Translation guide
A directive is an official instruction or order. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the context: formal commands, official instructions, or general guidance.
An authoritative order or command, often from a government, organization, or superior.
The most direct equivalent for a formal, authoritative directive. Used in military, governmental, or organizational contexts.
A non-binding recommendation or guideline, often from an authority.
A guideline or policy directive. Implies a recommended course of action rather than a strict order.
A specific type of legislative act in the European Union.
The standard translation for an EU directive. Used in legal and political contexts.
指令 (しれい) is the most direct translation for 'directive' and implies an authoritative, often written order. 指示 (しじ) is a broader term for instructions or directions, less forceful. 命令 (めいれい) is a strong command, often oral and immediate. Use 指令 for formal, official directives; 指示 for general instructions; 命令 for direct orders.
指令: 政府の指令に従う。
Follow the government's directive.
指示: 医者の指示に従って薬を飲む。
Take medicine according to the doctor's instructions.
政府は新しい安全指令を発表した。
The government issued a new safety directive.
A general term for instructions or directions, often from a superior. Less forceful than 指令, but still formal.
上司の指示に従ってください。
Please follow the directive from your superior.
A direct order or command. Stronger and more imperative than 指示. Often used in military or strict hierarchical settings.
大統領は軍に撤退命令を出した。
The president issued a directive to the military to withdraw.
新しい環境指針が企業に配布された。
New environmental directives were distributed to companies.
An official notice or circular, often used for internal directives within an organization.
社内通達で新しい勤務時間が知らされた。
The new working hours were announced in an internal directive.
A loanword from English, used for non-binding guidelines, especially in business or technical contexts.
このガイドラインはあくまで参考です。
This directive is only for reference.
EUは新しいデータ保護指令を採択した。
The EU adopted a new data protection directive.
命令: 隊長が攻撃命令を下した。
The captain gave the attack order.
命令: 隊長が攻撃命令を下した。
The captain gave the attack order.