Translation guide
The policy or ideology of avoiding involvement in international affairs. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the term 孤立主義, but related concepts like 鎖国 (historical national isolation) and 非干渉主義 (non-interventionism) are also relevant.
The ideology or policy of a country avoiding alliances and involvement in international affairs.
The standard term for isolationism in political and historical contexts. Refers to a policy of avoiding entanglements with other nations.
その国は孤立主義を採用した。
That country adopted isolationism.
孤立主義的な外交政策
an isolationist foreign policy
Literally 'closed country'. Refers specifically to Japan's historical policy of national seclusion during the Edo period. Can be used metaphorically for extreme isolationism.
江戸時代、日本は鎖国政策をとっていた。
During the Edo period, Japan had a policy of national isolation.
Non-interventionism. Emphasizes not interfering in other countries' affairs, which is a key aspect of isolationism. Less common than 孤立主義.
非干渉主義は内政不干渉の原則に基づく。
Non-interventionism is based on the principle of non-interference in internal affairs.
Describing a person, group, or nation as isolationist in outlook.
Adjectival form meaning 'isolationist'. Used to describe policies, attitudes, or stances.
彼は孤立主義的な考えを持っている。
He has isolationist views.
An isolationist (person).
彼は孤立主義者として知られている。
He is known as an isolationist.
When a person or group deliberately avoids contact with others, similar to 'keeping to oneself'.
Verb meaning 'to isolate oneself' or 'to become isolated'. Not specifically political; can refer to social isolation.
彼は周囲から孤立している。
He is isolated from those around him.
To shut oneself away, to withdraw from society. Often used for social withdrawal (hikikomori).
彼は部屋に引きこもっている。
He shuts himself in his room.
孤立主義 is the general term for isolationism as a political ideology. 鎖国 specifically refers to Japan's historical closed-country policy and carries strong historical connotations. Use 鎖国 only when referring to that period or making a deliberate historical analogy.
When talking about personal isolation or social withdrawal, do not use 孤立主義. Instead, use 孤立する or 引きこもる. 孤立主義 is strictly for political/national policy.