Translation guide
The act of trying to influence politicians or officials on an issue. In Japanese, this is often expressed with loanwords or native terms for political pressure and persuasion.
The general activity of trying to influence government decisions, often by interest groups or corporations.
The job or industry of lobbying.
ロビー活動 is the standard term for professional lobbying by interest groups. 陳情 is more about formal petitions from citizens or local organizations, often with a written request. 陳情 can sound less aggressive and more bureaucratic.
ロビー活動は企業が行い、陳情は住民が行うことが多い。
Lobbying is often done by corporations, while petitions are often made by residents.
The English word 'lobbying' is widely understood in Japanese political contexts, but using ロビー alone (without 活動) might be confusing as it usually means a hotel lobby. Stick to ロビー活動 or ロビイング.
The most common and neutral term for lobbying, combining the loanword 'lobby' with 'activity'. Used in news and formal contexts.
その団体はロビー活動を通じて法律を変えようとしている。
That group is trying to change the law through lobbying.
Direct loanword from English, used in political and business contexts. Slightly less common than ロビー活動.
企業のロビイングが政策に影響を与えることがある。
Corporate lobbying can sometimes influence policy.
Formal petitioning or making a request to authorities. Often used for local groups or individuals appealing to government, but can imply lobbying.
住民は道路建設について市に陳情した。
The residents petitioned the city about the road construction.
Literally 'working on' someone, meaning to approach or persuade. Can be used for lobbying in a broader sense, but less specific.
議員への働きかけが重要だ。
Approaching lawmakers is important.
A lobbyist, the person who does lobbying. Commonly used in Japanese media.
彼は大手企業のロビイストとして働いている。
He works as a lobbyist for a major corporation.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'person who conducts lobbying'. Used when ロビイスト might not be understood.
ロビー活動を行う人たちが議会に集まった。
People conducting lobbying gathered at the parliament.