Translation guide
The characteristic spirit, beliefs, or guiding principles of a community, culture, or era. In Japanese, this is expressed through words for spirit, moral character, or cultural atmosphere, depending on context.
To describe the fundamental values, attitudes, or spirit that define a community, organization, or era.
The most direct and common translation for 'ethos' as the spirit or mentality of a group. Used in phrases like 'school spirit' or 'corporate ethos'.
To refer to the credibility or ethical character of a speaker or writer, as in Aristotle's rhetorical appeals.
The standard term in rhetoric and philosophy for 'ethos' as one of the three modes of persuasion. Used in academic contexts.
精神 (seishin) is the most versatile for 'ethos' as spirit or mentality. 気風 (kifuu) emphasizes atmosphere and is often used for places or groups with a distinct character. 理念 (rinen) is more about abstract ideals or philosophy, common in corporate or organizational contexts.
Directly translating 'ethos' as エートス outside of academic contexts may sound unnatural. Use 精神 or 気風 for everyday descriptions of group character.
この学校の精神は「自由と責任」です。
The ethos of this school is 'freedom and responsibility'.
Refers to the prevailing mood, atmosphere, or character of a group or place. Often used for schools, companies, or towns.
この町には自由な気風がある。
This town has a free-spirited ethos.
Refers to the guiding philosophy or ideals of an organization. More formal and abstract than 精神.
会社の理念は顧客第一です。
The company's ethos is customer-first.
A direct loanword from Greek, used in academic or philosophical contexts to refer to the ethical character or spirit of a culture.
古代ギリシャのエートスを研究する。
Study the ethos of ancient Greece.
アリストテレスはエートス、パトス、ロゴスを説いた。
Aristotle taught ethos, pathos, and logos.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'ethical appeal', used when explaining the concept in Japanese.
彼のスピーチは倫理的訴えに欠けていた。
His speech lacked ethos.