Translation guide
The English word 'ruling' can refer to an official decision by a court or authority, or to the act of governing. This guide focuses on the most common meaning for learners: an official decision or judgment.
Expressing an official decision made by a court, judge, or authority
The most common and general term for a court ruling or judgment. Used in legal contexts.
裁判所は被告に無罪の判決を下した。
The court handed down a ruling of not guilty for the defendant.
最高裁の判決が注目されている。
The Supreme Court ruling is attracting attention.
Often used for rulings in arbitration, administrative decisions, or formal determinations by an authority. Slightly more formal than 判決.
仲裁人が下した裁定に従います。
We will comply with the ruling issued by the arbitrator.
A general term for 'decision' that can be used for official rulings, especially in non-court contexts like government agencies or committees.
委員会の決定は最終です。
The committee's ruling is final.
Means 'judgment' or 'decision'. Can be used for a ruling in a broad sense, but less specific to legal contexts. Often implies a personal or expert judgment.
裁判官の判断を待つしかない。
We can only wait for the judge's ruling.
Referring to the exercise of authority or governance
Refers to rule, control, or domination. Often used for political or social control.
その国は独裁者の支配下にある。
The country is under the ruling of a dictator.
Refers to governance or administration, often in a formal or political sense. Implies ruling over a territory.
判決 is specifically a court judgment. 裁定 is used for arbitration or administrative rulings. 決定 is a general decision that can be used for official rulings by committees or agencies.
English often uses 'ruling' as a noun (e.g., 'the court's ruling'). In Japanese, use the noun forms above. Do not try to directly translate the -ing form.
裁判官の判決は意外だった。
The judge's ruling was unexpected.
最終的な裁定を待っています。
We are waiting for the final ruling.
British ruling of India lasted a long time.