Translation guide
The English word 'government' can refer to the ruling body, the act of governing, or the system of rule. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 政府 (seifu) for the executive branch, but other terms like 行政府 (gyōseifu), 政権 (seiken), and 統治 (tōchi) are used depending on context. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression.
Referring to the central administrative body that runs a country, especially the cabinet and ministries.
The standard word for 'government' as the executive branch. Used in news, formal, and everyday contexts.
日本政府は新しい政策を発表した。
The Japanese government announced a new policy.
政府の対応が遅すぎる。
The government's response is too slow.
Specifically the administrative/executive branch, often used in political science or legal contexts to distinguish from the legislature or judiciary.
Referring to a particular group in power, often with a focus on political leadership or a specific period.
Referring to governance, rule, or the process of governing a country or organization.
Governance, rule, or administration. Often used in historical or formal contexts, or when discussing how a country is run.
Distinguishing the central/national government from regional or local authorities.
Referring to the academic discipline or the concept of government in political science.
政府 (seifu) is the executive branch, the cabinet and ministries. 政権 (seiken) is the political power or administration, often used when discussing who holds power. 統治 (tōchi) is the act or system of governing, more abstract and formal.
In phrases like 'government policy', 政府の政策 is fine, but 'government intervention' might be 行政介入 (gyōsei kainyū) or 国家介入 (kokka kainyū) depending on nuance. 'Government' as a concept is often 政治 (seiji) or 行政 (gyōsei).
社会における政府の役割。
The role of government in society.
政府支出が増加した。
Government spending has increased.
行政府の権限が拡大している。
The power of the executive branch is expanding.
Refers to a political administration or regime. Commonly used when talking about a change of government or the party in power.
新政権は経済改革を約束した。
The new government promised economic reforms.
政権交代が起こった。
A change of government occurred.
The ruling party; specifically the political party that holds power.
政権党は過半数を維持した。
The ruling party maintained its majority.
民主的な統治が求められている。
Democratic governance is demanded.
その国は長い間、独裁的な統治下にあった。
That country was under dictatorial rule for a long time.
Politics or political administration. While broader than 'government', it is often used in contexts like 'government policy' or 'government affairs'.
政治 is broader than 'government' and can mean 'politics' in general. Use 政府 for the specific institution.
彼は政治に関心がある。
He is interested in government/politics.
Public administration, the executive functions of government. Often used in contexts like 'government services' or 'administrative reform'.
行政改革が必要だ。
Government/administrative reform is necessary.
行政サービスを改善する。
Improve government services.
Central government, explicitly contrasting with local government.
中央政府と地方政府の関係。
The relationship between central and local government.
Literally 'country', but often used to mean the national government in contexts like 'the state' or 'national budget'.
国 can be ambiguous; it may mean 'country' or 'nation'. Use 政府 when clarity is needed.
国が補助金を出す。
The government provides subsidies.
Political science; the study of government and political systems.
大学で政治学を専攻した。
I majored in government/political science at university.