Translation guide
The military police are a law enforcement organization within the armed forces. In Japanese, the term depends on the country and context, with 憲兵 (kenpei) being the most common general term.
Referring to the military police as an organization or its members in a general sense.
The standard Japanese word for military police, used for both the organization and its members. Historically associated with the Imperial Japanese Army, but also used for modern forces of other countries.
He was arrested by the military police.
The military police unit is in charge of base security.
Specifically refers to a military police unit or corps, rather than individual members.
A military police unit is stationed in that area.
Abbreviation used in contexts related to the U.S. military or in informal settings. Often written in Latin alphabet.
The MPs are patrolling.
Referring to the military police of a particular nation, where a country-specific term may be used.
Used for most countries' military police, including historical contexts.
The French military police are called the Gendarmerie Nationale.
Specifically refers to the military police of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).
Used for gendarmerie-type forces, such as the French Gendarmerie or Italian Carabinieri, which have both military and civilian police roles.
憲兵 (kenpei) is the general term for military police and can be used for any country, including historical Japan. 警務隊 (keimutai) is the official name for the military police of the modern Japan Self-Defense Forces. Use 警務隊 when specifically referring to the JSDF's military police.
Do not translate 'military police' word-for-word as 軍事警察 (gunji keisatsu). While understandable, it is not the standard term and may sound unnatural. Use 憲兵 or the appropriate specific term.
The JSDF military police maintain order within the base.
The gendarmerie, while being part of the military, also carries out civilian police duties.