Translation guide
The concept of legitimacy in Japanese is expressed through words related to lawfulness, validity, social acceptance, and proper lineage. The most common translations are 正当性 (seitousei) for general legitimacy and 合法性 (gousei) for legal legitimacy.
Expressing that something is justified, valid, or rightful in a broad sense, such as the legitimacy of a claim, argument, or authority.
The most common and versatile word for legitimacy, meaning validity, justifiability, or rightfulness. Used in legal, political, and everyday contexts.
I acknowledge the legitimacy of his claim.
Refers to legitimacy in terms of orthodoxy, proper lineage, or traditional authenticity. Often used for dynasties, schools of thought, or succession.
Means validity or appropriateness, often used for arguments, methods, or decisions. Closer to 'soundness' but can overlap with legitimacy.
Expressing that something is lawful, legal, or in accordance with the law.
Referring to the status of a child born to married parents.
The formal term for legitimate birth. Often used in legal contexts regarding inheritance or family registry.
Expressing that a person, organization, or action is socially accepted or credible.
正当性 (seitousei) is about moral or logical justification, while 合法性 (gousei) is strictly about conformity to law. An action can have 合法性 but lack 正当性, or vice versa.
That law has legality but lacks legitimacy.
There are doubts about the legitimacy of this decision.
The legitimacy of his succession to the throne is being questioned.
その方法の妥当性を検証する。
We will verify the legitimacy (validity) of that method.
Specifically means legality or lawfulness. Used in legal and formal contexts.
We will confirm the legitimacy (legality) of the contract.
A more technical term for legality, often used in legal documents or discussions.
The legality (legitimacy) of the act was disputed.
The child's legitimacy was proven.
A noun meaning 'legitimate child'. Used in legal and family contexts.
He is treated as a legitimate child.
Means credibility or trustworthiness. Often used when legitimacy is about being believable or reliable.
The legitimacy (credibility) of the organization was damaged.
Also used for social legitimacy in terms of being recognized as proper or authentic, e.g., a legitimate successor or tradition.
He is the legitimate successor of that school.
Do not directly translate 'legitimacy' as レジティマシー; it is not a natural Japanese word. Use the appropriate term based on context.