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.
Look at the list of successive emperors.
Successive emperors are enshrined at this shrine.
Literally 'emperors of generations', emphasizing the hereditary or familial succession. Slightly more colloquial than 歴代天皇.
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.
Investigate the records of successive courts.
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.
Three successive emperors ascended the throne.
The last few successive emperors wished for peace.
Specifies successive emperors of a particular era or period. Replace [Period] with the era name.
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.
Memorize the names of successive emperors.
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.
Learn about the successive emperors of the Heian period.