国体
Meanings
national polity; fundamental character of the state
Refers to the essential nature or structure of a nation, especially in political and historical discourse. Often associated with prewar Japanese ideology.
See also: 国家体制
In prewar Japan, the preservation of the national polity was emphasized.
National Sports Festival; National Athletic Meet
Abbreviation of 国民体育大会 (Kokumin Taiiku Taikai). A major annual multi-sport event in Japan.
See also: 国民体育大会
This year's National Sports Festival will be held in Akita Prefecture.
Usage patterns
- 〈国体〉を守るto defend/preserve the national polity
The prewar government placed the utmost importance on preserving the national polity.
- 〈国体〉に出場するto compete in the National Sports Festival
She ended up competing in this year's National Sports Festival.
- 〈国体〉で優勝するto win the National Sports Festival
That athlete won the National Sports Festival and drew a lot of attention.
- 〈国体〉が開催されるfor the National Sports Festival to be held
Next year, the National Sports Festival will be held in Fukuoka.