Translation guide
An allegory is a story, poem, or picture that can be interpreted to reveal a hidden meaning, typically a moral or political one. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 寓話 (ぐうわ), but other terms like 寓意 (ぐうい) and 比喩 (ひゆ) are used depending on context.
To refer to a narrative that uses characters and events to symbolize deeper ideas, such as moral or political messages.
The most common and direct translation for 'allegory' as a story. It refers to a short tale that illustrates a moral or lesson, often using animals or mythical elements.
イソップ寓話は有名な寓話集です。
Aesop's Fables is a famous collection of allegories.
この寓話は人間の愚かさを風刺している。
This allegory satirizes human folly.
A more explicit term meaning 'allegorical tale,' often used in literary contexts.
中世の寓意物語には宗教的なテーマが多い。
Medieval allegorical tales often have religious themes.
The loanword from English, used in academic or artistic discussions, especially about Western literature.
この絵画はアレゴリーとして解釈できる。
This painting can be interpreted as an allegory.
To refer to the use of symbols or figurative elements to convey a deeper meaning, not necessarily a full story.
Refers to the allegorical meaning or symbolism itself, rather than the story. Often used in phrases like 寓意を込める (to imbue with allegory).
この詩には深い寓意が込められている。
This poem is imbued with deep allegory.
彼の作品は寓意に満ちている。
His works are full of allegory.
A broader term for metaphor or figurative language. Can be used for allegory when emphasizing the comparative aspect, but is less specific.
Means 'symbol' or 'symbolism.' Used when the allegory is conveyed through symbols rather than a narrative.
To describe the act or method of interpreting something allegorically.
The standard term for 'allegorical interpretation,' used in literary criticism and theology.
聖書の寓意的解釈は中世に盛んだった。
Allegorical interpretation of the Bible was prevalent in the Middle Ages.
A common phrase meaning 'to read the allegory' or 'to discern the hidden meaning.'
読者はこの物語から寓意を読み取ることができる。
Readers can discern the allegory from this story.
寓話 (ぐうわ) is the most common term for an allegorical story, like a fable. 寓意 (ぐうい) refers to the allegorical meaning or symbolism itself. アレゴリー is a loanword used mainly in academic contexts about Western allegory.
比喩 (ひゆ) is a general term for metaphor or figure of speech. Use it for allegory only when the context clearly involves extended symbolism. For a simple metaphor, use 隠喩 (いんゆ) or 直喩 (ちょくゆ).
その物語は善と悪の闘いの寓話です。
The story is an allegory for the struggle between good and evil.
彼はその絵の背後にある寓意を説明した。
He explained the allegory behind the painting.
This story can be read as an allegory of life.
この小説は社会の象徴的な寓話だ。
This novel is a symbolic allegory of society.