Translation guide
The concept of justice in Japanese can be expressed through several words and phrases, each with different nuances. The most common and versatile term is 正義 (seigi), which covers moral rightness and fairness. Other terms like 公正 (kousei) emphasize impartiality, while 司法 (shihou) refers to the justice system. In everyday contexts, phrases like 公平 (kouhei) or 筋が通っている (suji ga tootte iru) are often used.
Expressing the abstract concept of justice as a moral principle or ideal.
The most direct and common translation for 'justice' as a moral concept. Used in contexts like 'justice prevails' or 'sense of justice'. Can sound slightly formal or literary.
Emphasizes fairness and impartiality. Often used in legal, social, or procedural contexts.
Fairness, equity. More everyday than 公正. Used when distributing resources or opportunities.
Literally 'the logic holds', used to mean something is just, reasonable, or makes sense morally.
His argument is just/reasonable.
Referring to the institutions that administer law and justice.
The judicial branch or system. Used in phrases like '司法制度' (judicial system) or '司法権' (judicial power).
The act of holding someone accountable for wrongdoing.
To make someone face legal judgment. A natural way to express 'bring to justice'.
Justice in terms of social equality and fairness.
The idea that virtue is rewarded and vice punished in a fitting way.
While 正義 is the direct translation, it can sound grandiose or abstract in casual conversation. For everyday fairness, use 公平 or phrases like 筋が通っている.
公正 (kousei) is about impartiality in procedures and judgments, often used in legal contexts. 公平 (kouhei) is about fairness in distribution and treatment, more common in daily life.
He has a strong sense of justice.
公正な裁判を受ける権利
the right to a fair trial
公平に分けてください。
Please divide it fairly.
Judicial independence is important.
Court. Often used when 'justice' refers to the court system.
Take him to court (lit. bring him to justice).
We must bring the criminal to justice.
To arrest. Often used in news when someone is 'brought to justice'.
The culprit was finally brought to justice (arrested).
The standard term for 'social justice'.
Fight for social justice.
Equality. Often used in social justice contexts.
Seek equality for all people.
A Buddhist term meaning 'retribution for one's deeds', often used for poetic justice or karma.
That's poetic justice.
You reap what you sow. More about facing consequences of one's own actions.
His failure is poetic justice (he had it coming).
We demand justice.