Translation guide
Refers to a line of emperors in sequence, often in historical or formal contexts. The most common Japanese expression is 歴代天皇 (rekidai tennō), used for all successive emperors of a dynasty or institution. Other expressions exist for specific nuances like generations or reigns.
To refer to all the emperors in a historical line or sequence, such as those of a dynasty or nation.
The standard term for 'successive emperors', used in historical, official, and academic contexts. It encompasses all emperors in a sequence.
歴代天皇の一覧を見る。
Look at the list of successive emperors.
この神社には歴代天皇が祀られている。
Successive emperors are enshrined at this shrine.
To refer to a specific number of successive emperors, such as 'the last three emperors' or 'emperors of the Heian period'.
Use this pattern to specify a number of successive emperors. Replace [Number] with a numeral or counter word.
3代の天皇が続けて即位した。
Three successive emperors ascended the throne.
歴代天皇 is the formal, standard term used in official contexts like history books or encyclopedias. 代々の天皇 is more common in everyday speech and emphasizes the generational aspect. Both are correct, but 歴代天皇 is preferred in writing.
歴代天皇の名前を暗記する。
Memorize the names of successive emperors.
代々の天皇が住んだ御所。
The imperial palace where successive emperors lived.
Do not translate 'successive emperors' word-for-word as 連続した皇帝 (renzoku shita kōtei). This sounds unnatural and may imply a foreign context (e.g., Roman emperors). Use 歴代天皇 for Japanese emperors, or 歴代皇帝 (rekidai kōtei) for non-Japanese emperors.
Literally 'emperors of generations', emphasizing the hereditary or familial succession. Slightly more colloquial than 歴代天皇.
代々の天皇がこの儀式を執り行ってきた。
Successive emperors have performed this ceremony.
A formal, literary term meaning 'successive courts' or 'successive reigns', often used in historical writing. Implies the imperial courts over time.
歴朝の記録を調査する。
Investigate the records of successive courts.
The last few successive emperors wished for peace.
Specifies successive emperors of a particular era or period. Replace [Period] with the era name.
平安時代の歴代天皇について学ぶ。
Learn about the successive emperors of the Heian period.