Translation guide
A member of a 16th–17th century English Protestant group seeking to purify the Church of England. In Japanese, the term is usually rendered as 清教徒 (せいきょうと) for the historical group, while the lowercase 'puritan' (a person with strict moral views) is expressed with words like 厳格主義者 (げんかくしゅぎしゃ) or 禁欲主義者 (きんよくしゅぎしゃ).
Referring to a member of the 16th–17th century English Protestant movement that sought to purify the Church of England.
Describing a person who is strict in moral or religious matters, often avoiding pleasures; can be used critically.
When calling someone a 'puritan' in the modern, often critical sense, directly using 清教徒 may confuse Japanese speakers because it strongly refers to the historical group. Use 厳格主義者 or 禁欲主義者 instead, or rephrase to describe the behavior.
The Puritans sailed to America on the Mayflower in 1620.
A direct loanword from English, used in some academic or popular contexts. Less common than 清教徒.
The Puritan faith valued hard work and abstinence.
He's a puritan who doesn't drink or smoke.
Literally 'abstinence principle person'. Emphasizes the denial of pleasures. Often used in philosophical or lifestyle contexts.
She's a puritan who never eats sweets.
The loanword can also be used for the modern sense, but may sound more like the historical group. Context usually clarifies.
He's like a modern-day puritan, rejecting all entertainment.
A colloquial term for a stiff, overly serious person who lacks flexibility, especially regarding morals or fun. Can imply puritanical attitudes.
That guy is such a puritan; he can't take a joke.