Translation guide
The English word 'systemic' refers to something that affects an entire system, rather than just a part. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the translation depends on context. Common approaches include using 全体的な (overall), 組織的な (organizational), or 体系的な (systematic). For medical/biological contexts, 全身性の is used. This guide helps learners choose the right expression.
Describing something that is widespread throughout a system, organization, or society, rather than isolated.
Means 'overall' or 'general'. Used when emphasizing that something affects the whole system, not just parts. Common in business and everyday contexts.
この問題は全体的なものです。
This problem is systemic.
Systemic reform is necessary.
Means 'organizational' or 'systematic'. Often used for systemic issues within an organization or institution.
組織的な差別が存在する。
Systemic discrimination exists.
Means 'structural'. Emphasizes that the problem is built into the structure of the system. Common in social and economic contexts.
構造的な不平等を是正する必要がある。
We need to correct systemic inequality.
Describing something that is methodical, organized, or based on a coherent system of thought.
Means 'systematic' or 'methodical'. Used when referring to a structured body of knowledge or a coherent system. Note: this is closer to 'systematic' than 'systemic', but often used in similar contexts.
体系的なアプローチが必要です。
A systemic approach is needed.
彼は体系的な知識を持っている。
He has systemic knowledge.
Means 'systematic' or 'methodical', often used in scientific or technical contexts to describe a step-by-step approach.
系統的な調査が行われた。
A systemic investigation was conducted.
Describing a disease, drug, or reaction that involves the entire body, not just a local area.
Medical term meaning 'systemic' (affecting the whole body). Used for diseases like lupus or infections that spread throughout the body.
全身性エリテマトーデスは自己免疫疾患です。
Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease.
この薬は全身性の副作用を引き起こす可能性がある。
This drug may cause systemic side effects.
More general term meaning 'whole body'. Less technical than 全身性の, but can be used in similar contexts.
全身の症状が出た。
Systemic symptoms appeared.
Referring to the risk of collapse of an entire financial system or market, rather than just individual entities.
Direct loanword from English, commonly used in financial contexts. Often written in katakana.
大手銀行の破綻はシステミック・リスクを引き起こす。
The failure of a major bank triggers systemic risk.
More descriptive phrase meaning 'system-wide risk'. Used when explaining the concept rather than using the technical term.
システム全体のリスクを管理する必要がある。
We need to manage systemic risk.
In English, 'systemic' means affecting the whole system, while 'systematic' means done according to a plan or method. In Japanese, 体系的な (taikeiteki) and 系統的な (keitouteki) are closer to 'systematic'. Be careful not to use them when you mean 'affecting the whole system'.