憲法
also: けんぼう
Meanings
The fundamental law of a state or political system, as in 日本国憲法. This is the main modern meaning.
The Constitution of Japan came into effect in 1947.
Debate continues in the Diet over constitutional revision.
rules; regulations; basic principles
Less common than the political sense; used for fundamental rules or governing principles of a group, household, or system, often with a slightly formal or figurative feel.
"No looking at phones during meals" is the rule in our house.
Usage patterns
- 憲法を制定するto enact a constitution
This country enacted a new constitution soon after independence.
- 憲法を改正するto amend the constitution
Amending the constitution requires a vote in the Diet.
- 憲法に違反するto violate the constitution
The law was criticized for violating the constitution.
- 憲法を守るto uphold the constitution
Politicians have a duty to uphold the constitution.
- 憲法に基づくto be based on the constitution
This ruling was handed down based on the constitution.