Translation guide
This entry covers how to express 'internal affairs' in Japanese, ranging from domestic politics and government to internal matters within organizations. The most common and direct equivalent is 内政, but other terms like 内部事情 and 内務 are used in specific contexts.
Referring to the domestic or internal political matters of a country, as opposed to foreign affairs.
The standard term for a nation's internal or domestic affairs, especially in political contexts. Often used in contrast with 外交 (foreign affairs).
内政に干渉するべきではない。
We should not interfere in internal affairs.
彼は内政の経験が豊富だ。
He has extensive experience in domestic affairs.
Literally 'domestic problems/issues'. Used when emphasizing problems or issues within a country.
その国は国内問題に直面している。
The country is facing internal affairs problems.
Refers to internal or domestic affairs, often used in historical or administrative contexts (e.g., Ministry of Home Affairs). Less common in modern general usage.
内務省は国内の行政を担当する。
The Ministry of Home Affairs is in charge of domestic administration.
Referring to the internal affairs, matters, or workings of a company, group, or institution.
Refers to the internal circumstances or affairs of an organization. Commonly used when discussing matters not publicly known.
会社の内部事情に詳しい。
I'm familiar with the company's internal affairs.
内部事情を外部に漏らしてはいけない。
You must not leak internal affairs to outsiders.
Literally 'internal problems'. A straightforward way to refer to issues within an organization.
これは内部の問題なので、外部には話せない。
This is an internal affair, so I can't discuss it outside.
Refers to the internal state or affairs of an organization, often implying confidential or behind-the-scenes information.
Referring specifically to a division within a police force that investigates misconduct by officers.
The standard term for an internal affairs division in Japanese police forces. Literally 'Inspector's Office'.
その警官は監察官室の捜査を受けている。
The officer is under investigation by Internal Affairs.
A more general term for internal inspection or oversight, sometimes used for internal affairs functions.
警察の内部監察は重要だ。
Internal affairs in the police is important.
内政 is used for national-level domestic politics, while 内部事情 is used for internal matters of organizations. Do not use 内政 for a company's internal affairs.
The literal translation '内部の事柄' is not idiomatic. Use 内部事情 or 内政 depending on context.
会社の内情を探る。
To investigate the company's internal affairs.