Translation guide
Polygyny refers to a form of polygamy where a man has multiple wives. This concept is expressed in Japanese through specific terms and phrases, often with cultural and historical context.
The practice or state of a man having multiple wives simultaneously.
The standard term for polygyny, literally 'one husband, many wives'. Used in formal, academic, or descriptive contexts.
Polygyny is accepted in some cultures.
Loanword from English, used in academic or cross-cultural discussions. Less common than 一夫多妻.
Polygyny is a subject of anthropological study.
Describing a marriage or family structure where a man has multiple wives.
Describing a man who has multiple wives, often in a narrative or explanatory context.
Referring to polygyny in historical or specific cultural settings, such as in ancient Japan or certain societies.
In everyday conversation, directly saying ポリジニー or 一夫多妻 may sound overly technical. Instead, use descriptive phrases like 複数の妻がいる (has multiple wives) unless the context is academic or formal.
Polygyny (一夫多妻) specifically means one man with multiple wives. Polygamy (複婚 or ポリガミー) is a broader term that includes polygyny and polyandry (一妻多夫). Be careful not to confuse them.
There are many polygynous families in that village.
The king had multiple wives.
The system or institution of polygyny. Used in historical or sociological discussions.
Polygyny was prohibited in the Meiji era.