Translation guide
The study of how celestial bodies influence human affairs. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 占星術, but the broader term 占い covers fortune-telling in general. Distinguish from 天文学 (astronomy).
Referring to the practice or field of astrology, such as Western or Chinese astrology.
The standard term for astrology as a system, especially Western astrology. Used in formal and casual contexts.
She is studying astrology.
In astrology, zodiac signs are thought to influence personality.
Literally 'star fortune-telling'. More casual and commonly used in daily conversation, often referring to horoscopes.
Did you check today's horoscope?
Loanword from English. Used in some contexts, but less common than native terms.
He is knowledgeable about astrology.
When 'astrology' is used loosely to mean fortune-telling or divination, not specifically star-based.
General term for fortune-telling, including astrology, palm reading, tarot, etc. Use this when the specific method isn't important.
Do you believe in astrology/fortune-telling?
Referring to a specific astrological forecast, like in a newspaper or app.
Referring to the 12-animal zodiac system (rat, ox, etc.) often associated with years.
The Chinese zodiac signs. Often used in New Year contexts and personality descriptions.
Next year's zodiac sign is the dragon.
Chinese zodiac astrology can tell you about compatibility.
The twelve earthly branches, more formal term for the zodiac animals.
Clarifying the difference between astrology and astronomy, as the English word 'astrology' is sometimes confused.
In Japanese, these are distinct words. Use 天文学 for the scientific study of celestial objects.
Astrology is not science; astronomy is science.
The English word 'astrology' is sometimes mistakenly used for 'astronomy'. In Japanese, 天文学 (てんもんがく) is astronomy, a natural science. 占星術 is astrology, a form of divination.
If you're unsure whether to use 占星術 or a more specific term, 占い is a safe, general word for fortune-telling that includes astrology. It's widely understood and natural in conversation.
He predicts the future through astrology.
You need the date of birth to create a horoscope.
十二支は中国から伝わった。
The twelve zodiac signs were introduced from China.