Translation guide
The English word "standing" can refer to physical posture, social reputation, or a continuous state. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Describing the act or state of being upright on one's feet, not sitting or lying down.
The most common way to say "is standing." It's the te-iru form of 立つ (to stand), indicating a continuous state.
彼はドアのところに立っている。
He is standing at the door.
The verb "to stand" (dictionary form). Use for habitual actions or future intentions, not for describing a current state.
電車の中ではいつも立つ。
I always stand on the train.
Means "to stand up" (from a sitting or lying position). Focuses on the action of rising.
彼は椅子から立ち上がった。
He stood up from the chair.
Means "while standing" or "remaining standing." Used to describe doing something in a standing position.
立ったまま食べた。
I ate while standing.
Referring to a person's rank, prestige, or how they are regarded by others.
General term for social position, status, or rank. Can be used in both formal and everyday contexts.
彼は会社で高い地位にある。
He holds a high standing in the company.
Refers to reputation or public estimation. Often used with adjectives like 良い (good) or 悪い (bad).
Means one's position or standpoint, often in a social or situational context. Implies a role or circumstances.
Refers to social status or identity, often in a more formal or historical sense (e.g., class, caste). Less common in modern casual speech.
Describing something that has existed for a long time or is permanent, like a "standing invitation" or "standing army."
Means "permanent" or "standing" (as in a standing committee). Used for institutions or facilities.
常設の委員会
a standing committee
Literally "always valid." Used for offers, invitations, or rules that remain in effect.
いつでも有効な招待
a standing invitation
Means "always kept on hand" or "standing" (e.g., a standing army). Often used in military or inventory contexts.
常備軍
a standing army
Describing objects that are set upright or remain in a certain position.
Means "is leaning against something" or "is stood up." Used for objects placed in a standing position.
壁にほうきが立てかけてある。
A broom is standing against the wall.
Can also be used for inanimate objects that are upright, like a book on a shelf.
本が本棚に立っている。
The book is standing on the shelf.
The verb 立つ (tatsu) only means physical standing. To talk about social status, use nouns like 地位 (chii) or 評判 (hyouban).
彼は社会的地位が高い。
He has high social standing.
地位 (chii) refers to rank or status in a hierarchy, while 立場 (tachiba) refers to one's position or circumstances in a situation. 立場 is more about role or perspective.
彼の立場ではそう言うしかない。
Given his standing (situation), he had no choice but to say that.
あの店は評判が良い。
That shop has a good standing.
Please consider his standing (situation).
a person of high standing