過程
かてい
katei
Focuses on the chronological flow or the series of stages that lead from a starting point to a final result. It emphasizes the transition and the passage of time or state.
Often contrasted with 結果 (kekka - result). In educational or philosophical contexts, the phrase 過程を重視する (valuing the process) is common, suggesting that the effort and experience gained during the journey are as important as the outcome.
While similar to 手順 (tejun - procedure), there is a distinct difference in focus. 手順 refers to the specific, step-by-step instructions or the order of operations (the "how-to"), whereas 過程 refers to the overall progression or the historical sequence of events (the "journey").
In modern business or technical contexts, the loanword プロセス (purosesu) is frequently used interchangeably with 過程, but プロセス often carries a more systemic or industrial nuance, such as in "business process" or "CPU process."
Meanings
The series of actions, steps, or stages taken to achieve a particular end or result.
過程をたどる。
Trace the process.
Examples
There were many difficulties in the development process of the new product.
この薬が体に吸収される過程は非常に複雑です。
The process by which this medicine is absorbed into the body is very complex.
今の制作過程を説明するので少し聞いてください。
Please listen for a moment as I explain the current production process.
思考の過程を紙に書き出すと頭が整理される。
Writing down the thought process on paper helps organize the mind.
成功するまでの過程が何よりの財産になる。
The process leading up to success becomes the greatest asset of all.