Translation guide
The concept of aristocracy can refer to a social class, a system of government, or the quality of being noble. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the nuance.
Referring to the group of people who hold noble titles and high social status, especially in historical contexts.
The most common and general term for the nobility as a social class. Can be used for any country's aristocracy.
彼は貴族の出身だ。
He comes from the aristocracy.
イギリスの貴族は今でも一定の影響力を持っている。
The British aristocracy still holds some influence.
Specifically refers to the Japanese peerage system (kazoku) that existed from 1869 to 1947. Use only in Japanese historical context.
華族制度は戦後に廃止された。
The kazoku peerage system was abolished after the war.
A form of government where power is held by the nobility.
Literally 'aristocratic government'. The standard term for aristocracy as a political system.
古代ローマでは貴族政治が行われていた。
In ancient Rome, aristocracy was practiced.
Oligarchy, rule by a few. Sometimes used when the ruling class is not necessarily hereditary nobility but a small elite.
The abstract quality of excellence, refinement, or moral superiority associated with the aristocracy.
Elegance, grace, refinement. Often used to describe a person's demeanor or atmosphere.
彼女には生まれながらの気品がある。
She has a natural aristocracy about her.
Nobility, loftiness. Can refer to character or birth.
彼の振る舞いには高貴さが感じられる。
There is an aristocracy in his manner.
Aristocratic (adjective). Describes something characteristic of the aristocracy, often implying elegance or exclusivity.
When describing a person's noble bearing, do not directly translate 'aristocracy' as 貴族. Use 気品 or 高貴さ instead. Saying 彼は貴族がある is incorrect.
彼は気品がある。
He has an air of aristocracy.
その国は事実上、寡頭政治だ。
That country is effectively an aristocracy/oligarchy.
そのホテルは貴族的な雰囲気だ。
The hotel has an aristocratic atmosphere.