1.
electron
A subatomic particle with a negative charge. Used in scientific contexts.
2.
electronic
When used as a prefix, means 'electronic' or 'digital'. Very common in modern Japanese for technology-related terms.
Usage: 電子 has two main uses: (1) the scientific term for electron, and (2) as a prefix meaning 'electronic' in compound words.
Compounds
- 電子メール (email - formal; shortened to メール)
- 電子レンジ (microwave oven)
- 電子マネー (electronic money)
- 電子辞書 (electronic dictionary)
- 電子機器 (electronic devices)
- 電子書籍 (e-book)
- 電子決済 (electronic payment)
- 電子音楽 (electronic music)