Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for 'imperial prince' depends on the specific title, rank, and historical context. The most common modern term is 親王 (shinnō) for sons of the emperor, but other terms exist for different relationships and eras.
To refer to a son of the current emperor in official or formal contexts.
Official title for a son of the reigning emperor. Used in modern Japan for male children of the emperor. Note that this title is typically used with the prince's name, e.g., 〇〇親王.
Prince Akishino (Fumihito, Prince Akishino) is the younger brother of His Majesty the Emperor.
To refer to any son of an emperor, including historical figures, without specifying the exact title.
General term for a son of an emperor, often used in historical contexts. Can also be read as みこ in older texts.
That imperial prince ascended the throne at a young age.
Archaic or poetic term for an imperial prince, literally 'honorable child'. Rarely used in modern language except in historical or religious contexts.
To refer specifically to the heir to the throne.
The official title for the crown prince, the heir apparent to the Chrysanthemum Throne.
His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince is beloved by the people.
Literally 'Eastern Palace', a metonym for the crown prince. Used in formal or historical contexts.
To refer to a male member of the imperial family who is not a direct son of the emperor, such as a grandson or more distant relative.
Title for a male member of the imperial family who is not a direct son of the emperor, such as a grandson or great-grandson. Used with the name, e.g., 〇〇王.
The eldest son of Prince Tomohito was styled Prince Tomohito (Tomohito-ō).
In the modern Japanese imperial family, 親王 is used for sons of the emperor and sons of the emperor's sons (i.e., grandsons in the male line). 王 is used for more distant male-line descendants. Historically, the distinction varied. When in doubt, 親王 is the safer term for a direct son of an emperor.
The English word 'prince' can refer to both sons of monarchs and rulers of principalities. In Japanese, these are distinct concepts. 'Imperial prince' specifically refers to a son or male-line descendant of an emperor. Do not use 王子 (ōji) for an imperial prince, as 王子 is used for sons of kings or non-imperial princes.
The imperial prince was revered like a god.
東宮職は皇太子の家政を司る。
The Crown Prince's Household manages the affairs of the crown prince.
a Japanese imperial prince