Translation guide
The English word 'prince' can refer to a male royal family member, especially the son of a monarch, or a ruler of a small territory. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 王子 (ōji), but other terms exist depending on context, such as 皇太子 (kōtaishi) for a crown prince, or 公爵 (kōshaku) for a European duke/prince. This guide covers the main ways to express 'prince' in Japanese, from everyday usage to formal titles.
Referring to a prince in the general sense, such as in fairy tales, news, or casual conversation.
The standard word for 'prince', used for sons of kings/emperors in both Japanese and foreign contexts. Suitable for most situations.
イギリスの王子が来日した。
The British prince visited Japan.
おとぎ話の王子様は勇敢だった。
The prince in the fairy tale was brave.
A more respectful or endearing form of 王子, often used in stories or when speaking to children. The 様 (sama) adds politeness or a fairy-tale feel.
娘は王子様に憧れている。
My daughter admires princes.
A formal title for a prince of the Japanese imperial family, specifically a son or grandson of an emperor. Not used for foreign royalty.
Specifically referring to the prince who is next in line to become king/emperor.
Referring to a prince who is the monarch of a territory, such as Monaco or Liechtenstein.
Referring to a high-ranking nobleman, often translated as 'prince' in English but equivalent to a duke in some contexts.
Using 'prince' metaphorically to describe a man who is outstanding, charming, or noble in character.
Often used figuratively to describe an ideal man, like 'Prince Charming'. Common in romantic contexts.
彼はまさに王子様のような人だ。
He is truly a prince of a man.
王子 (ōji) is the general term for a prince, used for both Japanese and foreign royalty. 親王 (shinnō) is a specific title for a prince of the Japanese imperial family who is a son or grandson of an emperor. Using 親王 for a foreign prince would be incorrect.
イギリスの王子は親王ではない。
A British prince is not a shinnō.
The female equivalent is 王女 (ōjo) for a princess (daughter of a monarch) or 皇女 (kōjo) for an imperial princess. 姫 (hime) is a more general term for a princess or young lady of noble birth, often used in fairy tales.
王子と王女が結婚した。
The prince and princess got married.
王子が群衆に手を振った。
The prince waved to the crowd.
彼は人中の王子だった。
He was a prince among men.
A literary translation; more naturally, 彼はとても立派な人だった (He was a very fine person).
His Imperial Highness the Prince attended the ceremony.
The official title for the crown prince of Japan. Also used for crown princes of other monarchies in formal contexts.
皇太子さまは海外をご訪問中です。
The Crown Prince is currently visiting overseas.
Used for the crown prince of a kingdom (as opposed to an empire). Less common than 皇太子, but appropriate for European monarchies.
デンマークの王太子が結婚した。
The Crown Prince of Denmark got married.
A formal term for the heir to the Chrysanthemum Throne, used in official contexts. Rarely used in everyday language.
皇嗣殿下が公務を引き継がれた。
His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince has taken over official duties.
The Prince of Monaco gave a speech at the United Nations.
Grand Duke or Grand Prince, used for rulers of Luxembourg or historically for some Eastern European principalities.
ルクセンブルク大公が退位した。
The Grand Duke of Luxembourg abdicated.
The standard translation for a European duke or prince (as a noble title). In British peerage, 'prince' is a royal title, but 'duke' is a noble rank; Japanese often uses 公爵 for both when referring to non-royal princes.
あの公爵は広大な領地を持っている。
That prince (duke) owns vast estates.
Marquess, sometimes translated as 'prince' in certain European contexts (e.g., German Fürst). Less common than 公爵.
ドイツの侯爵家は歴史が古い。
The German princely family has a long history.
Literally 'prince on a white horse', equivalent to 'Prince Charming' or 'knight in shining armor'.
彼女は白馬の王子を待っている。
She is waiting for her Prince Charming.