Translation guide
A noble rank below duke and above count/earl. In Japanese contexts, use 侯爵 (こうしゃく). For foreign marquises, 侯爵 is also standard, but the title may be adapted or explained.
Referring to the title or rank of marquis in any context.
The standard Japanese word for the rank of marquis, used for both Japanese and foreign nobility.
彼は侯爵の位を授かった。
He was granted the title of marquis.
Talking about or to a person who holds the title of marquis.
Attach 侯爵 after the family name or full name, similar to 'Marquis [Name]' in English. For Japanese marquises, use the family name; for foreign ones, the family name or full name as appropriate.
山本侯爵は昨日到着された。
Marquis Yamamoto arrived yesterday.
ロッキンガム侯爵は18世紀の政治家だ。
Marquis of Rockingham was an 18th-century politician.
Very formal and respectful form of address, equivalent to 'Your Excellency' or 'His/Her Excellency the Marquis'. Used in official or diplomatic contexts.
侯爵閣下、ようこそお越しくださいました。
Your Excellency the Marquis, welcome.
Referring specifically to a marquis within the Japanese kazoku peerage system (1869–1947).
The same word is used for the Japanese peerage rank. Often appears in historical contexts.
明治時代、多くの侯爵家が設立された。
During the Meiji era, many marquis families were established.
For European marquises, 侯爵 is used, but sometimes the original title is kept in katakana (e.g., マーキス) in less formal contexts or when explaining the foreign system. However, 侯爵 is the proper equivalent.
侯爵 (marquis) is distinct from 公爵 (duke) and 伯爵 (count/earl). Make sure to use the correct rank.