Translation guide
The pursuit of pleasure as the highest good. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through philosophical terms, lifestyle descriptions, and related ideas of indulgence.
The ethical theory that pleasure is the highest good and proper aim of human life.
Standard term for hedonism as a philosophical or ethical stance. Literally 'pleasure-ism'.
He adheres to the philosophy of hedonism.
Refers specifically to the doctrine or theory of hedonism, often in academic or historical contexts.
We discussed the hedonistic doctrines of ancient Greece.
Epicureanism, a specific school of hedonism emphasizing modest pleasures and absence of pain. Used in philosophical contexts.
Epicureanism emphasizes mental pleasures.
A way of life devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasures and self-indulgence.
Also used for the lifestyle, not just the philosophy. Can carry a slightly negative nuance of self-indulgence.
His hedonistic lifestyle led to ruin.
To pursue pleasure; a descriptive phrase rather than a label.
Similar to 快楽主義 but often emphasizes enjoyment and luxury. Can be used for a hedonistic lifestyle.
Pleasure-seeking, merrymaking; often implies drinking, entertainment, and sometimes dissipation.
The view that human behavior is ultimately motivated by the pursuit of pleasure and avoidance of pain.
Explicit term for psychological hedonism, used in academic psychology or philosophy.
Psychological hedonism attempts to explain the principles of human behavior.
快楽主義 (hedonism) is the broader term for pleasure-seeking as a philosophy or lifestyle. 享楽主義 leans more toward enjoyment of luxury and sensual pleasures, often with a nuance of self-indulgence. In many contexts they overlap, but 快楽主義 is the safer direct translation for 'hedonism'.
Avoid directly translating 'hedonism' as ヘドニズム. While the loanword exists, it is rare and may not be understood. Use 快楽主義 instead.
She chose a life of pursuing pleasure.
Young people indulging in hedonism.
遊興にふける日々。
Days spent in hedonistic pleasure.