Translation guide
The English word 'community' covers a wide range of meanings, from a local neighborhood to a group sharing interests or identity. Japanese has several words that map to different aspects of 'community', and the best choice depends on the nuance.
Referring to the people and area where one lives, the local community.
Formal term for 'local community' or 'community' in a sociological sense. Often used in discussions about community development or social issues.
I want to contribute to the local community.
Refers to one's hometown or local area. Very common in casual and everyday speech. Can also mean 'local' as an adjective.
I volunteer in my local community.
Interact with the local people.
Loanword from English. Used for 'community' in many contexts, including local, online, or interest-based. Very common in modern Japanese.
The community in this area is very active.
A community of people with a common interest, hobby, profession, or identity, not necessarily tied to a location.
The most direct and common translation for 'community' in the sense of a group sharing interests or identity. Used for online communities, fan communities, etc.
Join an online community.
A more formal or philosophical term for 'community', emphasizing shared values, goals, or identity. Often used for intentional communities or historical groups.
Slang term for a specific scene, fandom, or subculture community. Often used online to refer to a niche group.
Referring to the broader community or society as a whole, often in contexts of social responsibility or public life.
General word for 'society' or 'community' in a broad sense. Used in phrases like 'community service' or 'giving back to the community'.
Contribute to the community/society.
Responsibility as a member of the community.
Refers to 'the world' or 'society' in the sense of public opinion or the people around you. Often used when talking about what others think.
The feeling of belonging, togetherness, or shared spirit within a group.
Sense of solidarity or togetherness. Often used in contexts of mutual support.
Strengthen the sense of community in the area.
Literally 'community consciousness'. A more formal term for the awareness of being part of a community.
The sense of community is fading.
Casual, somewhat coined term meaning 'community feeling'. Used in marketing or casual talk about group atmosphere.
This event has a nice sense of community, doesn't it?
Referring to a defined community such as the scientific community, business community, or international community.
コミュニティ is a flexible loanword that covers many senses of 'community', especially interest-based or online groups. 社会 is broader, meaning 'society' as a whole. 地域社会 is specifically the local geographic community. Use コミュニティ when in doubt for non-geographic groups.
共同体 can sound overly formal or ideological. It's often associated with communes, utopian communities, or academic discussions. For everyday 'community', コミュニティ or 地元 are safer choices.
The game's community has grown.
They formed a small community.
その界隈では有名な人だ。
He's famous in that community/scene.
Worry about what the community/others think.
Specifically 'international community'. Used in news and diplomatic contexts.
As a member of the international community.