Translation guide
The system or act of compelling people to serve in the military. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 徴兵制度 (conscription system) or 徴兵 (the draft).
Referring to the legal or institutional system of mandatory military service.
The standard term for the conscription system. Used in formal and general contexts.
In Japan, the conscription system was abolished after the war.
A shorter form of 徴兵制度, commonly used in news and conversation.
Some people advocate the revival of conscription.
Refers to the military service system in general, which may include conscription or voluntary service.
South Korea's military service system is based on conscription.
Referring to the process of calling people up for military service.
The act of conscription or the draft itself. Can be used as a noun or in compound verbs.
During the war, many young people were conscripted.
Passive form meaning 'to be conscripted' or 'to be drafted'. The most natural way to say someone is drafted.
To call up or mobilize, often used for reservists or in wartime. More formal.
The government called up the reservists.
Emphasizing the obligation aspect of conscription.
徴兵 (chōhei) specifically refers to conscription or the draft, while 兵役 (heieki) means military service in general, which can be voluntary or compulsory. Use 徴兵 when emphasizing the compulsory nature.
He fled abroad to evade conscription.
After completing his military service, he returned to university.
While 徴兵 is a direct equivalent, in many contexts it's more natural to use phrases like 徴兵制度 (conscription system) or 徴兵される (to be conscripted). Using 徴兵 alone can sound abrupt or technical.
He is supposed to be conscripted at age 18.
Compulsory military service is imposed in that country.