Translation guide
The belief that war and violence are unjustifiable and that disputes should be settled peacefully. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific terms and phrases that reflect both philosophical and political stances.
To express the general idea of pacifism as a belief system or philosophy opposing war and violence.
The standard term for pacifism, literally 'peace-ism'. Used in both everyday and formal contexts.
彼は平和主義者です。
He is a pacifist.
平和主義は彼の信念の核心です。
Pacifism is at the core of his beliefs.
Literally 'anti-war argument'. Often used in political or ideological discussions, emphasizing opposition to war specifically.
彼の非戦論は多くの支持を集めた。
His anti-war stance gained a lot of support.
Means 'anti-war'. Often used as a prefix in compounds like 反戦運動 (anti-war movement). More activist in tone.
彼女は反戦デモに参加した。
She participated in an anti-war demonstration.
To refer specifically to Japan's post-war pacifism as enshrined in Article 9 of the Constitution, renouncing war.
Refers to Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, the famous 'peace clause'. Often used in political discourse.
憲法9条は日本の平和主義の象徴です。
Article 9 is a symbol of Japan's pacifism.
Literally 'peace constitution', a common way to refer to the post-war constitution emphasizing its pacifist nature.
平和憲法を守るべきだという意見があります。
There is an opinion that we should protect the peace constitution.
To describe a personal commitment to non-violence or refusal to participate in war.
Means 'non-violence'. Often used in the context of personal philosophy or movements like Gandhi's.
彼は非暴力を貫いた。
He remained committed to non-violence.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'to oppose war'. Useful for stating one's position clearly.
私は戦争に反対します。
I am opposed to war.
To talk about pacifism as an organized movement or activism.
Means 'peace movement'. Covers activism, protests, and organizations promoting peace.
彼女は平和運動に人生を捧げた。
She dedicated her life to the peace movement.
平和主義 is the broadest term for pacifism as an ideology. 非戦論 is more specific to arguments against war, often used in political or academic contexts. 反戦 is more activist and direct, often used in slogans and movements.
To refer to a person who is a pacifist, add 者 (しゃ) to 平和主義: 平和主義者 (へいわしゅぎしゃ). This is the most common and natural way.
Specifically 'anti-war movement'. Often used for protests against specific wars.
ベトナム戦争中、反戦運動が盛り上がった。
During the Vietnam War, the anti-war movement gained momentum.