Translation guide
The concept of education in Japanese can be expressed through words for the system, the process of being educated, one's academic background, or the act of teaching. The most common and general term is 教育 (きょういく).
Referring to the education system, the field of education, or education in a broad, institutional sense.
The most general and common word for 'education'. Covers schooling, teaching, and the system as a whole.
Education is highly valued in Japan.
Talking about the level of education someone has received, often in formal contexts like resumes.
Focusing on the act of learning or being taught, often in a specific context.
Emphasizing the action of educating someone.
The verb form meaning 'to educate'. Used for both formal and informal teaching.
Specifically referring to the period of mandatory education, like elementary and middle school.
教育 (きょういく) is the broadest term for education as a system or process. 学歴 (がくれき) specifically refers to one's academic record or credentials. 教養 (きょうよう) implies cultural refinement and a well-rounded education, often beyond formal schooling.
When talking about someone's level of education on a resume or in formal contexts, use 学歴 (がくれき), not 教育. Saying 教育が高い is unnatural; use 学歴が高い or 高学歴 (こうがくれき).
She values education.
We need to reform the education system.
Refers specifically to one's academic background or educational history. Commonly used on resumes and in formal discussions.
Please write your educational background on your resume.
He has a high level of education.
Refers to scholarly learning or academic study. More about the pursuit of knowledge than formal schooling.
He is devoted to his studies.
Again, the general term. Can be used for the process of receiving education.
The children are receiving a good education.
Refers to cultivation, refinement, or a well-rounded education. Often implies cultural and intellectual development beyond formal schooling.
She is a cultured person.
He is passionate about educating young people.
The general verb for 'to teach'. More common in everyday speech than 教育する, but can be used for any kind of teaching.
I teach English.
Means 'compulsory education'. Used when talking about the legally required schooling period.
In Japan, compulsory education is nine years.
He has a good education.
What is your educational background?