Translation guide
The English word 'equity' has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: fairness/justice, financial ownership (stocks), and the value of property minus debts. It also touches on legal equity and the theatrical union.
The quality of being fair and impartial; treating everyone equally.
The most direct and common translation for 'equity' in the sense of fairness. Used in everyday contexts and formal settings.
We demand equitable treatment.
This system lacks equity.
Similar to 公平, but often implies justice and moral rightness, not just equal treatment. Common in legal and business contexts.
The right to an equitable trial.
Means 'equality' more than 'equity', but sometimes used when the focus is on equal outcomes. Be careful: equity often implies fairness tailored to needs, not strict equality.
平等 can imply sameness, while equity may require different treatment to achieve fairness. Use 公平 when in doubt.
Guarantee equity of opportunity.
Ownership interest in a company, represented by shares of stock.
The standard term for 'equity' in finance, referring to stocks or shares. Often used in compounds like 株式市場 (stock market).
I hold equity in that company.
The loanword 'equity' is used in financial contexts, especially in phrases like プライベート・エクイティ (private equity).
Invest in a private equity fund.
Refers to 'equity' as shareholders' equity on a balance sheet. More technical accounting term.
The value of an asset after deducting any liabilities, such as a mortgage.
Commonly used for home equity or net asset value. Literally 'net assets'.
The equity in my house has increased.
Means 'asset value', often used in the context of home equity or collateral value.
Refers to one's share or stake in a property, often used in co-ownership situations.
A system of law that supplements strict legal rules with principles of fairness, originating in English law.
The technical term for 'equity' as a branch of law. Rarely used outside legal contexts.
Seek equitable relief.
The labor union representing actors and stage managers in the United States.
This is a proper noun. In Japanese, it is usually referred to as アクターズ・エクイティ協会 or simply explained. No direct translation exists.
He is a member of Actors' Equity Association.
公平 (fairness) focuses on impartial treatment without favoritism. 公正 (justice) adds a moral dimension, often used in legal or official contexts. 平等 (equality) means treating everyone the same, which may not always be equitable. For 'equity' in the sense of fairness, 公平 is usually the best choice.
In English, 'equity' can mean both fairness and stock ownership. In Japanese, these are completely different words. Use 公平 for fairness and 株式 for stocks.
Equity investment involves risk.
自己資本比率を改善する。
Improve the equity ratio.
住宅の資産価値を計算する。
Calculate the equity of the property.
この家の持ち分は50%だ。
My equity in this house is 50%.