Translation guide
The English word 'autonomous' refers to self-governance, independence, or operating without external control. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on whether you are talking about people, organizations, machines, or biological systems.
Describing a region, organization, or group that governs itself independently.
Refers to self-government or autonomy, especially in political or administrative contexts. Often used in compounds like 自治体 (local government).
その地域は自治を認められている。
That region is granted autonomy.
Emphasizes self-discipline and independence, often used for individuals or systems that regulate themselves.
彼は自律した人間だ。
He is an autonomous person.
Describing a person who acts according to their own values and decisions, not influenced by others.
Means voluntary or self-motivated. Often used for actions taken on one's own initiative.
彼女は自主的にそのプロジェクトを始めた。
She started the project autonomously.
Adjectival form of 自律, emphasizing self-regulation and independence.
Describing a machine, robot, or system that functions without human intervention.
Used for autonomous systems, especially in robotics and AI. Literally 'self-regulating type'.
このロボットは自律型です。
This robot is autonomous.
Means 'automatic'. While not a perfect match, it is often used for machines that operate on their own. For full autonomy, 自律型 is more precise.
自動運転車は自律的に走行する。
Self-driving cars operate autonomously.
Referring to the autonomic nervous system, which functions involuntarily.
The standard term for the autonomic nervous system.
自律神経が乱れている。
My autonomic nervous system is out of balance.
自治 (jichi) is for political/administrative self-governance. 自律 (jiritsu) is for self-regulation, often of individuals or systems. 自主 (jishu) emphasizes voluntary action and independence from external control. Choose based on context.
自律的な学習が大切だ。
Autonomous learning is important.