Translation guide
The belief that a select group of people are superior and should have more influence or power. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms for the ideology, the elite class, and attitudes of superiority.
To refer to the belief or social system that a select group should rule or have privileges.
The most direct translation, used in political and social contexts to describe the ideology of elitism.
彼の政策はエリート主義に基づいている。
His policies are based on elitism.
Literally 'chosen people thought', often used in historical or religious contexts, but can imply a sense of elitism.
そのグループは選民思想を持っている。
That group has an elitist mindset.
A more literal compound meaning 'privileged class-ism', rarely used but understandable.
特権階級主義は社会の分断を生む。
Privileged class-ism creates social division.
To describe the personal attitude of looking down on others based on perceived superiority.
Refers to a consciousness of being part of a chosen elite, often with a negative connotation of arrogance.
彼の選民意識にはうんざりだ。
I'm fed up with his elitist attitude.
Arrogance or haughtiness, a general term that can describe elitist behavior.
To refer to the group of people considered elite.
The loanword for 'elite', widely used to refer to the elite class in society, business, or academia.
彼は社会のエリートだ。
He is a member of the social elite.
Literally 'the chosen ones', a more literary or dramatic way to refer to an elite group.
彼らは自分たちを選ばれた者たちだと思っている。
They think of themselves as the chosen ones.
Directly translating 'elitism' as エリート主義 may not always convey the negative connotation of arrogance. In casual speech, phrases like 上から目線 are more natural for describing elitist attitudes.
選民意識 often carries a stronger, sometimes religious or historical nuance of being 'chosen', while エリート意識 is more secular and commonly used in modern contexts like education or career.
A common phrase meaning 'looking down from above', used for condescending or elitist attitudes.
彼女の上から目線の態度が嫌いだ。
I dislike her condescending attitude.
Elite consciousness, similar to 選民意識 but more modern and often used in business or academic contexts.
彼はエリート意識が強すぎる。
He has too strong an elitist consciousness.
彼の高慢な態度は周囲を不快にさせる。
His arrogant attitude makes those around him uncomfortable.
The privileged class, often used in sociological or political discussions.
特権階級の存在が不平等を生む。
The existence of a privileged class creates inequality.