Translation guide
Describes a person, system, or attitude that demands strict obedience to authority, often at the expense of personal freedom. Japanese expressions range from direct translations to nuanced terms for personality, governance, and social dynamics.
To describe someone who is domineering, expects obedience, and suppresses individual freedom.
A direct translation meaning 'dictatorial' or 'authoritarian'. Used for people who impose their will unilaterally.
彼は独裁的な上司だ。
He is an authoritarian boss.
Means 'high-handed' or 'overbearing'. Emphasizes a coercive, oppressive manner.
彼女の高圧的な態度に皆が反発した。
Everyone rebelled against her authoritarian attitude.
Literally 'authoritarian' in a political or psychological sense. More formal and academic.
彼の子育ては権威主義的だ。
His parenting style is authoritarian.
Means 'tyrannical' or 'high-handed'. Stronger, implying abuse of power.
あの部長は横暴で、部下の意見を聞かない。
That department head is authoritarian and doesn't listen to his subordinates' opinions.
To describe a regime or political system that concentrates power and suppresses dissent.
Used for governments, meaning 'dictatorial' or 'authoritarian'.
その国は独裁的な政権に支配されている。
That country is ruled by an authoritarian regime.
The standard term for 'authoritarian' in political science contexts.
権威主義的な体制では、言論の自由が制限される。
In an authoritarian system, freedom of speech is restricted.
Means 'totalitarian', a more extreme form of authoritarianism where the state controls all aspects of life.
全体主義的な国家では、個人の自由はほとんどない。
In a totalitarian state, there is almost no individual freedom.
To describe a way of thinking or acting that demands obedience and rejects input from others.
Means 'self-righteous' or 'dogmatic'. Implies an authoritarian attitude that one's own way is the only correct way.
彼の独善的なやり方にチームはうんざりしている。
The team is fed up with his authoritarian approach.
Means 'authoritarian' in the sense of using strong-arm tactics or coercive power.
政府の強権的な対応に批判が集まった。
Criticism mounted against the government's authoritarian response.
独裁的 (dictatorial) focuses on the concentration of power in one person or a small group, often with a negative connotation. 権威主義的 (authoritarian) is a broader, more academic term for systems that demand obedience to authority, not necessarily a single dictator.
The English phrase 'authoritarian personality' is a specific psychological concept. In Japanese, it is usually translated as 権威主義的パーソナリティ (けんいしゅぎてきぱーそなりてぃ) in academic contexts. In casual conversation, describe the traits instead.