Translation guide
The process of choosing someone for a position by voting. In Japanese, the most common word is 選挙 (senkyo), but the appropriate term depends on the context, such as the type of election, the level of formality, or whether it's a general or specific election.
選挙
election
Referring to a public election for political office, such as national or local government positions.
The standard, all-purpose word for 'election'. Used for any voting process to choose representatives or leaders.
次の選挙は来年です。
The next election is next year.
彼は選挙に勝った。
He won the election.
Specifically a 'general election', often for the national parliament (e.g., House of Representatives).
総選挙が近づいている。
The general election is approaching.
A 'local election' for prefectural or municipal offices.
地方選挙の投票日は日曜日です。
The voting day for the local election is Sunday.
Choosing a person for a role within a company, club, association, etc., often by vote.
Also used for internal elections, such as for a club president or board member.
生徒会の選挙が行われた。
The student council election was held.
Refers to the act of 'electing' or 'selection', often used in formal contexts like committee appointments.
Focusing on the voting process or the event itself.
Literally 'voting' or 'ballot'. Often used when emphasizing the act of casting a vote rather than the overall election campaign.
投票は午後8時に締め切られます。
Voting closes at 8 p.m.
Election day.
The period or activities leading up to an election.
Election campaign activities, such as canvassing and rallies.
選挙運動が始まった。
The election campaign has begun.
Literally 'election battle', used to describe a competitive election race.
選挙 (senkyo) refers to the entire election process, while 投票 (tōhyō) specifically means 'voting' or 'casting a ballot'. Use 選挙 when talking about the event, and 投票 when focusing on the act of voting.
The English word 'election' can sometimes be used loosely for 'choice' or 'selection', but in Japanese, 選挙 is strictly for voting-based selection. For general selection, use 選択 (sentaku) or 選ぶ (erabu).
新会長の選出は来月です。
The election of the new chairperson is next month.
I'll take the day off on election day.
激しい選挙戦が繰り広げられた。
A fierce election battle unfolded.