Translation guide
The concept of a system where people or things are ranked one above the other. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific nouns, adjectives, and set phrases depending on whether you mean a social structure, an organizational ranking, or a conceptual ordering.
social hierarchy
organizational hierarchy
hierarchy of needs
Describing a system where people or groups are ranked by status or authority.
Refers to a class-based hierarchy, often in social or historical contexts. Common in discussions of social stratification.
This country has a strict hierarchy.
Emphasizes the order or ranking within a group, often used in business or organizational contexts.
Describing a hierarchy of ideas, values, or categories.
Describing something as being hierarchical in nature.
Adjectival form meaning 'hierarchical'. Used to describe structures, systems, or organizations.
Referring to the highest rank or position in a hierarchy.
階級制度 (かいきゅうせいど) is a class system, often with social implications. 序列 (じょれつ) is a more neutral ranking order, common in workplaces. ヒエラルキー is a direct loanword used in formal or academic contexts.
There is a strict hierarchy in that company.
会社の序列は年功序列だ。
The company hierarchy is based on seniority.
Loanword from English, used in academic or business settings to refer to a formal hierarchy.
We need to review the organizational hierarchy.
Refers to layers or levels in a hierarchy, often used for abstract structures like needs, data, or systems.
Maslow's hierarchy of needs is famous.
Can also be used for abstract rankings, like a hierarchy of values.
The hierarchy of values is changing.
This data is organized hierarchically.
Literally 'pyramid-shaped', often used metaphorically to describe a hierarchical structure.
a pyramid-shaped organizational hierarchy
He stands at the top of the hierarchy.
Refers to the highest class or rank in a social hierarchy.
She belongs to the top of the hierarchy.
A class hierarchy creates social inequality.
Speak up ignoring the hierarchy.
While understood, ヒエラルキー can sound overly academic or stiff in everyday conversation. Use 序列 or 階級制度 for natural speech.
欲求階層説はよく知られた理論だ。
The hierarchy of needs is a well-known theory.