Translation guide
In Japanese, 'the government' is most commonly expressed as 政府 (seifu) for the executive branch or administration, or 国 (kuni) for the state in a broader sense. The choice depends on context, formality, and whether you're referring to the ruling body, the nation as an authority, or specific agencies.
Referring to the ruling political body, the cabinet, or the administrative state.
The standard, neutral term for 'the government' as the executive branch. Used in news, formal contexts, and everyday speech.
政府は新しい政策を発表した。
The government announced a new policy.
政府の対応が遅い。
The government's response is slow.
Specifically the executive branch, as distinct from the legislature or judiciary. More formal and technical.
行政府の権限が拡大している。
The power of the executive branch is expanding.
Refers to the administration or regime in power, often with a political connotation. Used when discussing the ruling party or coalition.
現政権は支持率が低い。
The current administration has low approval ratings.
Referring to the country as a governing entity, often in legal, abstract, or patriotic contexts.
Commonly used to mean 'the state' or 'the nation' in contexts like 'the government provides...' or 'the government's responsibility'. More abstract than 政府.
国が医療費を負担する。
The government covers medical expenses.
国に守ってもらう。
To be protected by the government.
Formal term for 'the state' or 'nation', often used in legal, political, or philosophical discussions.
Referring to specific government bodies, ministries, or offices.
Use specific ministry/agency names. For example, 財務省 (Ministry of Finance), 国税庁 (National Tax Agency), 観光局 (Tourism Bureau).
環境省が新しい規制を導入した。
The Ministry of the Environment introduced new regulations.
General term for government offices or bureaucracy. Often used in news.
官庁街を歩く。
Walk through the government office district.
Referring to city, prefectural, or local government.
Refers to local government entities like cities, towns, and prefectures. Common in administrative contexts.
自治体によってルールが違う。
Rules differ depending on the local government.
政府 (seifu) refers specifically to the executive branch or cabinet. 国 (kuni) is broader, meaning the state or nation as a governing entity. Use 政府 for political decisions, policies, and the administration. Use 国 when talking about the government as a provider of services or as an abstract authority.
政府が決めたことだ。
It's something the government decided.
国が年金を支給する。
The government provides pensions.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often use 国 (kuni) or specific ministry names instead of 政府. Using 政府 in every context can sound overly formal or political.
National security is the top priority.
Explicitly 'local government', often used to distinguish from central government.
地方自治体の財政は厳しい。
Local government finances are tight.