Translation guide
In Japanese educational contexts, the English word 'syllabus' is commonly used as a loanword, but its meaning can differ from Western usage. It often refers to a course outline or schedule rather than a detailed weekly plan. This guide explains how to express the concept naturally.
Referring to the document outlining a course's content, schedule, and requirements.
The most common term in Japanese universities. It is a loanword from English and widely understood. However, a Japanese シラバス is often a brief outline rather than a detailed weekly plan.
シラバスを確認してください。
Please check the syllabus.
この授業のシラバスはオンラインで見られます。
You can view the syllabus for this class online.
Literally 'class plan' or 'lesson plan'. Used more in primary/secondary education or when emphasizing the planned structure of a course.
授業計画を学生に配布した。
I distributed the syllabus to the students.
Means 'lecture outline'. Used in formal university contexts, often as a heading for a syllabus document.
講義概要には評価方法が記載されている。
The grading policy is described in the syllabus.
Referring specifically to the weekly schedule of topics or assignments.
Literally 'class schedule'. Often used to refer to the timeline part of a syllabus.
授業スケジュールはシラバスの最後にあります。
The course schedule is at the end of the syllabus.
A 'class plan table', often a grid showing weekly topics. Used in school settings.
授業計画表に従って進みます。
We will proceed according to the syllabus schedule.
The set of topics covered by an exam or qualification, common in British English.
Means 'exam scope' or 'test coverage'. The most natural way to refer to what will be on an exam.
試験範囲は教科書の第5章までです。
The syllabus for the exam is up to chapter 5 of the textbook.
Literally 'question scope'. More formal, often used by teachers when announcing exam topics.
出題範囲を事前に知らせます。
We will inform you of the exam syllabus in advance.
In many Western universities, a syllabus includes a detailed week-by-week breakdown with readings and assignments. In Japan, a シラバス is often a concise overview with course goals, grading, and a rough schedule. If you need to refer to a detailed weekly plan, use 授業スケジュール or 週間計画 (しゅうかんけいかく).
シラバス refers to a single course's outline. カリキュラム (curriculum) refers to the overall program of study, such as a degree program. Do not confuse them.
この大学のカリキュラムは柔軟だ。
This university's curriculum is flexible.