Translation guide
The English word "standard" can refer to a level of quality, a typical example, a flag or banner, or a widely accepted rule. This guide covers the most common Japanese expressions for each meaning, from everyday quality standards to official norms.
Expressing a required or expected level, such as in education, work, or products.
The most common word for a standard or criterion used to judge something. Used in many contexts.
This product meets safety standards.
Often used for abstract levels like living standards or academic standards. Slightly more formal than 基準.
Refers to a standard as an average or norm, often used in technical or statistical contexts.
Describing something that is normal, average, or not special.
Used for something that is standard, typical, or the norm. Often used with ～的.
Referring to a formally established norm, such as an industry standard or government regulation.
Used for industrial or technical standards, like ISO or JIS standards.
Referring to a flag used as a symbol, especially in historical or military contexts.
General word for flag. Can be used for a standard in the sense of a banner.
基準 (kijun) is a criterion or yardstick for judgment. 標準 (hyōjun) is an average or typical level. 水準 (suijun) is often used for abstract levels like living standards or academic achievement. In many cases they overlap, but 基準 emphasizes a threshold, while 標準 emphasizes normality.
The passing standard is 70 points.
生活水準が向上した。
The standard of living has improved.
標準的な身長は170cmです。
The standard height is 170 cm.
This size is standard.
Please follow the standard procedure.
Means 'general' or 'common', often used when 'standard' means what most people do or use.
That's a standard way of thinking.
This part conforms to JIS standards.
Also used for official criteria, especially in legal or regulatory contexts.
Emission standards have become stricter.
They marched carrying the standard.
Specifically a military standard or battle flag.
The standard fluttered in the wind.