Translation guide
The English word 'constitution' can refer to a nation's fundamental legal document, the composition or makeup of something, or a person's physical health and vitality. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
The fundamental legal document of a country
The standard term for a national constitution. Used in legal, political, and everyday contexts.
日本国憲法は1947年に施行されました。
The Constitution of Japan came into effect in 1947.
憲法改正には国民投票が必要です。
A national referendum is required to amend the constitution.
A formal, somewhat archaic term for national constitution. Rarely used in modern conversation; mostly found in legal or historical texts.
国憲に違反する行為は許されない。
Acts that violate the national constitution are not permitted.
The way something is formed or structured, such as an organization, substance, or group
Refers to the composition, structure, or makeup of something. Commonly used for teams, committees, chemical compounds, etc.
委員会の構成を見直す必要がある。
We need to review the composition of the committee.
この合金の構成元素を分析した。
We analyzed the constituent elements of this alloy.
Emphasizes the physical or organizational structure, often implying a framework or system. Used for buildings, societies, sentences, etc.
Primarily used in scientific contexts for the chemical or material composition of substances.
A person's general physical condition, strength, or resilience
Refers to one's physical constitution or predisposition, often in terms of health, sensitivity, or tendency. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
私は太りやすい体質です。
I have a constitution that easily gains weight.
彼はアレルギー体質だ。
He has an allergic constitution.
Means physical strength or stamina. Often used when talking about one's energy or endurance rather than inherent predisposition.
A na-adjective meaning robust or healthy. Often used to describe a person's strong constitution or durable objects.
憲法 specifically refers to a nation's constitution. For the constitution of a club or organization, use 規約 (きやく) or 会則 (かいそく).
構成 focuses on the elements that make up something (members, parts), while 構造 emphasizes the arrangement or framework. For example, 委員会の構成 (committee membership) vs. 社会の構造 (social structure).
社会の構造を理解する。
Understand the structure of society.
Examine the chemical composition of this mineral.
体力をつけるために運動している。
I exercise to build up my physical strength.
He has a robust constitution.