also: てんが · てんげ
the world; the whole country; society at large
Literally “all under heaven.” In modern Japanese this often sounds grand, literary, or set-phrase-like, referring to the world, the country, or the public at large depending on context.
When he was young, he often debated the affairs of the nation and the world.
If I made a mistake like that, I would become a laughingstock in front of everyone.
rule of the realm; ruling power; control of the country
Used especially in historical or political contexts for gaining, holding, or governing supreme power over a country or realm.
Oda Nobunaga aimed to unify the country under his rule.
Tokugawa Ieyasu took power over the country after the Battle of Sekigahara.
having one's own way; running the show; one's domain
Used in phrases like 〜の天下 to say that someone or something dominates a place or situation and can do as they please.
While the president was away on business, the vice president ran the show.
In this house, the cats rule.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
peerless; incomparable; world-famous
Used before a noun as 天下の〜 to praise something as renowned, outstanding, or of the highest class; often has an emphatic or slightly grand tone.
He is known as a peerless doctor.
Even a world-famous major company can make a bad decision.
Archaic Edo-period usage in which 天下 can refer to the shogun or shogunal authority; not a normal modern standalone meaning.
In Edo-period documents, 天下 can refer to the shogun.
Oda Nobunaga aimed to seize supreme power over the realm.
This workplace is basically his domain right now.
He was a general acclaimed as the finest commander in the land.
The invention quickly became known throughout the whole country.
Tokugawa Ieyasu finally unified the realm.
decisive moment; fateful turning point; climactic battle
ruler of the whole country; person who holds the reins of government
all over the world; throughout the world
sole mastery; reigning supreme; unchallenged dominance
short-lived rule; brief period in power; brief championship
beautiful scenery; superb view
superlative view; magnificent scenery
the whole nation; all the people in the land
seizing control of the country; unifying the realm
common knowledge; widely known
the world and the nation; state of the world; high affairs of state