Translation guide
The English word "royalty" has two main meanings: (1) members of a royal family, and (2) payments made to creators or owners for the use of their work or property. These meanings are expressed very differently in Japanese.
Referring to kings, queens, princes, princesses, and the institution of monarchy.
The most common and neutral term for 'royalty' as a collective group of royal family members. Can refer to any monarchy.
Money paid to an author, inventor, or owner for each use or sale of their work, such as books, music, patents, or mineral rights.
These two Japanese words are completely unrelated. 王族 (おうぞく) means royal family, while 印税 (いんぜい) means royalties (payment). Using the wrong one will cause confusion.
For creative works like books and music, 印税 is the natural choice. ロイヤリティー is more common in business, technology, and resource extraction contexts. When in doubt about creative works, use 印税.
イギリスの王族は世界中で知られている。
British royalty is known all over the world.
Literally 'royal house' or 'royal family'. Often used to refer to the institution or household of a specific monarchy, like the British Royal Family.
王室の結婚式はテレビで放送された。
The royal wedding was broadcast on TV.
Specifically refers to the Japanese imperial family. Use only when talking about Japanese royalty.
皇族の方々は公務で忙しい。
Members of the imperial family are busy with official duties.
A polite way to refer to royalty, adding 方々 (かたがた) to show respect.
王族の方々が来日された。
Royalty visited Japan.
The standard term for royalties paid to authors, composers, etc., based on sales or usage. Literally 'printing tax', but now used broadly for creative works.
作家は本の売り上げに応じて印税を受け取る。
Authors receive royalties based on book sales.
その曲の印税は高額だった。
The royalties for that song were substantial.
The loanword from English, commonly used in business contexts for royalties on patents, franchises, or resources. Less common for book/music royalties.
特許のロイヤリティーを支払う。
Pay patent royalties.
A general term for 'usage fee' or 'royalty' for using property, equipment, or rights. Broader than 印税.
ソフトウェアの使用料を毎年払う。
Pay annual software royalties.
Specifically 'copyright royalty'. Used in legal or formal contexts.
著作権料の交渉が難航している。
Negotiations over copyright royalties are stalled.