比重

What it means

比重 means the relative heaviness or density of something when compared to a reference standard. In science this denotes the specific gravity—the ratio of a substance's density to water. In everyday or abstract use, it signals relative importance or weight given to something in a calculation or judgment.

Main meanings

• 1) Specific gravity: the density of a substance relative to water, used in physics and engineering to compare materials.
• 2) Relative importance: the weight or significance assigned to a factor in analysis or decision-making.

How to use it

Used in formal scientific writing, textbooks, and technical reports to denote measurable density or comparative significance. In casual or metaphorical contexts, 比重が高い (hijū ga takai) expresses that something carries more influence or priority; common constructions include 比重が高い (hijū ga takai), 比重を占める (hijū o shimeru), 比重を測る (hijū o hakaru).