Translation guide
A system of government where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed as 代議制民主主義 or 間接民主制, but the English term is also widely understood.
The general concept of representative democracy as a form of government.
The standard translation, literally 'representative system democracy'. Used in political science and formal contexts.
日本は代議制民主主義を採用している。
Japan adopts a representative democracy.
In casual conversation or media, the English loanword レプレゼンタティブ・デモクラシー is sometimes used, but it's less common than the Japanese terms. It may sound technical or academic.
Literally 'indirect democracy'. Contrasts with direct democracy. Common in political discussions.
間接民主制の下では、国民は代表者を通じて政治に参加する。
Under indirect democracy, citizens participate in politics through representatives.
A shorter variant of 代議制民主主義, also common.
代議民主制は多くの国で採用されている。
Representative democracy is adopted in many countries.
Less common but understandable. Sometimes used in translations.
代表民主制の原則について議論する。
Discuss the principles of representative democracy.