Translation guide
The concept of 'tradition' in Japanese can be expressed through several words and phrases, each with different nuances. The most common and versatile word is 伝統 (dentō), which refers to customs, practices, or cultural heritage passed down through generations. Other expressions include 慣習 (kanshū) for social customs, しきたり (shikitari) for established conventions within a group, and 伝承 (denshō) for oral or folk traditions. The choice depends on whether you're talking about cultural heritage, social customs, or specific traditional practices.
Referring to customs, arts, or practices passed down through generations, especially in a cultural or historical context.
The most common and general word for 'tradition'. It refers to cultural heritage, customs, and practices that are passed down over time. Can be used for both tangible and intangible cultural elements.
Japan has a long tradition.
This festival is an old tradition.
Refers specifically to the transmission of folklore, oral traditions, legends, or skills from generation to generation. Often used in contexts like folk tales, traditional crafts, or performing arts.
Many folk tales have been passed down in this region.
Referring to unwritten rules, social norms, or customary practices within a community or group.
Refers to social customs or conventions that are widely accepted in a society or group. It emphasizes habitual practices rather than formal traditions.
In that country, it is the custom to bow.
Refers to established conventions or unwritten rules within a specific group, family, or community. Often used for traditional procedures or etiquette, such as in ceremonies or formal occasions.
While often translated as 'habit' or 'custom', it can also mean 'tradition' when referring to a long-standing practice in a society. It is broader and can include personal habits as well.
Referring to a specific traditional method, style, or way of doing something, often in arts, crafts, or daily life.
The adjective form meaning 'traditional'. Use this to describe something as being in a traditional style or manner.
I want to eat traditional Japanese cuisine.
He makes pottery in a traditional way.
Refers to ancient or old-style traditions, often used in formal contexts like ceremonies or martial arts. It emphasizes the antiquity and formality of the tradition.
Referring to a tradition specific to a family or individual, often a repeated activity or custom.
伝統 (dentō) is the broadest term for cultural traditions and heritage. 慣習 (kanshū) refers to social customs or conventions, often unwritten rules of behavior. しきたり (shikitari) is used for established conventions within a specific group, like family or community, often with a sense of formality or ritual.
I'm interested in Japanese traditional culture.
In that village, the wedding customs are unique.
The English loanword トラディション (toradishon) is rarely used in natural Japanese. It may appear in some contexts like brand names or titles, but it's not a standard way to express 'tradition'. Stick to the native Japanese words.
It's a tradition to eat turkey on Thanksgiving.
This custom is an old tradition passed down from our ancestors.
We have a tradition of going camping every summer.
結婚式のしきたりに従って、両親に感謝の手紙を読みました。
Following the wedding tradition, we read a letter of thanks to our parents.
お正月に家族で集まるのは日本の習慣です。
Gathering with family on New Year's is a Japanese tradition.
古式にのっとった茶道の儀式が行われました。
A tea ceremony ritual was performed according to ancient tradition.
Our traditional family trip was fun again this year.
In this company, there is a tradition that new employees clean first.