Translation guide
The practice of strict self-denial and discipline, often for spiritual reasons. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed through words related to training, discipline, and austerity.
The general concept of asceticism as a spiritual practice involving self-denial and rigorous discipline.
The most direct translation, meaning 'principle of self-denial'. It is a formal, somewhat academic term.
彼は禁欲主義を実践している。
He practices asceticism.
A shorter, more common term for 'abstinence' or 'self-denial', often used in contexts of giving up pleasures.
禁欲生活を送る。
To lead an ascetic life.
Refers to 'austerities' or 'penance', often physical hardships undertaken for spiritual growth. Common in Buddhist contexts.
僧侶は苦行を積む。
Monks undergo ascetic practices.
Describing a way of life that avoids luxury and comfort, often for moral or philosophical reasons.
Means 'simplicity' or 'frugality'. It emphasizes a plain, unadorned lifestyle without necessarily implying religious motivation.
彼は質素な生活を好む。
He prefers a simple, ascetic lifestyle.
A loanword from 'stoic', often used to describe a disciplined, self-controlled attitude. It can imply asceticism in a modern, secular sense.
Asceticism as a form of rigorous training, often physical or mental, to build character or achieve mastery.
Refers to 'training' or 'discipline', especially in martial arts, Buddhism, or self-improvement. It implies enduring hardship for growth.
山にこもって修行する。
To seclude oneself in the mountains for ascetic training.
Means 'forging' or 'tempering', used for rigorous physical or mental training. It can imply an ascetic dedication to improvement.
禁欲 (abstinence) focuses on denying desires. 質素 (simplicity) emphasizes a plain lifestyle. 修行 (training) involves disciplined practice, often with a spiritual goal. Choose based on whether you want to highlight self-denial, simplicity, or rigorous training.
彼女はストイックな生活をしている。
She lives a stoic, ascetic life.
日々の鍛錬を欠かさない。
He never misses his daily ascetic training.