Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'sexual discrimination' is most commonly expressed as 性差別 (seisabetsu). This term covers discrimination based on sex or gender. More specific terms exist for gender-based discrimination in social contexts, and related concepts like sexism are also important to know.
The broad concept of discrimination based on sex or gender, often in legal or formal contexts.
The standard term for sexual discrimination. Used in legal, academic, and everyday contexts.
性差別は法律で禁止されています。
Sexual discrimination is prohibited by law.
職場での性差別をなくすための取り組みが進んでいます。
Efforts to eliminate sexual discrimination in the workplace are progressing.
Literally 'male-female discrimination', often used interchangeably with 性差別, but emphasizes the binary gender aspect.
男女差別のない社会を目指しています。
We aim for a society without gender discrimination.
The ideology or attitude that one sex is superior, often leading to discrimination.
Sexism as an ideology. Often used in academic or activist contexts.
彼の発言は性差別主義に基づいている。
His remarks are based on sexism.
Adjectival form meaning 'sexist'. Used to describe actions, remarks, or attitudes.
その広告は性差別的だと批判された。
That advertisement was criticized as sexist.
Discrimination based on gender roles or identity, often in social or cultural contexts.
Uses the loanword 'gender'. Common in discussions of gender equality and LGBTQ+ issues.
ジェンダー差別をなくすための教育が必要です。
Education is necessary to eliminate gender discrimination.
A more literal phrase meaning 'discrimination based on sex'. Can be used in formal explanations.
性による差別は許されません。
Discrimination based on sex is not tolerated.
性差別 is the most general and formal term. 男女差別 emphasizes the male-female binary and is common in policy contexts. ジェンダー差別 is broader, encompassing gender identity and roles, and is often used in progressive or academic discourse.
Direct translations like '性的差別' (sexual discrimination in a sexual sense) can be misinterpreted as referring to sexual acts rather than gender-based discrimination. Stick to the established terms.