Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'biography' is expressed through several words that differ in formality, length, and context. The most common and neutral term is 伝記 (でんき), used for published life stories. For a person's life history in a broader sense, 経歴 (けいれき) is used, often in professional contexts. A more formal or literary term is 伝 (でん), often part of titles. For an autobiographical account, 自伝 (じでん) is used. In casual contexts, 一代記 (いちだいき) can refer to a full-life story.
A written account of someone's life, usually a book or article.
The standard, neutral word for a biography. Used for published works about historical figures, celebrities, etc.
彼はアインシュタインの伝記を読んでいる。
He is reading a biography of Einstein.
この伝記はとても詳しく書かれている。
This biography is written in great detail.
A more formal or literary term, often used in book titles or as a suffix. Implies a classic or scholarly biography.
『福沢諭吉伝』を読んだことがありますか。
Have you ever read 'The Biography of Fukuzawa Yukichi'?
Literally 'one-generation record'. Refers to a full-life biography, often with a narrative or dramatic tone. Less common in everyday speech.
彼の波乱万丈の一代記が映画化された。
His turbulent life story was made into a movie.
A person's life story or professional background, often in a resume, introduction, or obituary.
Refers to one's personal history, career, or background. Used in professional contexts, resumes, and formal introductions.
彼の経歴は非常にユニークだ。
His background is very unique.
履歴書に経歴を詳しく書いてください。
Please write your personal history in detail on your resume.
A brief biography or abbreviated personal history. Common in programs, conference materials, or short introductions.
A biography written by the subject themselves.
The standard word for autobiography. Used for books where the author writes about their own life.
彼女は自伝を出版した。
She published her autobiography.
A more literary or formal term for autobiography. Less common than 自伝.
伝記 is a published biography, while 経歴 refers to a person's life or career history, often in a resume or introduction. Use 経歴 when talking about someone's background, not a book.
If you want to say 'write your biography' on a job application, use 経歴 or 履歴 (りれき). 伝記 implies a published book.
講演者の略歴をプログラムに掲載します。
We will include the speaker's brief biography in the program.
彼の自叙伝は多くの読者を感動させた。
His autobiography moved many readers.