Translation guide
The idea that systems should be viewed as wholes, not just as collections of parts. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific philosophical terms, set phrases, and descriptive explanations.
Expressing the philosophical or general idea that the whole is more than the sum of its parts.
The standard translation for 'holism' in philosophy and science. Refers to the theory that complex systems should be viewed as wholes.
全体論は、部分の総和以上のものが全体にはあると考える。
Holism holds that the whole is more than the sum of its parts.
Katakana loanword from English. Common in academic and New Age contexts.
ホーリズムの考え方は、医療にも応用されている。
The concept of holism is also applied in medicine.
A proverbial phrase meaning 'the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.' Often used to explain holism.
このプロジェクトでは、全体は部分の総和に勝るという考え方が重要だ。
In this project, the idea that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts is important.
Use this phrase to describe a holistic perspective without using a specific term for 'holism.'
問題を解決するには、全体的な視点が必要です。
To solve the problem, a holistic perspective is necessary.
Referring to holistic medicine or a holistic approach to health.
Literally 'whole-body medicine.' Used for holistic medicine that treats the whole person.
全体医療では、心と体の両方をケアします。
Holistic medicine cares for both mind and body.
Commonly used for 'holistic medicine,' combining the English word with 医療.
ホリスティック医療は、患者の生活全体を見ます。
Holistic medicine looks at the patient's entire life.
Means 'whole-person approach.' Used in healthcare and counseling.
この病院では全人的アプローチを採用しています。
This hospital adopts a holistic approach.
Describing a holistic approach to business strategy or organizational management.
Company-wide or holistic approach. Emphasizes considering the entire organization.
この問題には全社的アプローチが必要だ。
This problem requires a holistic approach across the company.
Total optimization; a business term for optimizing the whole system rather than individual parts.
部分最適ではなく全体最適を目指すべきだ。
We should aim for total optimization, not partial optimization.
The adjective 全体的な (holistic) is very common and can be combined with many nouns, e.g., 全体的な視点 (holistic perspective), 全体的なアプローチ (holistic approach). It's often safer than trying to use a specific term for 'holism.'
Directly translating 'holism' as ホーリズム is understood in academic contexts but may sound overly technical or foreign in everyday conversation. Use descriptive phrases instead.