Translation guide
The idea that the group's needs are more important than individual desires. In Japanese, this is often expressed through terms for group harmony, prioritizing the collective, or specific cultural concepts like 集団主義.
To refer to the ideology or practice where the group (society, community, organization) takes precedence over the individual.
The most direct translation for 'collectivism' as a political or social philosophy. Commonly used in academic or formal contexts.
日本は集団主義の国だと言われることがある。
Japan is sometimes said to be a collectivist country.
Often translated as 'totalitarianism', but can overlap with extreme collectivism where the state or group controls all aspects of life. Use with caution as it carries negative connotations.
全体主義的な社会では個人の自由が制限される。
In a totalitarian society, individual freedom is restricted.
Literally 'group emphasis'. A more neutral, descriptive term often used in discussions of cultural values.
この会社は集団重視の文化を持っている。
This company has a culture that emphasizes the group.
To express the Japanese cultural ideal of maintaining group harmony, often contrasted with Western individualism.
A core Japanese concept meaning harmony, peace, and unity within a group. It implies collectivism through consensus and avoiding conflict.
和を大切にするのが日本の伝統だ。
Valuing harmony is a Japanese tradition.
A verb phrase meaning 'to respect harmony' or 'to prioritize group harmony'. Often used to describe collectivist behavior.
彼はいつも和を重んじて行動する。
He always acts with an emphasis on group harmony.
Cooperativeness; the quality of working well with others. Often used in contexts like job interviews to describe a collectivist mindset.
To describe actions or attitudes where an individual sacrifices personal interests for the sake of the group.
A clear, natural way to say 'prioritize the group over oneself'. Useful for explaining collectivist behavior.
彼女は自分より集団を優先するタイプだ。
She's the type who puts the group before herself.
A somewhat old-fashioned term meaning 'selfless devotion to public duty'. It embodies extreme collectivism but is rarely used in modern daily conversation.
滅私奉公の精神が戦時中は強調された。
The spirit of selfless devotion to the nation was emphasized during wartime.
Directly saying 'collectivism' (集団主義) in everyday conversation can sound academic or stiff. Instead, describe the behavior or value, such as 'putting the group first' or 'valuing harmony'.
彼は周りとの調和を大事にする。
He values harmony with those around him.
集団主義 is a formal term for collectivism as a concept, while 和 is a cultural ideal of harmony. Use 集団主義 for academic discussions, and 和 or related phrases when talking about Japanese cultural values.
協調性がある人はチームで働くのに向いている。
People with cooperativeness are suited for working in teams.