Translation guide
The practice of taking direct action to achieve political or social change. In Japanese, the concept is often expressed through specific terms for movements, activities, or the people involved, rather than a single direct equivalent.
Referring to activism in a broad sense, including organized efforts for social or political change.
The standard term for 'social movement' or 'activism' in a broad sense. It encompasses organized collective action for social change.
彼は環境保護の社会運動に参加している。
He is involved in environmental activism.
A general term for 'activity' or 'action'. When used in context, it can imply activism, especially with modifiers like 政治活動 (political activism) or 市民活動 (civic activism).
彼女は人権活動に力を入れている。
She is dedicated to human rights activism.
A direct loanword from English. It is understood but less common than native terms, and may sound academic or foreign.
若者の間でアクティビズムが広がっている。
Activism is spreading among young people.
Activism specifically aimed at influencing government policy or political change.
Directly translates to 'political activity' and is the most natural way to refer to political activism.
彼は学生時代から政治活動を続けている。
He has been involved in political activism since his student days.
Referring to a person who engages in activism.
The standard term for 'activist'. It can be used for various causes, e.g., 環境活動家 (environmental activist).
彼女は有名な人権活動家だ。
She is a famous human rights activist.
Similar to 活動家 but often implies involvement in a specific movement (運動). Slightly less common.
Activism carried out by students, often on campuses.
Specifically refers to student movements or student activism, historically significant in Japan.
1960年代には学生運動が盛んだった。
Student activism was active in the 1960s.
Activism conducted through social media or the internet.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'online activity/activism'. It is neutral and widely understood.
ネット上の活動が社会を変えることもある。
Online activism can sometimes change society.
Literally 'hashtag movement', used for campaigns like #MeToo. It is a modern term.
#MeTooは世界的なハッシュタグ運動になった。
#MeToo became a global hashtag activism movement.
The English word 'activism' is often used broadly, but in Japanese it is more natural to specify the type of activity or movement. Using アクティビズム may sound unnatural or overly academic in casual conversation.
活動 (activity) is a broader term that can refer to any kind of action, while 運動 (movement) implies a more organized, collective effort. Use 運動 when referring to a specific social or political movement.
Refers to 'citizens' movement' or grassroots activism, often with a political dimension.
その市民運動は法律の改正を求めた。
The citizens' movement demanded legal reform.
彼は労働運動家として知られている。
He is known as a labor activist.