Translation guide
The English word "revolution" covers political upheaval, fundamental change, and circular motion. Japanese uses different words for each. This guide helps you choose the right one.
Overthrow of a government or social order, often by force.
The standard word for a political revolution. Used for major historical events like the French Revolution.
The French Revolution began in 1789.
The revolution succeeded.
Refers to reform or transformation, often within a system rather than a complete overthrow. Can be used for political or social change.
Political reform is being demanded.
A dramatic and wide-reaching change in an area like technology, industry, or thought.
Also used metaphorically for major shifts, like the Industrial Revolution or digital revolution.
The internet brought about an information revolution.
Innovation or reform, often in technology or business. Less about upheaval, more about progress.
A single turn around an axis or center, as in astronomy or mechanics.
A regular, repeating series of events or the time it takes to complete one cycle.
革命 (kakumei) is for political or metaphorical revolutions. 回転 (kaiten) is for physical rotation. Do not confuse them.
A revolution occurred (political).
The wheel is revolving.
English "revolution" can mean one turn of a wheel, but 革命 never means that. Use 回転 or 公転 instead.
The Industrial Revolution greatly changed society.
技術革新が経済成長を支える。
Technological innovation supports economic growth.
The engine's revolutions increased.
地球の公転周期は約365日だ。
The Earth's revolution period is about 365 days.
血液の循環が悪い。
Blood circulation is poor.