Translation guide
A guideline is a general rule, principle, or piece of advice that helps you decide how to act or what to do. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 指針 (ししん), but other words like ガイドライン, 基準, and 方針 are used depending on whether it's an official standard, a policy, or a practical tip.
A broad recommendation or principle that guides decisions or behavior, often in official or organizational contexts.
The most direct and common translation for 'guideline' as a guiding principle or policy. Used in business, government, and formal settings.
新しい指針に従って行動してください。
Please act in accordance with the new guidelines.
この指針は全社員に適用されます。
These guidelines apply to all employees.
A loanword from English, commonly used for official or written guidelines, especially in technical, medical, or international contexts. Slightly more concrete than 指針.
このガイドラインに沿って作業を進めてください。
Please proceed with the work according to these guidelines.
Means 'standard' or 'criterion'. Used when the guideline serves as a benchmark or measurable standard.
安全基準を満たす必要があります。
You must meet the safety guidelines.
A guideline that sets a direction or policy for an organization or plan.
Refers to a policy, course, or basic direction. Often used in business or management contexts.
経営方針を明確にしてください。
Please clarify the management guidelines.
Also used for policy guidelines, but 方針 emphasizes the chosen direction more strongly.
A guideline that is more like a helpful suggestion or rule of thumb, not an official rule.
Means a rough standard or yardstick. Used for non-binding guidelines, like a recommended amount or approximate target.
一日の水分摂取の目安は2リットルです。
The guideline for daily water intake is 2 liters.
A guide or manual. Used for step-by-step guidelines or instructions.
指針 is a general guiding principle, often abstract. ガイドライン is more concrete and often written, like a document. 方針 is a policy or direction set by an organization. Use 指針 for most general contexts, ガイドライン for specific documented rules, and 方針 for strategic policies.
Follow the government's guidelines.
Please follow this guideline to set it up.