43+ Japanese Construction Vocabulary

If you're on a construction site, dealing with construction materials, or discussing building projects with colleagues, this guide will introduce you to key construction-related terms, useful phrases, and essential vocabulary for construction roles and materials.

1. Basic Construction Terms

Here are some essential basic construction terms in Japanese:

• Construction – Kensetsu (建設)

• Building – Tatemono (建物)

• Blueprint – Sekkeizu (設計図)

• Contractor – Ukeoi Gyousha (請負業者)

• Labor – Roudou (労働)

• Tools – Dougu (道具)

2. Construction Materials

Familiarizing yourself with construction materials is crucial for understanding the construction process. Here are common materials used in Japanese construction:

• Concrete – Konkuri-to (コンクリート)

• Wood – Mokuzai (木材)

• Steel – Hagane (鋼)

• Brick – Renga (レンガ)

• Cement – Semento (セメント)

3. Construction Site Vocabulary

Here are some key terms for the construction site and its operations:

• Construction Site – Kensetsu Genba (建設現場)

• Excavation – Kassaku (掘削)

• Scaffolding – Ashiba (足場)

• Heavy Machinery – Juuki (重機)

• Excavator – Shoberu Ka- (ショベルカー)

• Cranes – Kure-n (クレーン)

4. Construction Processes and Actions

These are terms related to various construction processes and tasks:

• Foundation – Kiso (基礎)

• Framing – Wakugumi (枠組み)

• Plumbing – Haikan (配管)

• Electrical Work – Denki Kouji (電気工事)

• Roofing – Yane Kouji (屋根工事)

5. Jobs and Roles in Construction

Here are some of the key roles in the construction industry:

• Builder – Daiku (大工)

• Architect – Kenchikuka (建築家)

• Engineer – Gishi (技師)

• Project Manager – Purojekuto Manejā (プロジェクトマネージャー)

• Surveyor – Sokuryou-shi (測量士)

6. Safety and Regulations Terms

Safety is essential in construction. Here are the key terms related to safety and regulations:

• Safety Equipment – Anzen Setsubi (安全設備)

• Safety Regulations – Anzen Kisoku (安全規則)

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – Kojin Bougogu (個人防護具)

• Inspection – Kensa (検査)

7. Common Construction Phrases

Here are some useful phrases to help with communication on a construction site:

• "Where is the blueprint?" – 設計図はどこですか？ (Sekkeizu wa doko desu ka?)

• "We need more materials." – もっと材料が必要です (Motto zairyō ga hitsuyō desu)

• "Is the project on schedule?" – プロジェクトは予定通りですか？ (Purojekuto wa yotei dōri desu ka?)

• "Can you check the foundation?" – 基礎をチェックできますか？ (Kiso wo chekku dekimasu ka?)

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