noun
civil union
A legally recognized relationship similar to marriage, often used for same-sex couples. The term is a direct loanword and is used in legal and social contexts in Japan.
一部の国では、同性カップルにシビルユニオンが認められている。
In some countries, civil unions are recognized for same-sex couples.
シビルユニオン制度の導入について議論が続いている。
Debate continues over the introduction of a civil union system.
Direct loanword from English 'civil union', adopted into Japanese with katakana spelling.