Translation guide
The concept of marriage between two people of the same sex. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with the term 同性婚 (どうせいこん), but other phrases exist depending on context.
The general concept of same-sex marriage, as a legal or social institution.
The standard, neutral term for same-sex marriage. Used in legal, political, and everyday contexts.
日本では同性婚はまだ合法化されていません。
Same-sex marriage has not yet been legalized in Japan.
同性婚を認める国が増えています。
The number of countries that recognize same-sex marriage is increasing.
Literally 'same-sex marriage'. Slightly more colloquial than 同性婚, but also common.
同性結婚の権利を求めるデモが行われた。
A demonstration was held demanding the right to same-sex marriage.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'marriage between same-sex partners'. Used when emphasizing the same-sex aspect.
同性同士の結婚を法律で認めるべきだ。
Same-sex marriage should be legally recognized.
When discussing same-sex marriage as part of LGBTQ+ rights or social movements.
Often used in activist contexts, meaning 'marriage equality for LGBTQ+'. Note: 'LGBTQ+' is commonly written in Latin script.
LGBTQ+の結婚の平等を実現するために活動しています。
We are working to achieve marriage equality for LGBTQ+ people.
Refers to same-sex partnership systems, which are often a step toward full marriage rights. Not exactly 'marriage', but related.
多くの自治体が同性パートナーシップ制度を導入しています。
Many municipalities have introduced same-sex partnership systems.
When talking about a particular same-sex couple's marriage or wedding.
Means 'same-sex couple's wedding'. Natural when referring to the ceremony or event.
先週、友達の同性カップルの結婚式に出席しました。
Last week, I attended my friend's same-sex wedding.
Means 'same-sex married couple'. Used to refer to the couple themselves.
彼らは同性婚のカップルとして、地域で初めて認められました。
They were the first same-sex married couple to be recognized in the area.
Do not translate 'same-sex marriage' word-for-word as 同じ性の結婚 (おなじせいのけっこん). This sounds unnatural. Use 同性婚 or 同性結婚 instead.
In legal or formal contexts, 同性婚 is preferred. In casual conversation, 同性結婚 or descriptive phrases like 同性同士の結婚 are also fine.