Translation guide
The Meiji Restoration (明治維新) was a pivotal event in Japanese history, marking the end of the Tokugawa shogunate and the restoration of imperial rule in 1868. This entry explains how to refer to it in Japanese, including its full name, common abbreviations, and related terms.
Referring to the Meiji Restoration as a historical period or event.
The standard term for the Meiji Restoration. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
The Meiji Restoration began in 1868.
Japan modernized as a result of the Meiji Restoration.
An abbreviation often used in compound terms or when the context is clear. Can also refer to 'restoration' or 'reform' in general.
The patriots of the Restoration pioneered a new era.
Means 'around the time of the Meiji Restoration'. Useful for setting historical context.
Around the time of the Meiji Restoration, many samurai lost their jobs.
Referring to the era of rapid modernization and Westernization following the Restoration.
Using 'Meiji Restoration' metaphorically to describe a dramatic reform or revival.
A metaphorical phrase meaning 'a restoration of the Heisei era', used to describe major reforms in recent times.
He advocated political reform under the banner of a 'Heisei Restoration'.
While 維新 (いしん) can be used alone, it is often part of a compound or clear from context. In isolation, it may be ambiguous, as it can also refer to other restorations or reforms.
Literally 'civilization and enlightenment', a slogan of the Meiji era referring to Westernization and modernization.
The wave of civilization and enlightenment spread throughout Japan.