Translation guide
Describes a person, system, or attitude that demands strict obedience to authority, often at the expense of personal freedom. Japanese expressions range from direct translations to nuanced terms for personality, governance, and social dynamics.
To describe someone who is domineering, expects obedience, and suppresses individual freedom.
A direct translation meaning 'dictatorial' or 'authoritarian'. Used for people who impose their will unilaterally.
He is an authoritarian boss.
Means 'high-handed' or 'overbearing'. Emphasizes a coercive, oppressive manner.
Everyone rebelled against her authoritarian attitude.
Literally 'authoritarian' in a political or psychological sense. More formal and academic.
His parenting style is authoritarian.
Means 'tyrannical' or 'high-handed'. Stronger, implying abuse of power.
That department head is authoritarian and doesn't listen to his subordinates' opinions.
To describe a regime or political system that concentrates power and suppresses dissent.
Used for governments, meaning 'dictatorial' or 'authoritarian'.
That country is ruled by an authoritarian regime.
The standard term for 'authoritarian' in political science contexts.
Means 'totalitarian', a more extreme form of authoritarianism where the state controls all aspects of life.
To describe a way of thinking or acting that demands obedience and rejects input from others.
独裁的 (dictatorial) focuses on the concentration of power in one person or a small group, often with a negative connotation. 権威主義的 (authoritarian) is a broader, more academic term for systems that demand obedience to authority, not necessarily a single dictator.
The English phrase 'authoritarian personality' is a specific psychological concept. In Japanese, it is usually translated as 権威主義的パーソナリティ (けんいしゅぎてきぱーそなりてぃ) in academic contexts. In casual conversation, describe the traits instead.
In an authoritarian system, freedom of speech is restricted.
In a totalitarian state, there is almost no individual freedom.
Criticism mounted against the government's authoritarian response.