Translation guide
The English suffix '-ism' forms nouns meaning a doctrine, system, movement, or characteristic quality. In Japanese, it is most commonly expressed with the suffix 主義 (しゅぎ) for doctrines and systems, but other patterns exist depending on the nuance.
Expressing a named ideology, philosophy, or organized movement (e.g., capitalism, Buddhism, feminism).
The standard suffix for '-ism' when referring to a doctrine, principle, or systematic belief. Attaches to nouns, often of Chinese origin (kango).
Capitalism has spread throughout the world.
He is a vegetarian.
Used for religious '-isms' or teachings, especially established religions. Often translated as '-ism' in English but literally means 'teaching' or 'religion'.
Buddhism is widely practiced in Japan.
I went to a Christian church.
Used for theories, academic '-isms', or intellectual doctrines. Often corresponds to '-ism' in the sense of a theoretical framework.
The theory of relativity was proposed by Einstein.
He supports the theory of evolution.
A direct loan from English, used for certain modern or foreign concepts, often in casual or trendy contexts. Not as common as 主義.
Minimalism is popular lately.
Describing a distinctive practice, mannerism, or feature (e.g., witticism, truism, Americanism).
Often paraphrased rather than using a direct suffix. Use 〜的な (〜like) or 〜の特徴 (characteristic of) to describe the quality.
That's an Americanism.
His speech has a sarcastic quality (sarcasm).
For personal tendencies or habits, 趣味 (taste, hobby) or 癖 (habit) can capture the sense of an '-ism' as a personal style or quirk.
Referring to a pathological condition (e.g., alcoholism, rheumatism).
The standard medical suffix for '-ism' as a disease or condition. Attaches to nouns describing the ailment.
He is being treated for alcoholism.
Rheumatism causes pain in the joints.
Specifically for addictions or poisoning, such as alcoholism or narcotism. Literally 'poisoning'.
Alcoholism is a serious problem.
A word or expression characteristic of a language or style (e.g., colloquialism, archaism).
Use 語法 (usage, wording) or 的表現 (expression characteristic of) to describe a linguistic '-ism'.
This text contains many colloquialisms.
That's an archaism.
主義 is the most common translation, but it is not universal. For religions, use 教; for theories, use 論; for medical conditions, use 症. Using 主義 for these can sound unnatural or overly ideological.
Buddhism
theory of evolution
If no direct suffix fits, describe the concept using 〜の考え方 (way of thinking), 〜の傾向 (tendency), or 〜的な態度 (attitude). This is often more natural than forcing a suffix.
He has an individualistic taste.
That mannerism is his trademark.