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.
The Constitution of Japan came into effect in 1947.
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.
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.
We need to review the composition of the committee.
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.
I have a constitution that easily gains weight.
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).
Acts that violate the national constitution are not permitted.
We analyzed the constituent elements of this alloy.
社会の構造を理解する。
Understand the structure of society.
Examine the chemical composition of this mineral.
He has an allergic constitution.
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.