also: てんが · てんげ
noun
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.
若いころ、彼はよく天下国家を論じていた。
When he was young, he often debated the affairs of the nation and the world.
あんな失敗をしたら天下の笑いものになる。
If I made a mistake like that, I would become a laughingstock in front of everyone.
noun
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.
織田信長は天下統一を目指した。
Oda Nobunaga aimed to unify the country under his rule.
徳川家康は関ヶ原の戦いの後、天下を取った。
Tokugawa Ieyasu took power over the country after the Battle of Sekigahara.
noun
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.
社長が出張中は、副社長の天下だった。
While the president was away on business, the vice president ran the show.
この家では猫の天下だ。
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.
彼は天下の名医として知られている。
He is known as a peerless doctor.
天下の大企業でも、判断を誤ることはある。
Even a world-famous major company can make a bad decision.
noun
Archaic Edo-period usage in which 天下 can refer to the shogun or shogunal authority; not a normal modern standalone meaning.
江戸時代の文書では、「天下」が将軍を指すことがある。
In Edo-period documents, 天下 can refer to the shogun.