military rule; rule by force
Refers to governance or domination achieved through military power and coercion, often contrasted with 王道 (rule by virtue). Used in historical, political, and philosophical contexts.
彼の政治思想は覇道よりも王道を重んじる。
His political thought values the way of virtue over military rule.
way of the conqueror; path of supremacy
A more abstract or philosophical sense, often used in discussions of leadership styles or historical narratives. Can imply a ruthless pursuit of power.
彼は覇道を歩むことを選び、多くの敵を作った。
He chose the path of supremacy and made many enemies.
歴史的に見ると、その国は覇道によって領土を拡大した。
Historically, that country expanded its territory through military conquest.
王道 is virtuous rule by moral authority, while 覇道 is rule achieved through force or hegemony.
From Chinese 霸道 (bàdào), composed of 覇 ('supremacy') and 道 ('way'). The term has been used in East Asian political philosophy to describe rule by force, as opposed to 王道 (kingly way).