Translation guide
The body of written works produced in the English language, often studied as an academic subject. In Japanese, the term can refer to the academic field, the literary works themselves, or the study of such works.
Referring to English literature as a discipline, major, or course of study.
The standard term for the academic study of English literature. Used for university departments, majors, and courses.
He is majoring in English literature at university.
Specifically refers to literature from the United Kingdom. Use when distinguishing from American or other English-language literatures.
A broader term encompassing literature from all English-speaking regions. More academic and less common in everyday conversation.
Referring to the actual books, poems, plays, etc., written in English.
Can also refer to the body of literary works themselves, not just the academic field. Context usually clarifies.
He has read many classics of English literature.
Explicitly refers to literary works written in English. Useful when you want to avoid ambiguity with the academic field.
Referring to the subject taught in Japanese high schools that covers English reading and sometimes literature.
In the Japanese high school curriculum, this subject focuses on English expression and comprehension, often using literary texts. Not a direct translation of 'English literature' but the closest equivalent in that context.
We read Shakespeare in our high school English class.
Another high school subject name that may include literature. The exact name varies by school and curriculum.
英文学 (えいぶんがく) generally refers to the study of literature in English, often including American and other Anglophone literatures. イギリス文学 (イギリスぶんがく) specifically means British literature. In many contexts, 英文学 is the default and more common term.
In the English literature department, you can also study American literature.
The direct loanword イングリッシュ文学 is not used. Always use 英文学 or イギリス文学.
I'm studying English literature at university.
She is an expert in English literature.
English literature classes are very interesting.
I'm researching the differences between British literature and American literature.
This lecture explores the diversity of Anglophone literature.
Reading English literary works in the original language is difficult.
The English Communication textbook includes short stories.