Translation guide
The English word "coup" most often refers to a sudden, illegal seizure of power from a government (coup d'état). This guide covers how to express that concept in Japanese, as well as related figurative uses.
To refer to a sudden, violent, or illegal seizure of power from a government.
The most common and direct translation, borrowed from French. Used in news and everyday conversation.
To describe a sudden, clever, and highly successful move, especially in business, politics, or personal achievement.
クーデター is the standard term for a coup d'état and is widely understood. 政変 is more formal and can refer to any sudden political change, not necessarily illegal or violent. In news reports, クーデター is more common.
クーデターが起きた。
A coup occurred.
政変により政権が交代した。
The regime changed due to a political upheaval.
In English, 'coup' can mean a clever success. Do not use クーデター for this meaning; it only refers to a violent overthrow. Use words like 大成功 or 大手柄 instead.
クーデター未遂は失敗した。
The coup attempt failed.
あの顧客を獲得したのは、会社にとって大手柄だった。
Landing that client was a major coup for the firm.
軍がクーデターを起こした。
The military staged a coup.
クーデター未遂で逮捕された。
He was arrested for an attempted coup.
A more formal or written term meaning 'political change' or 'coup'. Often used in historical or analytical contexts.
1936年の政変で政府が倒れた。
The government fell in the 1936 coup.
An abbreviation of クーデター, used in casual or slang contexts, often in compounds.
あの国でまたクーがあったらしい。
Apparently there was another coup in that country.
Means 'great success' or 'big hit'. Often used when someone pulls off a remarkable achievement.
彼の新作は大成功だった。
His new work was a real coup.
Means 'great feat' or 'brilliant achievement'. Implies a personal triumph or a clever move that brings acclaim.
ライバル会社から社長を引き抜いたのは大手柄だ。
Poaching the president from a rival company was a real coup.
Means 'brilliant achievement' or 'splendid feat'. Often used in sports or public accomplishments.
弱小チームの優勝は快挙だ。
The underdog team's victory is a real coup.
An exclamation meaning 'I did it!' or 'I pulled it off!'. Used when someone successfully executes a clever plan.
してやったり！契約取れたよ。
What a coup! I got the contract.