Translation guide
The act of establishing an organization, institution, city, or nation. Japanese expressions vary by what is being founded and the context.
To establish a company, school, association, or other organized body.
The most common and general term for founding an organization, company, or institution. Used in both formal and everyday contexts.
This company was founded in 1990.
The founding of a new school has been decided.
Often used for founding schools, universities, or organizations with a focus on the initial creation and ideals. Slightly more formal and emphasizes the pioneering aspect.
This university was founded in 1920.
Specifically for founding a business or starting a commercial enterprise. Common in business contexts.
My grandfather founded this shop.
To establish a political entity, settlement, or country.
Founding of a nation or state. Used in historical and political contexts.
The founding of the United States was in 1776.
Literally 'construction', but can be used metaphorically for founding a city or nation, emphasizing the building aspect.
Used for founding temples, shrines, or sometimes cities. Formal and somewhat literary.
To originate or establish an abstract concept, custom, or framework.
Refers to originating or founding something like a tradition, school of thought, or system. Emphasizes the beginning.
He is the founder of this martial arts school.
To establish firmly, often used for systems, theories, or reputations. Focuses on making something solid and recognized.
Referring to a person who establishes something.
設立 is the most general for organizations. 創立 emphasizes the initial creation and is often used for schools. 創業 is specifically for businesses. Use 設立 unless you want to stress the pioneering aspect or commercial nature.
English often uses 'founding' as a noun (e.g., 'the founding of the company'). In Japanese, use the appropriate noun (設立, 創立, etc.) rather than trying to nominalize a verb. For example, 'the founding of the company' is 会社の設立, not a gerund form.
新しい都市の建設が進んでいる。
The founding (construction) of a new city is underway.
この寺の創建は8世紀にさかのぼる。
The founding of this temple dates back to the 8th century.
彼は新しい治療法を確立した。
He established (founded) a new treatment method.
会社の設立者として名を連ねる。
To be listed as a founder of the company.
スティーブ・ジョブズはアップルの創業者です。
Steve Jobs is the founder of Apple.