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.
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.
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.
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.
A specific type of legislative act in the European Union.
The standard translation for an EU directive. Used in legal and political contexts.
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.
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.
命令: 隊長が攻撃命令を下した。
The captain gave the attack order.
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.