Translation guide
The English word 'legitimate' can mean lawful, reasonable, genuine, or born to married parents. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Describing something that is allowed by law or rules.
The most direct and common translation for 'legitimate' in the sense of being legal or lawful.
それは合法的なビジネスです。
That is a legitimate business.
Noun form meaning 'legality' or 'lawfulness'. Often used in compounds.
その行為は合法ですか？
Is that action legitimate?
A more formal or legal term for 'lawful' or 'legitimate'. Often used in legal documents.
適法な手続きを踏む必要がある。
You need to follow legitimate procedures.
Describing something that is fair, acceptable, or based on good reasons.
Means 'justifiable' or 'rightful'. Used for reasons, claims, or actions that are morally or logically sound.
彼の主張は正当だ。
His claim is legitimate.
Means 'appropriate' or 'reasonable'. Often used for prices, decisions, or conclusions.
A phrase meaning 'makes sense' or 'is logical'. Used for arguments or explanations.
彼の言い分は筋が通っている。
His argument is legitimate.
Describing something that is real, not fake or counterfeit.
Means 'genuine article' or 'real thing'. Used for objects, art, or people.
これは本物のダイヤモンドですか？
Is this a legitimate diamond?
Means 'regular', 'official', or 'authorized'. Often used for products, licenses, or procedures.
A formal term meaning 'authentic' or 'genuine'. Used in legal or official contexts.
Describing a child whose parents are legally married.
A legal term meaning 'legitimate birth'. Rarely used in everyday conversation.
嫡出子と非嫡出子の区別は撤廃された。
The distinction between legitimate and illegitimate children was abolished.
In modern Japanese, the concept is usually expressed descriptively rather than with a single word. For example, 'child born to married parents'.
結婚している両親から生まれた子
a child born to married parents
The direct translation 嫡出子 (ちゃくしゅつし) is a legal term and sounds unnatural in daily conversation. Use a descriptive phrase instead.
彼は結婚している両親の子です。
He is a child of married parents.
I think that price is legitimate.
Please purchase legitimate products.
真正な書類が必要です。
Legitimate documents are required.