Translation guide
The Meiji Restoration (明治維新) was a pivotal event in Japanese history, marking the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the restoration of imperial rule in 1868. This entry explains how to refer to it in Japanese, including its full name, common abbreviations, and related terms.
Referring to the Meiji Restoration as a historical period or event.
The standard term for the Meiji Restoration. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
明治維新は1868年に始まりました。
The Meiji Restoration began in 1868.
明治維新によって日本は近代化しました。
Japan modernized as a result of the Meiji Restoration.
An abbreviation often used in compound terms or when the context is clear. Can also refer to 'restoration' or 'reform' in general.
維新の志士たちは新しい時代を切り開いた。
The patriots of the Restoration pioneered a new era.
Means 'around the time of the Meiji Restoration'. Useful for setting historical context.
明治維新の頃、多くの武士が職を失った。
Around the time of the Meiji Restoration, many samurai lost their jobs.
Referring to the era of rapid modernization and Westernization following the Restoration.
The Meiji period (1868–1912). Often used when discussing the cultural, social, or technological changes of the era.
明治時代に西洋の技術が急速に導入された。
Western technology was rapidly introduced during the Meiji period.
Using 'Meiji Restoration' metaphorically to describe a dramatic reform or revival.
A metaphorical phrase meaning 'a restoration of the Heisei era', used to describe major reforms in recent times.
彼は「平成の維新」を掲げて政治改革を訴えた。
He advocated political reform under the banner of a 'Heisei Restoration'.
While 維新 (いしん) can be used alone, it is often part of a compound or clear from context. In isolation, it may be ambiguous, as it can also refer to other restorations or reforms.
Literally 'civilization and enlightenment', a slogan of the Meiji era referring to Westernization and modernization.
文明開化の波が日本中に広がった。
The wave of civilization and enlightenment spread throughout Japan.