Translation guide
The English word "subjects" can refer to topics of discussion, academic fields, or people under authority. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Referring to what is being talked about, written about, or studied in a general sense.
Common word for a topic of conversation or discussion. Natural in both casual and formal contexts.
What's today's topic?
Let's avoid that subject.
Loanword from German 'Thema', often used for a central theme of a discussion, essay, or event. Slightly more formal or academic than 話題.
The subject of the meeting is environmental issues.
Refers to subject matter for artistic or literary works. Used in contexts like novels, paintings, or films.
The subject of this novel is war.
Referring to fields of study in school or university.
Standard word for a school subject or course. Used in educational contexts.
What's your favorite subject?
He got excellent grades in all subjects.
Similar to 科目, but often used in compound words like 教科書 (textbook). Slightly more formal.
Can mean a department or course of study, but also used for a subject in a curriculum. Often seen in university contexts.
Referring to citizens of a country, or people ruled by a monarch or government.
Referring to people or animals being studied in research.
話題 (wadai) is the most common word for a topic of conversation. テーマ (tēma) implies a central theme, often for formal discussions or creative works. 題材 (daizai) is specifically for artistic or literary subject matter.
The subject changed.
Decide on the theme of the thesis.
Look for a subject for a painting.
Do not use 主題 (shudai) or 件名 (kenmei) for school subjects. Use 科目 (kamoku) or 教科 (kyōka).
Math is a difficult subject.
A new subject was introduced.
He is studying in the economics department.
Protect the rights of the people.
天皇の臣民として忠誠を誓った。
They swore loyalty as subjects of the Emperor.
この研究の対象は大学生です。
The subjects of this study are university students.