Translation guide
The English adjective 'political' covers a wide range of meanings related to politics, power, and strategy. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on the specific nuance.
Describing something connected to the activities of government, public affairs, or the state.
The most common and general way to say 'political' in Japanese. It is an adjectival form of 政治 (politics).
彼は政治的な問題に関心がある。
He is interested in political issues.
政治的な理由で辞任した。
He resigned for political reasons.
A noun-modifying form using the noun 政治 (politics). Often used in compound terms.
政治の世界は厳しい。
The political world is tough.
Describing a person who is involved in or passionate about politics.
Literally 'to have an interest in politics'. A natural way to say someone is politically aware or engaged.
彼女はとても政治に関心がある。
She is very political (interested in politics).
Means 'to be engaged in political activities'. Used for someone actively involved in campaigns or movements.
彼は学生時代から政治活動をしている。
He has been politically active since his student days.
Describing actions, decisions, or statements that are based on political views rather than objective facts.
Same as above, but context clarifies the ideological nuance.
その判断は政治的なものだ。
That decision is political.
Literally 'to have a political intention'. Used when implying an action is driven by a political agenda.
彼の発言には政治的意図があると思う。
I think his statement has a political motive.
Describing behavior that is concerned with gaining advantage or influence, often in a workplace or group setting.
Can also be used for organizational politics, though context is key.
社内の政治的な駆け引きに疲れた。
I'm tired of the political maneuvering in the company.
Means 'tactics' or 'strategizing'. Often used for interpersonal or office politics.
彼は駆け引きが上手い。
He is good at playing political games.
Describing language or behavior that avoids offense, often in social contexts.
A direct borrowing from English, often shortened to ポリコレ. Used to describe politically correct speech or actions.
彼はいつもポリティカル・コレクトネスに配慮した言い方をする。
He always uses politically correct language.
Abbreviation of ポリティカル・コレクトネス. Common in casual conversation.
それってポリコレ的にどうなの？
Is that politically correct?
Saying '彼は政治的だ' (He is political) can sound unnatural. Instead, use phrases like '政治に関心がある' (interested in politics) or '政治活動をしている' (politically active).
政治的な is an adjective meaning 'political', while 政治の is a noun modifier meaning 'of politics'. 政治的な問題 (political problem) is more common than 政治の問題 (problem of politics), though both are possible.