Translation guide
The concept of obedience in Japanese is expressed through words that emphasize following rules, complying with authority, or being dutiful. The most common term is 従順 (jūjun), which implies a willing, gentle obedience. Other terms like 服従 (fukujū) suggest submission to a stronger power, while 遵守 (junshu) is used for strict adherence to laws or regulations. The choice depends on the nature of the obedience and the relationship involved.
Expressing a positive, cooperative obedience, often in hierarchical relationships like child to parent or pet to owner.
The most common and neutral term for obedience, implying a willing and gentle compliance. Often used for children, pets, or subordinates who obey without resistance.
彼女は両親に従順だ。
She is obedient to her parents.
この犬はとても従順で、よく言うことを聞く。
This dog is very obedient and listens well.
Means 'obedient' in the sense of being honest, meek, and not stubborn. Often used for children who are well-behaved and do as they are told without fuss.
うちの子は素直で、言うことをよく聞きます。
My child is obedient and listens well.
Expressing obedience that involves yielding to a stronger power, often with a nuance of compulsion or lack of choice.
Implies submission or obedience to a higher authority, often in contexts of power dynamics, military, or absolute rule. Can carry a nuance of being forced to obey.
兵士たちは上官に絶対服従を誓った。
The soldiers swore absolute obedience to their superior officers.
独裁者への服従を拒む者もいた。
Some refused obedience to the dictator.
A verb meaning 'to obey' or 'to follow' (rules, orders, advice). More general than 服従 and can be used in everyday situations.
Expressing obedience in the sense of compliance with formal rules, often in legal, corporate, or procedural contexts.
Formal term for strict observance or compliance with laws, regulations, or agreements. Common in legal and business contexts.
法令遵守は企業の義務です。
Compliance with laws and regulations is a corporate obligation.
交通規則を遵守しましょう。
Let's obey traffic rules.
A common, everyday phrase meaning 'to obey/follow the rules'. Less formal than 遵守.
子供たちにルールを守るように教える。
Teach children to obey the rules.
Expressing obedience specifically within the parent-child relationship, often tied to traditional values.
Refers to filial piety, including obedience and devotion to one's parents. A traditional Confucian virtue.
親に孝行するのは当然だ。
It is natural to be obedient and devoted to one's parents.
従順 (jūjun) is willing, gentle obedience, often in personal relationships. 服従 (fukujū) implies submission to a stronger power, sometimes against one's will. 遵守 (junshu) is formal compliance with rules or laws. Choose based on the degree of voluntariness and context.
Directly translating 'obedience' as オビーディエンス is not natural. Use the appropriate Japanese term based on the nuance you want to convey.
規則に従ってください。
Please obey the rules.
彼は医者の指示に従った。
He obeyed the doctor's instructions.