At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '規定' (kitei) yourself, but you might see it on signs. Think of it as a very official word for 'Rule.' In Japan, many things have official rules. For example, if you go to a park, there might be a sign with '規定' written on it. It just means 'These are the rules of the park.' At this stage, just remember that if you see this word, it means there is something you 'must' or 'must not' do. It is much more formal than the word 'Rule' (ルール). It usually appears in places like train stations, schools, or parks. You don't need to worry about the grammar yet; just recognize the kanji if you can!
At the A2 level, you should begin to recognize '規定' (kitei) in simple office or school settings. You might hear a teacher or a boss say '規定のサイズ' (kitei no saizu), which means 'the regulation size.' For example, if you are sending a letter at the post office, the clerk might tell you that your envelope is within the '規定' (regulation). You can use it in simple sentences like '規定を守ります' (I will follow the regulations). It is a step up from the word '規則' (kisoku), which you might have learned already. Remember that '規定' is often used for official forms and sizes. If someone gives you a form to fill out, they might call it '規定の用紙' (kitei no yōshi), meaning the 'official form.'
At the B1 level, you should be able to use '規定' (kitei) in your daily professional or academic life. This word is essential for understanding contracts, company policies, and university guidelines. You should know that it can be used as a noun ('規定に従う' - to follow regulations) and as a verb ('規定する' - to stipulate). You will encounter it in phrases like '社内規定' (company regulations) or '規定に基づき' (based on the provisions). This is the level where you distinguish '規定' from '規則' (general rules) and '規約' (terms of service). You should be comfortable reading a basic set of rules at a workplace and identifying what the 'kitei' are. It is a key word for expressing that something is done 'by the book.'
At the B2 level, '規定' (kitei) becomes a tool for precise communication. You should use it when discussing legal matters, formal agreements, or technical standards. You will understand nuances like '規定の範囲内' (within the stipulated range) and be able to explain why something violates a specific 'kitei.' You should also be aware of its homophone '規程' (kitei), which refers to a whole body of internal rules, and use the correct kanji in writing. At this level, you can use the verb '規定する' to define concepts in an essay or a report. For example, 'この論文では、成功を次のように規定する' (In this paper, success is defined as follows). You are expected to handle the formal 'de aru' style where this word frequently appears.
At the C1 level, you possess a deep understanding of '規定' (kitei) within the Japanese legal and bureaucratic framework. You can navigate complex documents like the Civil Code or labor laws where '規定' refers to specific statutory provisions. You understand how '規定' interacts with other legal terms like '条項' (clauses), '補則' (supplementary provisions), and '罰則' (penal provisions). You can use the word in high-level debates about whether a certain action is '規定外' (outside the provisions) or if a law needs to '規定し直す' (be re-stipulated). Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker in professional contexts, and you can explain the historical or kanji-based nuances of why '規定' is used over '定義' (definition) in certain academic contexts.
At the C2 level, you have mastered the philosophical and linguistic subtleties of '規定' (kitei). You can discuss the '規定力' (specifying power) of language or social structures in a sociological or philosophical debate. You are familiar with its use in classical legal texts and can interpret how '規定' has evolved in Japanese jurisprudence. You can write formal legal opinions or academic papers where '規定' is used to meticulously define the boundaries of complex theories. You also understand the aesthetic and cultural implications of 'kitei' in Japanese society—how the emphasis on following 'prescribed' paths influences everything from business etiquette to traditional arts. You can use the word with absolute precision in any register, from the most rigid legal document to a nuanced intellectual discussion.

規定 in 30 Sekunden

  • A formal term for 'regulations' or 'provisions' used in official contexts.
  • Used to describe workplace policies, legal clauses, and technical standards.
  • Can function as a noun (kitei) or a verb (kitei suru - to stipulate).
  • Essential for professional Japanese and understanding formal documentation.

The Japanese word 規定 (きてい - kitei) is a foundational noun in formal, legal, and organizational contexts. At its core, it refers to a set of established rules, stipulations, or provisions that dictate how a particular system, organization, or process should operate. Unlike informal 'rules' (like house rules), kitei carries a weight of authority and is almost always documented in writing. It is the framework upon which order is built in Japanese society.

Legal Context
In the realm of law, 規定 refers to specific clauses or provisions within a statute. When a lawyer says 'According to the provisions of Article 5,' they use the word 規定 to pinpoint the exact legal requirement being cited. It is the 'fine print' that governs the macro-level laws.
Corporate Environment
For employees in Japan, 規定 often appears in the context of 'Employment Regulations' (就業規定 - shūgyō kitei). These are the mandatory rules regarding working hours, holidays, and conduct that every company must establish. If you are asking about your travel reimbursement, you are essentially asking about the 'company provisions' (社内規定).

この行為は社内の規定に違反しています。
(This action is in violation of the company regulations.)

The term is composed of two kanji: 規 (ki), meaning 'standard' or 'measure,' and 定 (tei), meaning 'fix' or 'decide.' Together, they create the image of a 'fixed standard.' This is why the word is used for technical standards in engineering or sports as well. If a baseball bat doesn't meet the 'standard size,' it is said to be outside the kitei.

新しい法律の規定により、手続きが簡略化されました。
(Due to the provisions of the new law, the procedures have been simplified.)

In daily life, you might see this word on signs at parks or public facilities. For instance, 'Park usage regulations' (公園利用規定). It implies that these aren't just suggestions; they are formal requirements established by an authority. Understanding this word helps you navigate the structured nature of Japanese society, where following the 'kitei' is often seen as a mark of reliability and professionalism.

彼は規定の時間を守って登校した。
(He arrived at school at the stipulated time.)

Furthermore, 規定 is often paired with the verb 'suru' (規定する) to mean 'to stipulate' or 'to define.' This is common in academic writing where a researcher might define the scope of their study. 'In this paper, we define (kitei suru) the term as follows...' This highlights the word's versatility—from the rigid rules of a courtroom to the precise definitions of a scientific paper.

Using 規定 (kitei) correctly requires understanding its grammatical flexibility as both a noun and a Suru-verb. It typically appears in structures that describe compliance, violation, or the creation of rules. Because it is a formal word, the sentences it appears in are often polite (Desu/Masu) or written in a formal literary style (Da/De aru).

Noun + Particle
The most common way to use 規定 is as a noun followed by particles like に (to/by), の (possessive), or を (object). For example, '規定に従う' (kitei ni shitagau) means 'to follow the regulations.'

返金については、当社の規定に基づき対応いたします。
(Regarding refunds, we will handle them based on our company's provisions.)

When you want to say something is 'standard' or 'stipulated,' you use 規定 as a prefix. Kitei no saizu (規定のサイズ) means 'the regulation size.' This is frequently used in sports, manufacturing, and logistics. If a parcel exceeds the 'regulation weight,' you will likely hear the word 規定.

Verb Form (規定する)
In more advanced or formal contexts, 規定する (kitei suru) functions as a transitive verb. It means to establish a rule or to define a boundary. '憲法は国民の権利を規定している' (The constitution stipulates the rights of the citizens).

この契約書は、双方の義務を明確に規定している。
(This contract clearly stipulates the obligations of both parties.)

Another frequent pattern is '規定に違反する' (kitei ni ihan suru), meaning 'to violate the regulations.' This is the standard phrase used in legal warnings or HR disciplinary documents. Conversely, '規定を満たす' (kitei o mitasu) means 'to satisfy/meet the requirements.' If you are applying for a scholarship, you must ensure your grades 'meet the regulations.'

彼の作品は、コンクールの規定サイズを超えていた。
(His work exceeded the regulation size for the competition.)

Finally, in administrative contexts, you will see '規定の用紙' (kitei no yōshi), which refers to the 'prescribed form' or 'official form.' If you try to submit a request on a regular piece of paper, a Japanese clerk might politely tell you to use the kitei no yōshi. This emphasizes the importance of following the established protocol down to the very paper used.

You are most likely to encounter 規定 (kitei) in environments where rules and protocols are paramount. While it’s not a word you’d use chatting with friends about dinner, it is everywhere in the 'official' world of Japan. Understanding where it pops up will help you recognize the level of formality of your surroundings.

The Japanese Workplace
In an office, 規定 is the word of the day during orientation. You'll hear about 'Working Regulations' (就業規定), 'Travel Expense Regulations' (旅費規定), and 'Safety Regulations' (安全規定). Managers will use it when referring to company policy: 'It’s against the kitei to work more than 60 hours of overtime.'

出張費の精算は、会社の規定通りに行ってください。
(Please settle your business trip expenses according to the company regulations.)

News broadcasts and newspapers are another major source. When the government introduces a new policy or when a company is caught in a scandal for violating safety standards, the word 規定 is used to describe the specific rules that were either changed or ignored. For example, 'The government updated the safety provisions (anzen kitei) for nuclear power plants.'

Sports and Competitions
In sports like Judo, Baseball, or even Figure Skating, 規定 refers to 'required elements' or 'regulation standards.' In figure skating, 'Kitei Engi' (規定演技) refers to the compulsory figures or segments that every skater must perform to a specific standard.

この荷物は規定の重さを超えています。
(This luggage exceeds the regulation weight.)

Universities and schools also use this term heavily. Graduation requirements, scholarship eligibility, and dormitory rules are all governed by 規定. If a student wants to know if they can take a year off, the office staff will likely say, 'Let's check the university regulations (gakusei kitei).' This implies that the answer isn't up to the staff member's personal opinion but is fixed in the institution's laws.

卒業のための規定単位数を満たしていますか?
(Do you meet the required number of credits for graduation?)

In summary, whenever there is a need for precision, authority, and formal documentation, 規定 is the preferred term. It bridges the gap between general 'rules' and specific, actionable 'provisions' that must be followed to maintain order in a professional or public setting.

While 規定 (kitei) is a common word, learners often confuse it with other Japanese words for 'rules.' Using the wrong word can make you sound slightly 'off' or, in a legal context, lead to misunderstandings. Here are the most common pitfalls to avoid.

規定 (Kitei) vs. 規則 (Kisoku)
This is the most frequent confusion. 規則 (kisoku) is a general term for 'rules' (like school rules or traffic rules). 規定 (kitei) is more specific, referring to the individual provisions or the act of establishing those rules. Think of 規則 as the 'Rulebook' and 規定 as the 'Specific Clauses' within it. However, in many corporate settings, they are used almost interchangeably, but 規定 sounds more formal and legalistic.

❌ 校内の規定を守りましょう。
✅ 校内の規則を守りましょう。
(While not 'wrong,' 規則 is much more natural for general school rules.)

Another common mistake is confusing 規定 (kitei) with 規程 (kitei). Notice they are pronounced the same! However, the second kanji is different. 規程 (ending in 'tei' as in 'process') refers to a complete set of rules governing an organization's internal operations. 規定 (ending in 'tei' as in 'fixed') refers to the individual articles or the act of stipulating. In a company handbook, the whole document might be called the 'Company Kitei (規程),' while a single rule inside is a 'Kitei (規定).'

規定 vs. 法律 (Hōritsu)
法律 refers to the 'Law' passed by a government. 規定 refers to the 'provisions' within that law. If you say 'I broke a 規定,' it sounds like you violated a specific clause of a contract or a company rule. If you say 'I broke a 法律,' it means you committed a crime. Be careful not to downplay a legal offense as just a 'violation of provisions' unless you are speaking in a very technical legal sense.

❌ この規定を破ると逮捕されます。
✅ この法律を破ると逮捕されます。
(You usually get arrested for breaking a law, not just a 'provision' unless it's a specific legal code.)

Finally, watch out for the verb usage. Learners often forget that 規定 is a Suru-verb. Instead of saying '規定を作りました' (I made a regulation), which is okay, it's more professional to say '規定しました' (I stipulated/defined it). Also, remember that 規定 is almost never used for physical 'regulations' of machinery (like a thermostat regulating temperature); for that, use 調整 (chōsei) or 制御 (seigyo).

To truly master 規定 (kitei), you should understand how it sits within a family of words related to rules and standards. Choosing the right synonym can drastically change the tone of your Japanese from 'basic' to 'sophisticated.'

規則 (Kisoku)
As mentioned before, this is the most common alternative. It refers to general rules. Use this for schools, clubs, or traffic.
Example: '交通規則' (Traffic rules).
規約 (Kiyaku)
This word is specifically used for 'agreements' or 'bylaws' between people or members of a group. You'll see this in 'Terms of Service' (利用規約 - riyō kiyaku) for apps and websites. It implies a mutual agreement rather than a top-down command.

アプリを使う前に、利用規約を読んでください。
(Please read the terms of service before using the app.)

If you want to talk about 'standards' in a technical or industrial sense, use 規格 (kikaku). This refers to technical specifications like the size of a screw, the voltage of a battery, or the resolution of a screen. While 規定 is about 'what you must do,' 規格 is about 'how it must be made.'

基準 (Kijun)
This means 'criterion' or 'benchmark.' It is the yardstick used for evaluation. While a 規定 might say 'You must pass the test,' the 基準 is the actual score required to pass (e.g., 70%).

この製品は国際的な規格に合わせて作られています。
(This product is made according to international standards.)

Lastly, consider 条項 (jōkō). This is a very legalistic term meaning 'clause' or 'article' in a contract. If you are debating a specific sentence in a 10-page contract, you are talking about a 規定 (provision) which is contained within a specific 条項 (clause). Using these words correctly will make you sound like a professional who understands the nuances of Japanese administrative language.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

The first kanji '規' originally depicted a person holding a compass, symbolizing the act of creating a perfect circle or standard.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /kiːteɪ/
US /kiːteɪ/
Heiban (Flat) pitch accent in Japanese: きてい (ki-te-i).
Reimt sich auf
shitei (designation) nitei (itinerary) antei (stability) kaitei (revision) seitei (enactment) kettei (decision) hitei (denial) meitei (drunkenness)
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing 'tei' as 'tie' (like necktie). It should be 'tay'.
  • Making the 'ki' too long like 'kee'.
  • Confusing it with 'kitte' (stamp).
  • Dropping the 'i' at the end.
  • Confusing the pitch with 'kite' (come).

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

これは公園の規定です。

This is the park's regulation.

Simple noun + です structure.

2

規定の時間を守ってください。

Please keep to the stipulated time.

規定の modifies the noun 'time'.

3

規定のサイズはこれです。

The regulation size is this.

Using 'no' to show the type of size.

4

規定があります。

There are regulations.

Existence verb 'arimasu'.

5

規定を知りません。

I don't know the regulations.

Direct object with 'o' particle.

6

規定を読みます。

I will read the regulations.

Action verb 'yomimasu'.

7

新しい規定です。

It is a new regulation.

Adjective 'atarashii' modifying the noun.

8

規定はどこですか?

Where are the regulations?

Question form using 'doko'.

1

会社の規定に従います。

I follow the company regulations.

Ni shitagau (follow/obey) is a common pattern.

2

規定の用紙に書いてください。

Please write on the prescribed form.

Kitei no yōshi is a set phrase for 'official form'.

3

このバッグは規定より大きいです。

This bag is larger than the regulation (size).

Yori (than) used for comparison.

4

規定を確認しましたか?

Did you check the regulations?

Kakunin suru (to check) is a common verb with kitei.

5

規定の料金を払います。

I will pay the stipulated fee.

Kitei no ryōkin refers to the official price.

6

それは規定に違反しています。

That is in violation of the regulations.

Ni ihan suru (to violate) is a formal phrase.

7

規定の範囲で遊びましょう。

Let's play within the regulation (boundaries).

Hanni (range/scope) is often modified by kitei.

8

安全規定を読みました。

I read the safety regulations.

Compound noun: Anzen (safety) + Kitei.

1

社内規定により、副業は禁止されています。

According to company regulations, side jobs are prohibited.

Ni yori (according to/due to) shows the basis.

2

返金については規定に基づき判断します。

Regarding refunds, we will judge based on the provisions.

Ni motozuki (based on) is very formal.

3

契約書には、詳細な規定が書かれている。

Detailed provisions are written in the contract.

Passive voice 'kakarete iru'.

4

規定の時間を超えると、残業代が出ます。

If you exceed the stipulated time, overtime pay is provided.

Conditional 'to' used for automatic results.

5

この奨学金には、厳しい規定がある。

This scholarship has strict regulations.

Adjective 'kibishii' (strict) used with kitei.

6

法律で規定された手続きを行ってください。

Please carry out the procedures stipulated by law.

Kitei sareta (stipulated) as a noun modifier.

7

規定外の行動は慎んでください。

Please refrain from actions outside the regulations.

Kiteigai (outside regulations) is a useful compound.

8

新しい就業規定が配布された。

New employment regulations were distributed.

Shūgyō kitei is a formal term for work rules.

1

本規約は、サービスの利用条件を規定するものです。

These terms stipulate the conditions for using the service.

Using the verb form 'kitei suru' to define terms.

2

規定の解釈を巡って、意見が対立している。

Opinions are divided over the interpretation of the provision.

O megutte (concerning/over) shows the topic of debate.

3

彼は規定どおりに作業を進めた。

He proceeded with the work exactly as stipulated.

Dōri (exactly as) attached directly to the noun.

4

憲法第9条の規定を再確認する必要がある。

It is necessary to re-confirm the provisions of Article 9 of the Constitution.

Referring to specific legal articles.

5

その行為は、明らかに規定の範囲を超えている。

That action clearly exceeds the scope of the regulations.

Akiraka ni (clearly) emphasizes the violation.

6

予算の規定により、このプロジェクトは中止された。

Due to budget provisions, this project was cancelled.

Ni yori indicating cause/reason.

7

規定を遵守することは、社会人の基本だ。

Observing regulations is a basic requirement for a member of society.

Junshu suru (to observe/comply) is a formal synonym for follow.

8

このマニュアルは、操作手順を細かく規定している。

This manual stipulates the operating procedures in detail.

Komakaku (finely/in detail) modifying the verb.

1

民法には、契約の無効に関する規定がある。

The Civil Code contains provisions regarding the invalidity of contracts.

Ni kansuru (regarding) used in a legal context.

2

法改正により、罰則規定が強化された。

Due to the legal amendment, the penal provisions were strengthened.

Bassoku kitei (penal provisions) is a technical term.

3

この条項は、将来の紛争を未然に防ぐよう規定されている。

This clause is stipulated to prevent future disputes before they occur.

Mizen ni fusegu (prevent beforehand) + kitei sarete iru.

4

規定の不備を指摘され、修正を余儀なくされた。

Shortcomings in the provisions were pointed out, forcing a revision.

O yoginaku sareta (was forced to) is a high-level expression.

5

労働基準法は、最低賃金を規定している。

The Labor Standards Act stipulates the minimum wage.

Specific law name + kitei shite iru.

6

規定の適用範囲を明確にする必要がある。

It is necessary to clarify the scope of application of the regulations.

Tekiyō hanni (scope of application) is a formal phrase.

7

その主張は、既存の規定と矛盾している。

That claim contradicts existing regulations.

Mujun shite iru (is contradictory) used with kitei.

8

暗黙の了解を明文化し、規定として定めた。

The tacit understanding was put into writing and established as a regulation.

Meibunka (put into writing) is a C1-level concept.

1

法規範が社会秩序を規定するメカニズムを考察する。

We will examine the mechanism by which legal norms stipulate social order.

Highly academic use of 'kitei suru' as 'to determine/stipulate'.

2

規定の文言を厳格に解釈すれば、例外は認められない。

If the wording of the provision is interpreted strictly, no exceptions are allowed.

Mongon (wording) and genkaku ni (strictly) are C2 vocabulary.

3

本法案は、個人の自由を不当に規定する恐れがある。

This bill risks unduly stipulating (restricting) individual freedoms.

Futō ni (unduly/unjustly) + osore ga aru (there is a risk).

4

条約の規定に基づき、国際的な協力体制を構築する。

Based on the provisions of the treaty, an international cooperation system will be built.

Jōyaku (treaty) is a top-level diplomatic term.

5

規定が形骸化し、実効性を失っている現状を憂慮する。

I am concerned about the current situation where regulations have become a mere shell and lost their effectiveness.

Keigaika (becoming a mere shell) is a sophisticated C2 term.

6

言語活動が思考を規定するという仮説を検証する。

We will verify the hypothesis that linguistic activity stipulates (determines) thought.

Linguistic determinism expressed using 'kitei suru'.

7

補則規定により、経過措置が設けられた。

Supplementary provisions have established transitional measures.

Keika sochi (transitional measures) is highly technical.

8

規定の趣旨を汲み取り、柔軟に対応することが求められる。

It is required to grasp the intent of the regulations and respond flexibly.

Shushi o kumitoru (grasp the intent) is an idiomatic C2 phrase.

Häufige Kollokationen

規定に従う
規定に違反する
規定を設ける
規定のサイズ
規定に基づき
社内規定
安全規定
規定の用紙
罰則規定
規定を改定する

Häufige Phrasen

規定通り

— Exactly as the regulations state. Used to confirm a process followed the manual.

規定通りに処理しました。

規定外

— Outside of the regulations. Used for exceptions or non-standard items.

このケースは規定外です。

就業規定

— Employment regulations. The contract rules for working at a company.

就業規定を読み直す。

旅費規定

— Travel expense regulations. Rules for getting reimbursed for business trips.

旅費規定を確認する。

利用規定

— Usage regulations. Rules for using a facility or service.

公園の利用規定。

法的規定

— Legal provisions. Specific rules defined within the law.

法的規定に従う。

規定打席

— Regulation plate appearances. A baseball term for the minimum number of times a player must bat.

規定打席に達する。

規定演技

— Compulsory performance. Required elements in sports like skating.

規定演技で高得点を出す。

規定枚数

— Prescribed number of pages/sheets. Often used for essays or reports.

規定枚数を満たす。

規定集

— A collection of regulations. A physical or digital book of rules.

規定集を配布する。

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"規定の事実"

— An established fact or a foregone conclusion.

彼の優勝は規定の事実だ。

Formal
"規定の路線"

— A pre-established course or plan. Often used for political or corporate paths.

規定の路線を進む。

Formal
"規定の枠を超える"

— To go beyond the established boundaries or expectations.

彼の才能は規定の枠を超えている。

Neutral
"規定の概念"

— A fixed concept or conventional idea.

規定の概念を打ち破る。

Academic
"規定の主旨"

— The main point or spirit of a regulation.

規定の主旨を理解する。

Formal
"規定に縛られる"

— To be restricted or bound by regulations.

規定に縛られて自由がない。

Neutral
"規定を盾にする"

— To use regulations as a shield to avoid taking action or responsibility.

彼は規定を盾にして断った。

Neutral
"規定が骨抜きになる"

— For a regulation to become watered down or lose its power.

新しい法律で規定が骨抜きになった。

Formal
"規定の空文化"

— A regulation becoming a 'dead letter' (exists on paper but not enforced).

その規定は空文化している。

Formal
"規定の適用"

— The application of a regulation to a specific case.

規定の適用を検討する。

Formal

Wortfamilie

Substantive

規程 (kitei - internal rules)
規則 (kisoku - rules)
規格 (kikaku - standards)
規約 (kiyaku - terms)

Verben

規定する (kitei suru - to stipulate)
定める (sadamu - to establish)

Adjektive

規定的 (kiteiteki - stipulative/prescriptive)

Verwandt

規則正しい (kisoku tadashii - regular/orderly)
定規 (jōgi - ruler)
規模 (kibo - scale)
規範 (kihan - norm)
定理 (teiri - theorem)

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'Key' (ki) that 'Stays' (tei) in place. A regulation is a key rule that stays fixed.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a person holding a large wooden compass (規) and nailing a sign to a wall (定) that says 'OFFICIAL RULES'.

Word Web

Law Contract Company Compliance Standard Stipulation Clause Manual

Herausforderung

Try to find one 'kitei' in your own life today—perhaps a rule at your gym or a policy at your office—and describe it using 'kitei ni motozuki' (based on the regulations).

Wortherkunft

Borrowed from Middle Chinese. The compound consists of 'ki' (compass/standard) and 'tei' (fixed/settled).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To measure with a compass and fix a standard.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

Be aware that 'kitei' can sometimes sound bureaucratic or inflexible. Using it too much in casual settings can make you seem cold.

In English-speaking cultures, we might use 'policy' or 'rules.' 'Provision' is closer to the legal nuance of kitei.

Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution (憲法第9条の規定) ISO standards (国際規定) Corporate Compliance manuals.
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