Translation guide
The political and social philosophy favoring traditional institutions and gradual change. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 保守主義, but the concept also appears in political labels like 保守派 and in broader cultural attitudes like 保守的.
conservatism (political ideology)
conservative (attitude)
The political philosophy that emphasizes tradition, stability, and gradual change.
Standard term for political conservatism. Used in academic and formal contexts.
He takes a conservative stance.
Often used as a prefix or in compounds to mean 'conservative' in a political sense.
Refers to the conservative faction or wing within a group or political spectrum.
A tendency to resist change and prefer traditional ways, not necessarily political.
Adjectival noun meaning 'conservative' in attitude or approach. Can describe people, ideas, or cultures.
An economic stance favoring low taxes, reduced government spending, and minimal debt.
Emphasis on traditional social values and norms, often regarding family, religion, and morality.
保守 is a noun often used in compounds (保守政党 conservative party), while 保守的 is an adjectival noun describing a conservative quality (保守的な考え方 conservative way of thinking). Use 保守 for political entities and 保守的 for attitudes or characteristics.
In English, 'conservatism' often implies a political stance. In Japanese, 保守的 can simply mean cautious or traditional in non-political contexts, like a conservative estimate or dress style. Be aware of context to avoid over-politicizing.
His conservatism is well-known.
Political context
The conservative party won the election.
The conservative faction within the party is opposed.
He has a conservative way of thinking.
This company takes a conservative management approach.
Means 'traditional'. Often used when conservatism is about preserving customs rather than political ideology.
She holds traditional values.
He advocates fiscal conservatism.
Means 'austerity' or 'tight fiscal policy', often associated with fiscal conservatism.
The government implemented austerity measures.
That politician holds a social conservative position.
Describes the emphasis on traditional values, a key aspect of social conservatism.
His policies are based on an emphasis on traditional values.
彼女は投資に対して保守的なアプローチを取る。
She has a conservative approach to investing.
General cautious attitude