Translation guide
The English word 'representation' covers several distinct ideas: acting on behalf of someone, depicting something visually or in words, and the abstract notion of something standing for something else. This guide breaks down these meanings and gives natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To express the idea of representing someone else, such as in legal, business, or political contexts.
The most common and general term for representing a person, group, or organization. Can be used as a noun or as part of the verb 代表する.
He attended the meeting as a representative of the company.
I expressed my opinion as the student representative.
Refers to acting as a proxy or agent, often in a more formal or legal sense. Implies substitution rather than broad representation.
The lawyer appeared in court as the defendant's representative.
I will attend the meeting on behalf of the department head.
Specifically means a person who acts as an agent or proxy. Often used in legal or formal contexts.
The contract requires the signature of the agent.
To express the idea of showing or describing something through art, words, or other media.
Broad term for expression or representation in art, language, or media. Can refer to the act or the result.
This painting is a representation of the beauty of nature.
Focuses on detailed depiction or description, often in literature or art. Emphasizes the act of portraying vividly.
Means reproduction or recreation, often used for representing something from the past or a scene with high accuracy.
To express the idea that one thing stands for or symbolizes another, often in mathematics, semiotics, or philosophy.
A technical term used in philosophy, psychology, and cultural studies for mental or symbolic representation. Not used in everyday conversation.
Language is a representation of reality.
A versatile verb pattern meaning 'to represent' or 'to stand for'. Can be used in many contexts, from symbols to data.
This symbol represents 'equals'.
Means symbol or emblem. Used when something represents an abstract idea or quality.
To express the concept of legal representation, such as by a lawyer or in court.
Specifically refers to legal defense or advocacy. Often used in the context of a lawyer representing a client.
He was in charge of the defendant's representation.
A formal legal term for representation in litigation. Used in legal documents.
I entrusted the legal representation to a lawyer.
代表 (daihyō) is used for representing a group or organization in a broad sense, often as a spokesperson or elected representative. 代理 (dairi) implies acting in place of a specific person, often temporarily or with limited authority. For example, a company president is a 代表, while someone attending a meeting on their behalf is a 代理.
The katakana word リプレゼンテーション is rarely used in natural Japanese and sounds unnatural. Use the appropriate Japanese term based on context.
There are limits to verbal representation.
The representation of the characters in the novel is wonderful.
His paintings are faithful representations of reality.
この映画は歴史的事件を忠実に再現している。
This movie is a faithful representation of a historical event.
The graph represents the trend in sales.
鳩は平和の象徴だ。
The dove is a representation of peace.