Translation guide
The English word "policy" covers a wide range of meanings, from formal organizational rules to personal principles. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on context.
A set of rules, guidelines, or a plan adopted by a government, company, school, etc.
The most common and versatile word for a policy, guideline, or basic direction set by an organization. Used in business, government, and institutional contexts.
The company announced a new policy.
Act in accordance with government policy.
Specifically refers to government or political policies, measures, or strategies. Often used for economic, foreign, or social policies.
A new economic policy was introduced.
Discuss foreign policy.
Refers to specific rules, regulations, or stipulations, often written. Used for company rules, terms of service, etc.
Please check the employment regulations.
Violating this policy will result in penalties.
Loanword from English, used mainly in business or IT contexts (e.g., privacy policy, security policy). Less common in everyday speech.
We updated our privacy policy.
A personal rule, principle, or way of doing things that one consistently follows.
Also used for personal policies or principles, though slightly formal. Can be used for one's own approach to life or work.
My policy is to always be honest.
Means 'principle' or 'doctrine'. Often used in compounds like 現実主義 (realism) or 菜食主義 (vegetarianism). Can sound ideological.
A natural way to express a personal policy or habit: 'I make it a rule to ~'. Use after dictionary form of verb.
I make it a policy to jog every morning.
Similar to ～ことにしている, but emphasizes effort or intention. 'I try to make sure that ~'.
I have a policy of eating vegetables every day.
A contract of insurance.
方針 is a general term for a policy or guideline in any organization, including personal principles. 政策 is specifically for government or political policies. Use 方針 for company rules, personal approaches, or broad directions. Use 政策 for economic, foreign, or social measures by the state.
While ポリシー is understood, it is often a loanword used in specific contexts like IT or business jargon. Overusing it can sound unnatural. In most cases, 方針 or a phrase like ～ことにしている is more natural.
My policy is... (unnatural in casual speech)
What is your company's policy on remote work?
It's my policy not to lend money to friends.
The government's economic policy is controversial.
He never compromises his principles.
That's my principle/policy.
He has a policy of not wasting anything.
I have a policy of not making personal calls during work.
Take out a life insurance policy.
Renew my car insurance policy.