Translation guide
The term 'foreign policy' refers to a government's strategy in dealing with other nations. In Japanese, it is most commonly expressed as 外交政策 (がいこうせいさく). This guide covers the standard term, related expressions, and usage in different contexts.
外交政策
foreign policy
The overall strategy and principles guiding a country's interactions with other nations.
The standard, neutral term for 'foreign policy'. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
日本の外交政策は平和主義に基づいている。
Japan's foreign policy is based on pacifism.
新しい大統領は外交政策の転換を約束した。
The new president promised a shift in foreign policy.
Literally 'external policy', often used interchangeably with 外交政策, but can have a slightly broader sense including economic and cultural relations.
政府は対外政策の見直しを進めている。
The government is reviewing its foreign policy.
Referring to the study or analysis of foreign policy.
Used in academic contexts to mean 'foreign policy theory' or 'study of foreign policy'.
彼は大学で外交政策論を教えている。
He teaches foreign policy studies at the university.
A named policy or doctrine, such as 'containment' or 'engagement'.
外交政策 (がいこうせいさく) is the most common term and focuses on diplomatic relations. 対外政策 (たいがいせいさく) is slightly broader, encompassing all external policies including economic and cultural ones. In most contexts, they are interchangeable, but 対外政策 is more formal and often used in written documents.