Translation guide
The English word 'guidelines' refers to general rules, principles, or advice for how to do something. In Japanese, it is expressed with words like 指針, ガイドライン, or 方針, depending on context. This guide helps you choose the right term.
To refer to a set of recommended practices or standards, often in official or organizational contexts.
Refers to guiding principles or a compass for action. Common in formal and business settings.
この指針に従って行動してください。
Please act in accordance with these guidelines.
Loanword from English, widely used in business, government, and technical contexts. Often implies a written document.
新しいガイドラインが発表された。
New guidelines have been announced.
Means 'policy' or 'basic direction'. Used when guidelines are more about a general approach or strategy.
会社の方針に従う。
Follow the company guidelines.
Means 'standard' or 'criteria'. Used when guidelines serve as a benchmark for evaluation or quality.
安全基準を満たす必要がある。
We need to meet the safety guidelines.
To refer to a set of directions or procedural steps, often in manuals or how-to guides.
A guidebook or manual. Suitable for step-by-step instructions.
この手引きに沿って作業を進めてください。
Please proceed with the work according to these guidelines.
Means 'procedure' or 'steps'. Focuses on the order of actions.
To refer to principles that govern behavior, often in a moral or ethical sense.
Means 'norm' or 'standard of behavior'. Used for ethical or social guidelines.
社会規範に従う。
Follow social guidelines.
Specifically 'ethical guidelines'. Common in medical or research contexts.
研究倫理指針を遵守する。
Comply with research ethics guidelines.
指針 (shishin) is a native Japanese word implying a compass or guiding principle, often used in formal contexts. ガイドライン (gaidorain) is a direct loanword and feels modern, often referring to a specific document. 方針 (houshin) is more about a policy or direction, less about detailed rules.
指導 (shidou) means 'guidance' or 'instruction' in the sense of teaching or coaching, not a set of rules. Avoid using it to translate 'guidelines'.
Check the guidelines (steps).