Translation guide
The concept of 'moral principles' in Japanese is most commonly expressed through words like 道徳 (dōtoku) and 倫理 (rinri), which refer to societal ethics and personal morality. The choice depends on context: 道徳 is broader and more everyday, while 倫理 is often used in academic or professional settings. Other terms like 道義 (dōgi) and モラル (moraru) have more specific nuances.
Referring to standards of right and wrong that guide behavior in society or personal life.
The most common and general term for morality or moral principles. Used in everyday contexts, education, and discussions of right and wrong.
道徳を守ることは大切です。
It is important to uphold moral principles.
彼は道徳に反する行動をとった。
He acted against moral principles.
Refers to ethics, often in a more formal, philosophical, or professional sense. Common in academic, medical, or business contexts.
医療倫理は重要なテーマです。
Medical ethics is an important topic.
企業倫理を守るべきだ。
We should uphold corporate ethics.
Loanword from English 'moral', often used for personal or societal moral standards, sometimes with a nuance of common decency or public morals.
最近の若者はモラルが低いと言われる。
It is said that young people these days have low moral standards.
Emphasizing personal integrity, righteousness, or a principled way of living.
Moral duty or righteousness, often used in contexts of social responsibility or ethical obligation. More formal and less common than 道徳.
道義的責任を感じる。
I feel a moral responsibility.
Constancy or integrity in adhering to one's principles. Often used in the negative to describe someone who easily compromises their morals.
Referring to an internal sense of right and wrong that guides decisions.
Conscience; the inner sense of what is right. Often used when talking about guilt or moral judgment.
良心に従って行動した。
I acted according to my conscience.
良心の呵責を感じる。
I feel pangs of conscience.
Judgment of right and wrong; the ability to distinguish good from evil. Used when discussing moral reasoning.
子供に善悪の判断を教える。
Teach children to distinguish right from wrong.
道徳 (dōtoku) is the general term for morality in daily life, while 倫理 (rinri) is more formal and often used in professional or academic ethics. For example, school education focuses on 道徳, but medical ethics is 医療倫理 (iryō rinri).
Direct translations like 道徳的原理 (dōtoku-teki genri) are unnatural and overly literal. Use the single words 道徳 or 倫理 instead, or rephrase based on context.
彼は節操がない。
He has no principles.