Translation guide
Theravada Buddhism is a major branch of Buddhism, often called the 'School of the Elders'. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as 上座部仏教 (Jōzabu Bukkyō), but other terms exist depending on context.
Theravada Buddhism is widely practiced in Southeast Asia.
A direct transliteration of 'Theravada' from Pali, sometimes used in academic or international contexts. Less common than 上座部仏教.
The teachings of Theravada Buddhism are based on the Pali Canon.
Referring to the historical early Buddhist schools, sometimes called 'Hinayana' in older texts, though that term is now often considered pejorative.
Referring to Theravada as the form of Buddhism prevalent in South and Southeast Asia.
Literally 'Southern Buddhism', this term emphasizes the geographical spread of Theravada in countries like Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Myanmar. Used in comparative religious studies.
Southern Buddhism spread from Sri Lanka to Southeast Asia.
The term 小乗仏教 (Hinayana) is considered derogatory by many Theravada Buddhists. Use 上座部仏教 or テーラワーダ仏教 instead unless discussing historical Mahayana views.
Literally 'Lesser Vehicle', this is an older term used historically in Mahayana contexts to refer to early Buddhist schools, including Theravada. It is now considered derogatory by many and is rarely used except in historical discussions.
This term can be offensive to Theravada Buddhists. Use only when discussing historical Mahayana perspectives.
Historically, Mahayana Buddhists sometimes referred to Theravada as Hinayana Buddhism.