Translation guide
The English word 'parochial' has two main meanings: (1) relating to a church parish, and (2) narrow-minded or limited in scope. This guide focuses on the second meaning, which is more common in everyday use. For the religious sense, see the first meaning.
Describing a person, attitude, or perspective that is overly focused on local or personal concerns and lacks broader awareness.
Literally 'narrow field of vision'. This is the most common and natural way to express 'parochial' in the sense of being narrow-minded or lacking broad perspective.
彼は視野が狭い。
He is parochial.
視野が狭い考え方では、国際的な問題は理解できない。
With a parochial mindset, you can't understand international issues.
Referring to a parish or its church, often in a religious context.
The standard term for 'parochial' in the religious sense, meaning 'of a parish'.
教区の教会で結婚式を挙げた。
We had the wedding at the parochial church.
While 'parochial' can imply a focus on local matters, it carries a negative connotation of narrow-mindedness. Simply translating it as 地元の (local) misses the critical nuance. Use 視野が狭い or 偏狭な to capture the judgmental tone.
A more formal adjective meaning 'narrow-minded' or 'intolerant'. Often used in written or formal contexts.
偏狭なナショナリズムは危険だ。
Parochial nationalism is dangerous.
An idiomatic expression meaning 'narrow-minded' or 'intolerant'. Less common than 視野が狭い but still used.
あの人は了見が狭いから、新しい意見を受け入れない。
That person is parochial, so they won't accept new ideas.
Specifically 'parochial school', a school run by a religious organization.
彼女は教区学校に通っていた。
She attended a parochial school.