Translation guide
The English word 'idealism' can refer to a philosophical doctrine, a personal attitude of pursuing high ideals, or an artistic/literary movement. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
The doctrine that reality is fundamentally mental or immaterial, or that ideas are the only true reality.
The standard term for philosophical idealism, especially in academic contexts. Refers to theories that prioritize ideas or mind over matter.
彼は大学で観念論を専攻した。
He majored in idealism at university.
Often used interchangeably with 観念論, but can emphasize the 'mind-only' aspect. Common in Buddhist philosophy contexts.
唯心論は物質の存在を否定する。
Idealism denies the existence of matter.
Literally 'principle of ideals', this can sometimes be used for philosophical idealism, but it more commonly refers to the personal attitude (see next meaning). Use with caution in strict philosophical contexts.
May be misunderstood as personal idealism rather than the philosophical doctrine.
プラトンの理想主義は西洋哲学の基礎である。
Plato's idealism is the foundation of Western philosophy.
The attitude or practice of forming and pursuing noble ideals, often in a way that is impractical or overly optimistic.
The most common term for personal idealism. It implies a commitment to high ideals, sometimes with a nuance of impracticality.
彼の理想主義は時に現実離れしている。
His idealism is sometimes out of touch with reality.
若者の理想主義は社会を変える力がある。
The idealism of youth has the power to change society.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'pursuing ideals'. Useful when you want to emphasize the action rather than the abstract concept.
彼は理想を追い求めることを決してやめなかった。
He never stopped pursuing his ideals.
Refers to an idealist (a person). Can be used to describe someone who is an idealist by nature.
A movement or tendency in art and literature that emphasizes the representation of things in an ideal or perfect form, rather than realistically.
Also used for artistic idealism. Context usually makes the meaning clear.
この絵画は理想主義の影響を受けている。
This painting is influenced by idealism.
The act of idealizing something in art or literature. Can be used as a noun or combined with する to make a verb.
観念論 is strictly philosophical idealism (mind over matter). 理想主義 is broader, covering personal idealism and artistic idealism. Using 観念論 for personal idealism would sound odd.
The katakana word アイデアリズム exists but is rarely used and may not be understood. Stick to the standard terms above.
He's an idealist, so he can't come up with practical solutions.
This novel idealizes rural life.