Translation guide
The concept of a special right, advantage, or immunity granted to a person or group. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns like 特権 (formal/legal), 特典 (perk/benefit), and verbs like ～する特権がある or ～する栄誉がある. The most common and direct translation is 特権, but context matters: a customer perk is 特典, while the honor of doing something is often 栄誉.
A right or advantage that only a particular person or group has, often officially granted.
The standard word for 'privilege' in legal, social, or formal contexts. Refers to a special right or immunity not available to everyone.
富裕層だけが持つ特権だ。
It's a privilege that only the wealthy have.
外交官には免税の特権がある。
Diplomats have the privilege of tax exemption.
Pattern for 'have the privilege of doing something'. Used in formal or official contexts.
彼は大統領と会談する特権を得た。
He was granted the privilege of meeting the president.
Refers to a privilege in the sense of a special benefit or perk, often for customers, members, or employees. Not for legal rights.
会員になると、様々な特典が受けられます。
If you become a member, you can receive various privileges (perks).
Expressing that it is an honor or a special opportunity to do something, often in formal speech.
Used in formal contexts to express the honor or privilege of doing something. Often used in speeches or formal introductions.
本日ここで講演する栄誉をいただきました。
I have been given the privilege (honor) of speaking here today.
Similar to 栄誉, but slightly more common in everyday polite speech. 'It is an honor/privilege to...'
お会いできて光栄です。
It's a privilege (honor) to meet you.
Humble expression implying that one is receiving a privilege or favor by being allowed to do something. Very common in business Japanese.
本日は発表させていただきます。
I have the privilege of presenting today. (lit. I will humbly receive the favor of presenting.)
A privilege in the sense of having access to something not available to others, often in a social or experiential context.
Emphasizes that being able to do something is a privilege. Casual to formal.
こんな美しい景色を見られるのは特権だ。
Being able to see such a beautiful view is a privilege.
Refers to the 'privileged class' in a socio-economic sense. More academic or political.
彼らは特権階級の出身だ。
They come from a privileged class.
Access rights or permissions in a computer system.
The standard term for 'privilege' or 'permission' in IT contexts. Often used with アクセス (access).
管理者権限が必要です。
Administrator privileges are required.
Also used in IT, but 権限 is more common for general permissions. 特権 often implies elevated or special system rights.
特権 (とっけん) is a special right or immunity, often legal or social. 特典 (とくてん) is a benefit or perk, like a free gift or discount. Don't use 特権 for a customer loyalty perk; use 特典.
会員特典として10%割引があります。
As a membership privilege (perk), there is a 10% discount.
When expressing the honor of meeting someone or being invited, 光栄 (こうえい) or 栄誉 (えいよ) is more natural than 特権. 特権 can sound too heavy or legalistic.
この操作には特権が必要です。
This operation requires privileges.