Translation guide
The act of casting a vote in an election or decision-making process. In Japanese, the most common word is 投票 (tōhyō), but the way you talk about voting depends on the context—whether it's a formal election, a show of hands, or an informal poll.
Expressing the act of voting in a formal election or referendum.
The standard noun for 'voting' or 'a vote'. Used for elections, referendums, and formal decision-making. Can be used with する to mean 'to vote'.
Means 'election'. Often used in phrases like 'go to the election' to mean 'go to vote'. Not a direct translation of 'voting', but very common in context.
I'm going to vote (lit. go to the election).
Literally 'put in a ballot'. A more concrete way to say 'cast a vote'.
Put a ballot in the ballot box.
Voting by raising hands or saying 'aye' in a meeting.
Casual voting, like an online poll or asking for opinions.
The legal right to vote.
Not voting or choosing to abstain.
投票 (tōhyō) is the act of voting or the vote itself. 選挙 (senkyo) is the election event. You say 投票に行く (go to vote) or 選挙に行く (go to the election). Both are natural, but 投票 is more direct for 'voting'.
In English, 'voting' can mean a show of hands or a quick poll. In Japanese, 投票 usually implies a formal ballot. For a show of hands, use 挙手 (kyoshu). For an informal poll, use アンケート (ankēto) or 簡単な投票 (kantan na tōhyō).
Voting is a fundamental right.
The voting will take place next Sunday.
Online voting is becoming more common.
Popularity vote/contest. Used for things like ranking idols or characters.
Got first place in the popularity vote.
Women's suffrage was granted.
白票を投じる。
Cast a blank ballot.