Translation guide
The pursuit of pleasure as the highest good. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through philosophical terms, lifestyle descriptions, and related ideas of indulgence.
The ethical theory that pleasure is the highest good and proper aim of human life.
Standard term for hedonism as a philosophical or ethical stance. Literally 'pleasure-ism'.
A way of life devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasures and self-indulgence.
The view that human behavior is ultimately motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain.
Explicit term for psychological hedonism, used in academic psychology or philosophy.
心理的快楽主義は人間の行動原理を説明しようとする。
Psychological hedonism attempts to explain the principles of human behavior.
快楽主義 (hedonism) is the broader term for pleasure-seeking as a philosophy or lifestyle. 享楽主義 leans more toward enjoyment of luxury and sensual pleasures, often with a nuance of self-indulgence. In many contexts they overlap, but 快楽主義 is the safer direct translation for 'hedonism'.
Avoid directly translating 'hedonism' as ヘドニズム. While the loanword exists, it is rare and may not be understood. Use 快楽主義 instead.
彼は快楽主義の哲学を信奉している。
He adheres to the philosophy of hedonism.
Refers specifically to the doctrine or theory of hedonism, often in academic or historical contexts.
古代ギリシャの快楽説について議論した。
We discussed the hedonistic doctrines of ancient Greece.
Epicureanism, a specific school of hedonism emphasizing modest pleasures and absence of pain. Used in philosophical contexts.
エピクロス主義は精神的な快楽を重視する。
Epicureanism emphasizes mental pleasures.
Also used for the lifestyle, not just the philosophy. Can carry a slightly negative nuance of self-indulgence.
彼の快楽主義的な生活は破滅を招いた。
His hedonistic lifestyle led to ruin.
To pursue pleasure; a descriptive phrase rather than a label.
彼女は快楽を追求する人生を選んだ。
She chose a life of pursuing pleasure.
Similar to 快楽主義 but often emphasizes enjoyment and luxury. Can be used for a hedonistic lifestyle.
享楽主義に浸る若者たち。
Young people indulging in hedonism.