Translation guide
The act of formally giving up a position of power, especially a throne. In Japanese, the most common term is 退位 (たいい), specifically for an emperor or monarch. Other terms exist for resigning from non-royal positions or renouncing responsibilities.
To express the formal renunciation of a throne by a reigning monarch.
The standard term for abdication of a monarch, especially the Emperor of Japan. Used in formal and news contexts.
天皇が退位を表明した。
The Emperor expressed his intention to abdicate.
退位の儀式が行われた。
The abdication ceremony was held.
Literally 'yielding the throne'. Often used historically or in contexts emphasizing the transfer of the throne to a successor. Slightly more literary than 退位.
先帝は病気のため譲位した。
The previous emperor abdicated due to illness.
To express stepping down from a position of authority, such as a CEO, chairman, or political leader, often with a sense of formality.
General term for resignation from a position. Can be used for company presidents, prime ministers, etc. Not limited to royalty.
社長が辞任を発表した。
The company president announced his resignation.
首相の辞任が求められている。
The prime minister's resignation is being demanded.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'to step down' or 'withdraw'. Implies taking responsibility and leaving a position, often used in politics or business.
責任を取って身を引くべきだ。
He should take responsibility and step down.
To express giving up a role, duty, or responsibility, not necessarily a formal position.
Means 'abandonment' or 'renunciation'. Used for giving up rights, responsibilities, or duties. Can be used in contexts like 'abdication of responsibility'.
責任の放棄は許されない。
Abdication of responsibility is not acceptable.
Literally 'throw out', meaning to abandon or give up halfway. Often used for quitting a task or responsibility abruptly.
退位 (たいい) is specifically for monarchs abdicating the throne. 辞任 (じにん) is for resigning from any other position, like a job or political office. Using 退位 for a company president would be incorrect and sound strange.
The English word 'abdication' can be used figuratively (e.g., 'abdication of responsibility'). In Japanese, 退位 is never used figuratively. Use 放棄 (ほうき) or other terms for non-royal contexts.
国王の退位は国中に衝撃を与えた。
The king's abdication shocked the nation.
彼の親としての責任放棄が問題を引き起こした。
His abdication of parental duties led to problems.
He abandoned his work (abdicated his duties).