Translation guide
The principle of separating religion from government and public life. In Japanese, this concept is often expressed through borrowed terms or descriptive phrases, as it is not a native traditional idea.
The idea that government and public institutions should be neutral toward religion.
The standard translation for 'secularism'. It is a direct term used in academic and formal contexts.
世俗主義は政教分離の原則に基づいている。
Secularism is based on the principle of separation of church and state.
Literally 'separation of religion and politics'. This is a common phrase used in legal and social discussions, often more concrete than 'secularism'.
日本国憲法は政教分離を定めている。
The Japanese Constitution stipulates the separation of religion and state.
A direct loanword from English, used mainly in academic or international contexts. Less common than 世俗主義.
セキュラリズムの概念は西洋から来た。
The concept of secularism came from the West.
A society or state that is not influenced by religion.
Means 'secular society'. 世俗的 means 'secular' or 'worldly', and is commonly used to describe non-religious contexts.
彼は世俗的な社会で育った。
He grew up in a secular society.
Literally 'non-religious state'. This is a more descriptive phrase that emphasizes the absence of religion in governance.
その国は非宗教的な国家を目指している。
That country aims to be a secular state.
A person who holds secular views or a worldview not based on religion.
Means 'secular way of thinking'. It describes a worldview that does not rely on religious beliefs.
彼女は世俗的な考え方を持っている。
She has a secular outlook.
Means 'non-religious' or 'having no religion'. It is often used to describe a person's lack of religious affiliation, which can imply secularism.
日本人の多くは無宗教だと言われる。
Many Japanese people are said to be non-religious.
The term 'secularism' is not widely used in everyday Japanese conversation. It is better to use descriptive phrases like 政教分離 (separation of religion and politics) or 世俗的 (secular) depending on the context.
世俗主義 is the abstract principle of secularism, while 政教分離 specifically refers to the legal or constitutional separation of religion and state. In many contexts, 政教分離 is more concrete and commonly understood.