Translation guide
For the general concept of 'the world' as the planet, society, or human existence, the most common Japanese word is 世界 (sekai). However, Japanese has several other words that map to specific nuances of 'the world', such as the Earth as a physical planet, the natural world, or a particular social sphere.
Referring to the world in terms of people, countries, international affairs, or the realm of human activity.
The most common and versatile word for 'the world' in the sense of society, the global community, or the realm of human existence. Used in phrases like 'world peace', 'around the world', and 'the whole world'.
I wish for world peace.
Literally 'in the world/society', often used to talk about the ways of the world, society, or life in general. More abstract and philosophical than 世界.
Refers to the world of people, public opinion, or society at large. Often used when talking about what other people think or social norms.
Referring to the physical planet, the globe, or the Earth as a celestial body.
Specifically the planet Earth. Use this for geographical, environmental, or astronomical contexts.
Referring to the world as nature, the cosmos, or everything that exists.
Means 'nature' or 'the natural world'. Use when talking about the environment, flora and fauna, or natural phenomena.
Referring to a specific field of activity, a social circle, or a specialized domain.
A suffix meaning 'world' or 'circle' in the sense of a specific field or community. Attach to nouns: ビジネス界 (business world), 芸術界 (art world), 科学界 (scientific world).
Emphasizing that something is known or experienced by everyone.
世界 (sekai) is the most general and neutral term for 'the world' as a global entity. 世の中 (yo no naka) is more about society and the way things are, often used in proverbs or philosophical statements. 世間 (seken) specifically refers to the world of people and public opinion, and carries a nuance of social pressure or 'what others think'.
In English, 'the world' is used in many idiomatic expressions that don't directly map to 世界. For example, 'the world of difference' is 雲泥の差 (undei no sa), and 'out of this world' is この世のものとは思えない (kono yo no mono to wa omoenai). Always consider the intended meaning.
The world is full of interesting people.
He traveled around the world.
世の中は厳しい。
The world is a harsh place.
I want to be of use to the world/society.
I'm concerned about what the world/people think.
That's what they say in the world (people say).
The Earth revolves around the sun.
Global warming is a problem.
Can also mean the physical world, but is more commonly used for the human/social world. In contexts like 'world map' or 'world geography', 世界 is natural.
Please look at the world map.
Let's take care of the natural world.
Literally 'heaven and earth', a somewhat literary or philosophical term for the universe or the whole world of nature.
To explore the principles of the universe.
彼は音楽界で有名だ。
He is famous in the music world.
news from the sports world
Can also be used for a specific world or realm, often with a modifier: 夢の世界 (world of dreams), 子供の世界 (children's world).
That's a story from another world.
Means 'all over the world' or 'the whole world'. Often used with verbs like 知っている (know) or 広がる (spread).
The news spread throughout the world.
Can also mean 'everyone' or 'people in general' in a more abstract sense.
Everyone in the world knows.
I want to see the world.
The natural world is beautiful.
自然界 (shizenkai) is another common term for 'the natural world'.