Translation guide
The English word "reign" has two main uses: the period of rule by a monarch, and the act of ruling. Japanese expresses these with different nouns and verbs, and the choice depends on whether you are talking about a specific era name, the general concept of a reign, or the action of reigning.
Referring to the time during which a monarch rules.
during the reign of Queen Victoria · a long and peaceful reign · the reign of Emperor Meiji
General term for a monarch's reign or rule. Used in historical or formal contexts.
Queen Elizabeth's reign was long.
Specifically the period during which a monarch is on the throne. More formal and precise than 治世.
The emperor's reign exceeded 30 years.
Literally "the era of ~", used with a monarch's name to refer to their reign in a broader historical sense.
During Queen Victoria's reign, Britain developed greatly.
For Japanese emperors, the reign is typically referred to by the era name (e.g., 明治, 大正, 昭和, 平成, 令和). This is the most natural way to talk about a Japanese emperor's reign.
During the Meiji era (Emperor Meiji's reign), Japan modernized rapidly.
The reign of Emperor Showa was a time of war and reconstruction.
Describing the action of a monarch holding power.
The king reigned for 50 years. · She reigned over a vast empire. · He reigned wisely.
To rule or govern. Used for monarchs and leaders. Transitive verb.
The king reigned over the country peacefully.
To reign or govern, often used in formal or political contexts. Can be used for both monarchs and governments.
To reign (over), to dominate. Implies a more majestic or absolute rule. Often used metaphorically.
Phrase meaning "during the reign of ~", used to describe events that happened while a monarch was ruling.
Referring to a period when something is dominant or prevalent, not necessarily a monarch.
the reign of terror · the reign of digital technology · his reign as champion
Domination or control. Can be used figuratively for non-monarchical reigns.
The reign of terror continued.
Heyday or golden age. Used when referring to the peak period of someone's influence or success.
As with monarchs, this pattern can be used figuratively to mean "the era of ~".
The reign of digital technology has arrived.
治世 is a noun meaning "reign" (period). To say "reign" as an action, use verbs like 治める or 統治する.
When referring to the reign of a Japanese emperor, it is most natural to use the era name (元号) plus 時代 or の時に. For example, "during the reign of Emperor Meiji" is 明治時代に or 明治の時に.
The queen reigned for over 60 years.
The emperor reigned over a vast territory.
During the reign of Elizabeth I, England strengthened its naval power.
His reign as champion lasted a long time.