Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of monogamy is most commonly expressed with the loanword モノガミー or the native term 一夫一婦制. However, in everyday conversation, people more often describe the practice or ideal of having only one partner using phrases like 一人の人を愛する or 浮気をしない.
To refer to the social or personal practice of monogamy, often in discussions about relationships, marriage, or cultural norms.
The standard Japanese term for monogamy as a social or legal system. It literally means 'one husband, one wife system'. Used in formal or academic contexts.
In Japan, monogamy is stipulated by law.
The loanword from English, used in similar contexts to the English word, often in discussions about relationships or sociology. Slightly more casual than 一夫一婦制 but still somewhat academic.
I recently read a book about monogamy.
A natural way to express the idea of loving only one person, often used in personal conversations about commitment. Not a direct translation of 'monogamy' but conveys the core concept.
I want to keep loving only one person.
Literally 'not cheating', this phrase is used to describe monogamous behavior in a relationship. It focuses on fidelity rather than the system of monogamy.
He promised he would never cheat.
To express the moral or personal value of monogamy, often in the context of relationship expectations.
Means 'to love devotedly' or 'to love single-mindedly'. It emphasizes loyalty and focus on one person, often used in romantic contexts.
She loves him devotedly.
A natural way to say 'to cherish only one person'. It conveys the idea of monogamous commitment without using technical terms.
To refer to monogamy in animals, often in scientific or nature contexts.
Using 一夫一婦制 or モノガミー in everyday conversation can sound stiff or academic. Instead, describe the behavior or feeling, e.g., 浮気しない (not cheating) or 一人だけを愛する (love only one person).
一夫一婦制 refers to the human social system of monogamy, while 一夫一妻 is used for animals. Mixing them up can cause confusion in scientific contexts.
I will continue to cherish only you.
モノガミーは哺乳類では珍しい。
Monogamy is rare among mammals.