Translation guide
For the country, use イギリス (Igirisu) in most contexts. 英国 (Eikoku) is more formal/literary. For the island of Great Britain, use グレートブリテン島 (Gurēto Buriten-tō).
Referring to the United Kingdom as a nation
The most common and neutral term for the United Kingdom. Used in everyday conversation, news, and official contexts.
Have you ever been to Britain?
Britain left the EU.
Formal/literary term, often used in written language, official names, or compound words. Can sound stiff in casual speech.
The British government announced a new policy.
Literal translation of 'United Kingdom'. Rarely used outside very formal or explanatory contexts.
the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Referring specifically to the island containing England, Scotland, and Wales
Referring to a person or people from Britain
Describing something as British
Use の to make the noun イギリス into an adjective. Most common way to say 'British'.
I'm interested in British culture.
Formal/literary adjective form, often used in compound nouns.
an English-style garden
Abbreviation used in compounds like 英文学 (English literature) or 英会話 (English conversation). Note: often refers specifically to England/English, not the whole UK.
In Japanese, イギリス usually refers to the United Kingdom as a whole, not just England. However, イギリス is sometimes used loosely to mean England, especially in contexts like language (イギリス英語 = British English, often meaning English English). To be precise about England, use イングランド. For the English language, 英語 (えいご) is standard.
England is part of Britain.
イギリス is the everyday term; 英国 is more formal and often used in official names (英国大使館 = British Embassy). In casual conversation, イギリス is preferred.
The Roman Empire conquered the island of Britain.
Many British people opposed Brexit.
I'm majoring in English literature.