Translation guide
The English word "morals" refers to principles of right and wrong behavior. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 道徳 (dōtoku), but depending on context, other terms like 倫理 (rinri) or モラル (moraru) may be used. This guide helps you choose the right word for different situations.
Referring to a person's or society's standards of good behavior, often in everyday contexts.
The most common and general term for morals or morality. Used in both personal and social contexts.
He acted against morals.
Moral education is important.
Loanword from English, often used for social morals or public decency. Slightly more casual and modern feel.
Recently, the morals of young people have been declining.
Refers to ethics, often in a more formal, philosophical, or professional context. Not typically used for personal morals.
We discuss medical ethics.
Describing an individual's inner sense of right and wrong, often in phrases like "loose morals" or "high morals."
The lesson or message about right and wrong in a story or fable.
The lesson or moral of a story. This is the standard term.
What is the moral of this story?
道徳 (dōtoku) is the general term for morals in daily life. 倫理 (rinri) is more formal and often used for professional or philosophical ethics. モラル (moraru) is a loanword that often implies social norms or public decency, and can sound more casual.
While 倫理 can be translated as "ethics" or "morals," it is not natural for talking about an individual's personal moral character. Use 道徳 or 道徳心 instead.
彼の倫理観は立派だ。
His morals are admirable.