Translation guide
A fundamental rule, belief, or philosophy that directs behavior, decisions, or actions. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various terms depending on the context, such as personal ethics, organizational policies, or abstract philosophies.
A fundamental idea or value that guides a person's life, work, or an organization's culture.
Refers to a foundational philosophy or ideal, often used for companies, schools, or personal creeds. It implies a high-level, abstract principle.
Our company's guiding principle is 'customer first'.
His guiding principle in life is 'sincerity'.
A personal creed or conviction; what one believes in and lives by. More personal than 理念.
My guiding principle is not to lie.
A principle, doctrine, or -ism. Often used in compounds like 自由主義 (liberalism). Can sound ideological.
He adheres to the principle of vegetarianism.
A specific rule or standard that directs how to act or make decisions in particular situations.
A guideline, compass, or guiding principle for action. Often used in policy, planning, or personal conduct.
Please clarify the guiding principles of this plan.
To establish a code of conduct (guiding principles for behavior).
A policy, course, or direction. More concrete than 指針, often used in business or management.
A fundamental rule or principle. Often used in legal, scientific, or general contexts.
A principle concerning right and wrong behavior, often personal or societal.
Morals, ethics. Refers to the principles of right and wrong. Often used in education or philosophy.
He acted against moral principles.
Ethics, moral principles. Often used in professional or academic contexts (e.g., medical ethics).
A systematic set of beliefs or a school of thought that guides a group or movement.
理念 (philosophy/ideal) is abstract and value-driven. 指針 (guideline) is a compass for action. 方針 (policy) is a concrete direction or plan. Use 理念 for core beliefs, 指針 for guiding standards, and 方針 for specific policies.
The corporate philosophy is 'sustainability', but the management policy is 'cost reduction'.
The English word 'principle' can be translated as 原理 (げんり) for scientific principles, but for guiding principles in behavior or policy, 原理 is usually inappropriate. Use context-appropriate terms like 理念, 指針, or 原則.
会社の方針に従って行動する。
Act in accordance with the company's guiding principles.
民主主義の原則を守る。
Uphold the principles of democracy.
Adhere to research ethics (guiding principles).
彼の経営哲学は独特だ。
His management philosophy (guiding principle) is unique.