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A1 noun #3,184 most common 10 min read

学位

gakui Top 3,184

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 学位 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 学位 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you only need to know that '学位 (gakui)' means 'degree' from a university. You might use it in very simple sentences like 'I want a degree' (学位がほしいです) or 'I have a degree' (学位を持っています). At this stage, don't worry about the complex kanji characters; just focus on the sound 'ga-ku-i' and the fact that it is a noun used for university graduation. It is a useful word if you are a student or if you are talking about your goals. You can think of it as a 'level up' in school. When you finish a big school like a university, you get a 'gakui'. It is like a trophy for studying hard for many years. Remember, it is a formal word, so it sounds very polite and serious.

At the A2 level, you should start to understand how '学位 (gakui)' fits into sentences with basic verbs. You will learn to say '大学で学位を取りました' (I got a degree at university). You should also begin to recognize the different levels of degrees, like '学士' (Bachelor's). At this level, you might use 'gakui' when introducing yourself in a formal way or when talking about your family's education. You should also be careful not to use it for temperature or angles, which is a common mistake for English speakers. In A2, you are building the foundation to talk about your life and achievements, and 'gakui' is a key part of that if you have attended university. You might also see this word on posters for universities or in simple news stories about students.

By B1, you should be comfortable using '学位 (gakui)' in more complex grammar structures. You can explain the purpose of your studies using phrases like '学位を取得するために、一生懸命勉強しています' (I am studying hard in order to obtain a degree). You will also encounter the word in the context of job hunting (shūshoku katsudō). You should know that 'gakui' is a formal noun and is often paired with the verb '取得する' (shutoku suru - to acquire) in official documents. You might also start to see related terms like '学位論文' (gakui ronbun - thesis). At this level, you should understand that 'gakui' represents a specific achievement that is different from just 'graduating' (sotsugyō). You can discuss the requirements for a degree in your country and compare them with Japan.

At the B2 level, you are expected to understand the nuances of '学位 (gakui)' in professional and academic settings. You should know the difference between 'gakui' (the degree) and 'shikaku' (a professional qualification or license). You will likely hear this word in lectures, news reports about the economy and education, and in formal business meetings. You should be able to use the word to discuss 'degree inflation' or the importance of advanced degrees in the modern workforce. You can use phrases like '学位の価値' (the value of a degree) or '学位授与式' (degree conferral ceremony). At this stage, your vocabulary should include specific degree types like '修士' (Master's) and '博士' (Doctorate) and how they are used as titles in Japanese society.

At the C1 level, you should have a deep understanding of the sociopolitical implications of '学位 (gakui)' in Japan. You can discuss the 'Gakureki Shakai' (degree-oriented society) and how the pursuit of 'gakui' affects social mobility and corporate hiring practices. You should be able to read academic papers that mention '学位' and understand the formal procedures for '学位申請' (degree application). You will also be familiar with '名誉学位' (honorary degrees) and the protocol for awarding them. Your usage of the word should be precise, distinguishing between the physical '学位記' (diploma) and the abstract '学位' (rank). You can engage in complex debates about whether traditional 'gakui' are still relevant in the age of digital certifications and specialized technical training.

At the C2 level, you possess a native-like grasp of '学位 (gakui)' and its various connotations. You can analyze the historical evolution of the 'gakui' system in Japan, from the Meiji era to the present day. You understand the legal definitions of degrees as defined by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT). You can navigate the most formal academic environments, such as defending a '博士学位論文' (doctoral dissertation), using appropriate honorifics and technical terminology. You are also aware of international 'degree recognition' (gakui no shōnin) issues and the nuances of how foreign degrees are translated and valued within the Japanese professional hierarchy. Your command of the word allows you to use it with absolute precision in any context, from high-level academic discourse to legal documentation.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

学位 in 30 Seconds

学位 (Gakui) is the formal Japanese word for an academic degree, essential for university and career contexts.
It consists of 'Gaku' (study) and 'I' (rank), literally meaning the rank of one's learning achievement.
Common levels include Gakushi (Bachelor's), Shūshi (Master's), and Hakushi (Doctorate), each requiring specific years of study.
It is strictly academic; do not use it for temperature or angles, which use the counter 'do' (度).

The Japanese word 学位 (Gakui) refers specifically to an academic degree. While the English word 'degree' can refer to temperature, angles, or levels of intensity, the Japanese term is strictly confined to the realm of higher education. It is a formal designation granted by an accredited institution, such as a university or college, signifying that a student has completed a rigorous program of study. In the Japanese societal context, possessing a gakui is not just a personal achievement but a critical credential that dictates one's career trajectory, social standing, and professional opportunities. The word is composed of two kanji characters: 学 (gaku), meaning 'study' or 'learning', and 位 (i), meaning 'rank', 'position', or 'grade'. Together, they literally translate to 'rank of learning'.

Academic Context: Used when discussing university graduation requirements, research qualifications, and official certifications of knowledge.
Professional Context: Commonly found on resumes (rirekisho), job descriptions, and during recruitment processes to specify required qualifications.
Social Context: Often mentioned in biographies, introductions of experts on television programs, or when discussing the educational background of public figures.

In Japan, the hierarchy of gakui is very structured. It begins with the 学士 (Gakushi - Bachelor's), followed by the 修士 (Shūshi - Master's), and culminates in the 博士 (Hakase/Hakushi - Doctorate). When someone says they are 'working toward a degree', they would use the verb 取得する (shutoku suru), which means 'to acquire' or 'to obtain'. Unlike 'graduating' (sotsugyō), which focuses on the act of finishing school, gakui focuses on the credential itself. For instance, one can graduate from a vocational school without receiving a gakui, as degrees are specifically tied to university-level academic standards.

彼は海外の大学で経済学の学位を取得しました。 (He obtained a degree in economics from an overseas university.)

When browsing job listings in Japan, you will frequently see the phrase 学位不問 (Gakui fumon), which means 'degree not required'. Conversely, for research or high-level technical positions, 修士以上の学位 (Shūshi ijō no gakui)—a Master's degree or higher—is often a strict prerequisite. In academic writing, the term is used with high frequency, often accompanied by the specific field of study, such as 文学学位 (Bungaku gakui - Degree in Literature) or 理学学位 (Rigaku gakui - Degree in Science). Understanding this word is essential for navigating the Japanese educational system and professional world, as it serves as the primary currency of intellectual merit.

その職に就くためには、博士学位が必要です。 (A doctoral degree is required to take that position.)

彼女は二つの異なる分野で学位を持っています。 (She holds degrees in two different fields.)

日本の大学で学位を授与された。 (I was awarded a degree by a Japanese university.)

名誉学位が有名な作家に贈られた。 (An honorary degree was presented to the famous author.)

Common Verbs: 取得する (To obtain), 授与する (To award), 持つ (To have/hold), 申請する (To apply for).
Synonymous Concepts: 資格 (Qualification), 称号 (Title), 卒業証書 (Diploma).

Using 学位 (Gakui) correctly involves understanding its role as a formal noun. It is most frequently paired with verbs of acquisition or possession. When you want to say you 'got' a degree, you should use 取得する (shutoku suru) or 取る (toru). The latter is slightly more conversational but still perfectly acceptable in most contexts. For example, 「大学で学位を取りました」 (I got a degree at university) is a standard way to express this achievement. If you are describing someone else's credentials, you might say 「彼は博士の学位を持っています」 (He has a doctoral degree).

Direct Object Usage: 学位を + Verb (e.g., 学位を授与する - to confer a degree).
Possessive Usage: [Field]の学位 (e.g., 工学の学位 - a degree in engineering).
Requirement Usage: 学位が必要だ (A degree is necessary).

In formal documents, such as academic transcripts or government forms, you will see the term 学位記 (Gakuiki), which refers to the actual physical certificate or diploma that proves you have the degree. However, in daily conversation, gakui is sufficient to cover both the abstract rank and the physical proof. It is also important to note that gakui is an 'uncountable' concept in the sense that you don't usually 'count' them with generic counters; you simply state the number followed by the specific degree type, or use 複数の学位 (fukusuu no gakui) for 'multiple degrees'.

将来、心理学の学位を取りたいと思っています。 (I want to obtain a degree in psychology in the future.)

When discussing the process of earning a degree, you might encounter the term 学位論文 (Gakui ronbun). This refers to the thesis or dissertation required to graduate. In Japan, the 'Ronbun' is the final hurdle for most gakui, especially at the Master's and Doctoral levels. If a student is 'all but dissertation', they are said to have 単位取得満期退学 (tan'i shutoku manki taigaku), meaning they completed the credits but did not receive the gakui itself. This distinction is vital in Japanese academia.

彼は学位論文の執筆に追われています。 (He is busy writing his degree thesis.)

Another nuance is the difference between gakui and shikaku (qualification). While a gakui is an academic rank, a shikaku is often a professional license, like a lawyer's license or a medical license. While a degree in medicine (igakushi) is usually required to take the medical license exam, the degree itself is the gakui, and the license to practice is the shikaku. Mixing these up in a professional setting can lead to confusion about your legal right to perform certain jobs.

多くの専門職では、特定の学位が必須条件となっています。 (In many specialized professions, a specific degree is a mandatory requirement.)

You will encounter the word 学位 (Gakui) in several key environments. The most obvious is the university campus. During orientation, professors will discuss the requirements for the gakui. At graduation ceremonies, the president of the university will formally announce the gakui juyo (conferring of degrees). If you are a student in Japan, you will see this word on your curriculum maps and in the university bulletin. It is the 'gold standard' toward which all your academic efforts are directed.

卒業式で、学長から学位が授与された。 (At the graduation ceremony, the degree was conferred by the president.)

Outside of the ivory tower, gakui is a staple of the Japanese labor market. HR professionals use it constantly when screening candidates. In Japan, the 'shinsotsu' (new graduate) recruitment season is a massive event where students' gakui status is their primary calling card. You will hear it in job interviews when an interviewer asks, 「どのような学位をお持ちですか？」 (What kind of degree do you hold?). It also appears in news reports discussing the 'value' of education or the rising number of people seeking advanced degrees later in life (shakaijin gakusei).

Television & News: Used to introduce 'experts' (yuushikisha) or researchers during panel discussions.
Recruitment Websites: Filtering options often include 'Bachelor's', 'Master's', or 'Doctorate' under the 'Gakui' category.
Government Publications: Statistics regarding national education levels (MEXT reports).

Interestingly, you might also hear gakui in the context of international relations or 'diplomacy of education'. When Japanese leaders meet foreign dignitaries who have studied in Japan, or vice versa, the shared gakui is often used as a bridge for 'soft power'. For instance, an honorary degree (meiyo gakui) might be given to a foreign head of state to strengthen ties between nations. This highlights that the word carries a weight of respect and formal recognition that transcends simple schooling.

彼はアメリカの大学で修士学位を得た後、帰国した。 (After obtaining a Master's degree at an American university, he returned home.)

Finally, in the age of online learning and 'MOOCs', the conversation around gakui is changing. You might hear people debating whether a 'micro-credential' or a 'nanodegree' counts as a gakui in the traditional sense. In Japanese, these are often distinguished from 'formal degrees' by being called shūryō-shō (certificates of completion) rather than gakui, showing how the term remains a protected and prestigious label for university education.

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is using 学位 (Gakui) to mean 'temperature degrees' or 'angle degrees'. In Japanese, temperature is measured in do (度), and angles are also do (度). For example, '30 degrees Celsius' is sesshi sanjū-do, NOT sanjū gakui. Using gakui in these contexts will result in complete confusion, as it sounds like you are saying '30 academic ranks'.

❌ 今日の気温は30学位です。 (Today's temperature is 30 academic degrees.)
✅ 今日の気温は30度です。 (Today's temperature is 30 degrees.)

Another common error is confusing gakui with gakureki. While they are related, they are not interchangeable. Gakureki refers to your 'educational background' or 'academic pedigree'—the list of schools you attended. Gakui is the specific degree you earned. If someone asks about your gakureki, they want to know you went to Tokyo University. If they ask about your gakui, they want to know you have a Master's in Physics. Using gakui when you mean the school name is a common slip-up.

Gakui vs. Gakureki: Gakui = The Degree (Master's, PhD). Gakureki = The School History (Harvard, Todai).
Gakui vs. Shikaku: Gakui = Academic Rank. Shikaku = Professional License/Qualification (CPA, Nurse).
Gakui vs. Sotsugyō: Gakui = The Credential. Sotsugyō = The Act of Graduating.

A subtle mistake involves the verb 'to study for'. In English, we might say 'I am studying for my degree'. In Japanese, saying gakui no tame ni benkyō suru is grammatically correct but sounds a bit unnatural. Usually, Japanese speakers would say gakui shutoku o mezashite benkyō suru (studying with the goal of obtaining a degree) or simply daigaku de benkyō suru (studying at university). The focus is more on the 'obtaining' (shutoku) than the 'for' (tame ni).

Lastly, be careful with the word hakase/hakushi. While hakase is the common reading for 'Doctor' (PhD), the formal term for the degree is hakushi gakui. In very formal contexts, you should use the hakushi reading. Also, remember that gakui is a formal word. In extremely casual settings among friends, people might just say daigaku deta (finished university) rather than discussing their gakui, unless the specific level (like a Master's) is relevant to the conversation.

While 学位 (Gakui) is the umbrella term for all academic degrees, there are several specific terms and synonyms you should know to sound more natural and precise. Depending on the level of education or the context of the conversation, you might choose a more specific word.

学士 (Gakushi): Bachelor's Degree. This is the 'standard' degree earned after four years of university. Example: 学士号 (Gakushigō).
修士 (Shūshi): Master's Degree. Usually earned after two years of post-graduate study. Often required for research positions.
博士 (Hakase / Hakushi): Doctoral Degree (PhD). The highest academic rank. Used for professors and high-level researchers.

When you want to refer to a 'title' rather than just the degree, you might use 称号 (Shōgō). This is a broader term that can include honorary titles or ranks that aren't strictly academic degrees. For example, a 'Master of Tea Ceremony' might have a shōgō, but not a gakui. Another related term is 資格 (Shikaku), which means 'qualification' or 'license'. While a degree is a type of qualification, shikaku is much broader and includes things like driver's licenses or diving certificates.

彼は修士の学位を持っていますが、教員免許という資格は持っていません。 (He has a Master's degree, but he doesn't have the qualification of a teaching license.)

In a professional setting, people often talk about 学歴 (Gakureki). While gakui is about the 'what' (the degree), gakureki is about the 'where' and 'when' (the history of schools). In Japan, gakureki is often emphasized more than the specific gakui, especially for undergraduate students. However, for specialized careers, the gakui becomes the more important term. If you are applying for a job, you list your gakureki on your CV, and your gakui is a component of that history.

Finally, the term ディグリー (Deigurī) is occasionally used as a loanword, particularly in international business or modern tech circles, but gakui remains the standard and most respected term. If you want to sound educated and formal, always stick with gakui. It carries the weight of Japanese academic tradition and is universally understood across all professional levels.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

Before the Meiji period, Japan had scholars but no formal 'degree' system. The first PhD (Hakushi) degrees were awarded in 1888 to 25 people, including famous names like Nishi Amane.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /ɡakɯi/

US /ɡakui/

Flat (Heiban) accent. The pitch stays relatively level throughout the word.

Rhymes With

悪意 (Akui - Malice) 各員 (Kakuin - Each person) 白衣 (Hakui - White coat) 落第 (Rakudai - Failing) 覚悟 (Kakugo - Resolution) 確認 (Kakunin - Confirmation) 学習 (Gakushū - Learning) 学校 (Gakkō - School)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it as 'ga-kwee' (rhyming with queen). It should be three distinct syllables: ga-ku-i.
Misidentifying the pitch as rising on the second syllable.
Confusing the 'i' sound with 'ee' in English, making it too long.
Adding a 'w' sound between 'ku' and 'i'.
Stress-timing the word like English; Japanese is mora-timed.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji are common but require N3-N2 level recognition for fluid reading.

Writing 4/5

The kanji for 'i' (位) and 'gaku' (学) are basic, but the compound is formal.

Speaking 2/5

Simple pronunciation, easy to incorporate into self-introductions.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound, usually clear in academic or formal contexts.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

大学 (Daigaku) 勉強 (Benkyō) 卒業 (Sotsugyō) 学生 (Gakusei) 先生 (Sensei)

Learn Next

修士 (Shūshi) 博士 (Hakushi) 論文 (Ronbun) 研究 (Kenkyū) 資格 (Shikaku)

Advanced

学際的 (Gakusaiteki) 教授会 (Kyōjukai) 単位 (Tan'i) 奨学金 (Shōgakukin) 学術誌 (Gakujutsushi)

Grammar to Know

Noun + の + Noun

経済学の学位 (Degree of Economics)

Verb (Dictionary Form) + ために

学位を取るために勉強する (Study in order to get a degree)

Noun + を + Verb

学位を取得する (To acquire a degree)

Noun + が + ある/いる

学位がある (To have a degree)

Passive Form (授与される)

学位を授与された (Was awarded a degree)

Examples by Level

私は大学の学位がほしいです。

I want a university degree.

Uses the basic 'ga hoshii' pattern for desire.

彼は学位を持っています。

He has a degree.

Uses 'motte imasu' to indicate possession.

学位は大切ですか？

Is a degree important?

A simple question with the 'wa' particle.

お父さんは学位があります。

My father has a degree.

Uses 'ga arimasu' to state existence/possession.

私は学位のために勉強します。

I study for a degree.

Uses 'no tame ni' to show purpose.

これは私の学位です。

This is my degree.

Basic 'kore wa ... desu' structure.

いつ学位を取りますか？

When will you get your degree?

Uses 'itsu' (when) and the verb 'toru' (to take/get).

学位は難しいです。

A degree is difficult.

Simple adjective 'muzukashii' modifying the noun.

日本の大学で学位を取りたいです。

I want to get a degree at a Japanese university.

Combines location 'de' with the 'tai' desire form.

彼女は経済学の学位を持っています。

She has a degree in economics.

Uses 'no' to specify the field of study.

学位を取得するのは大変です。

Obtaining a degree is hard work.

Uses 'no wa' to turn the verb phrase into a subject.

兄は去年、学位をもらいました。

My brother received his degree last year.

Uses the past tense 'moraimashita'.

学位がないと、この仕事はできません。

Without a degree, you cannot do this job.

Uses the 'nai to' conditional (if not/without).

有名な大学の学位は役に立ちます。

A degree from a famous university is useful.

Uses 'yaku ni tachimasu' (to be useful).

学位の種類について教えてください。

Please tell me about the types of degrees.

Uses 'ni tsuite' (about) and 'oshiete kudasai' (please tell/teach).

彼は三つの学位を持っています。

He has three degrees.

Uses a number directly before the noun.

学位を取得するために、毎日図書館で勉強しています。

In order to obtain a degree, I study in the library every day.

Uses 'tame ni' for a clear purpose and 'te-iru' for ongoing action.

専門的な職に就くには、修士以上の学位が必要です。

To get a specialized job, a Master's degree or higher is required.

Uses 'ni wa' for requirements and 'ijō' for 'or more'.

彼は学位論文を書き終えるのに苦労しました。

He struggled to finish writing his degree thesis.

Uses 'no ni' to show the context of the struggle.

学位記を紛失した場合は、再発行が可能です。

If you lose your degree certificate, it is possible to have it reissued.

Uses 'baai' (in the case of) and 'kanō' (possible).

海外で取得した学位は、日本でも認められますか？

Is a degree obtained abroad recognized in Japan as well?

Uses the passive 'mitomeraremasu' (is recognized).

彼女は働きながら学位を取ることに決めました。

She decided to get a degree while working.

Uses 'nagara' (while) and 'koto ni kimeta' (decided to).

学位授与式は、学生にとって最も誇らしい瞬間です。

The degree conferral ceremony is the proudest moment for students.

Uses 'ni totte' (for/from the perspective of).

彼は心理学の学位を活かして、カウンセラーになりました。

Utilizing his psychology degree, he became a counselor.

Uses 'ikashite' (making use of/utilizing).

近年、学位の価値が以前ほど高くなくなっていると言われています。

It is said that in recent years, the value of a degree is not as high as it used to be.

Uses 'to iwarete iru' (it is said that) and comparisons with 'hodo'.

博士学位を取得するには、独自の調査と研究が不可欠です。

To obtain a doctoral degree, original investigation and research are indispensable.

Uses 'fukaketsu' (indispensable) and specific academic vocabulary.

彼は名誉学位を授与された際、感動的なスピーチを行いました。

When he was awarded the honorary degree, he gave a moving speech.

Uses 'sai' (a formal version of 'toki').

学位不問の求人であっても、実際には学歴が重視されることが多い。

Even for job openings where a degree is not required, in reality, educational background is often emphasized.

Uses 'de atte mo' (even if it is) and 'jūshi sareru' (is emphasized).

彼女は二つの異なる分野で、同時に学位を取得するダブルメジャーに挑戦した。

She challenged a double major to obtain degrees in two different fields simultaneously.

Uses 'dōji ni' (simultaneously) and 'chōsen shita' (challenged/attempted).

学位の名称は、大学や学部によって多少異なる場合があります。

The name of the degree may vary slightly depending on the university or department.

Uses 'ni yotte' (depending on) and 'baai ga aru' (there are cases where).

彼は長年の研究成果が認められ、ついに学位を授けられました。

His years of research results were recognized, and he was finally granted a degree.

Uses 'tsuini' (finally) and the honorific-adjacent 'sazukerareta'.

学位を取得した後のキャリアパスについて、真剣に考える必要があります。

It is necessary to think seriously about one's career path after obtaining a degree.

Uses 'hitsuyō ga aru' (there is a necessity).

学位のインフレ化が進む中で、実務経験の重要性が再認識されている。

Amidst the ongoing inflation of degrees, the importance of practical experience is being re-recognized.

Uses 'naka de' (amidst) and 'sai-ninshiki' (re-recognition).

彼は学位申請のための厳しい審査を、見事に通過した。

He brilliantly passed the rigorous screening for his degree application.

Uses 'migoto ni' (brilliantly/splendidly) and 'shinsa' (screening/review).

日本の学位制度は、国際的な基準に合わせるために改革が進められてきた。

The Japanese degree system has been undergoing reforms to align with international standards.

Uses 'susumerarete kita' (has been being advanced/promoted).

特定の学位を保持していることは、その分野における専門知識の証明となる。

Holding a specific degree serves as proof of expertise in that field.

Uses 'hoji shite iru koto' (the act of holding/possessing).

学術界において、学位は単なる称号ではなく、研究者としての責任を伴うものである。

In the academic world, a degree is not just a title; it entails responsibility as a researcher.

Uses 'tannaru ... dewa naku' (not merely ...) and 'tomonau' (to accompany/entail).

学位論文の剽窃問題は、大学の信頼性を根本から揺るがす事態である。

The issue of plagiarism in degree theses is a situation that shakes the reliability of a university from its very foundation.

Uses 'konpon kara yurugasu' (shake from the roots/foundation).

彼は複数の専門分野で学位を有しており、学際的なアプローチを得意としている。

He possesses degrees in multiple specialized fields and excels at interdisciplinary approaches.

Uses 'yūshite ori' (possesses and...) and 'gakusaiteki' (interdisciplinary).

学位の称号を濫用することは、倫理的に許されることではない。

Abusing the title of a degree is not ethically permissible.

Uses 'ran'yō' (abuse/misuse) and 'yurusareru koto dewa nai' (is not something allowed).

学位授与権の行使は、高等教育機関としての自律性と公的責任の象徴である。

The exercise of the power to confer degrees is a symbol of autonomy and public responsibility for higher education institutions.

Uses high-level kanji compounds like 'kōshi' (exercise) and 'jiritsusei' (autonomy).

現代社会における学位の機能は、知識の習得証明から、社会階層の再生産装置へと変質しているという批判がある。

There is criticism that the function of degrees in modern society has transformed from proof of knowledge acquisition to a device for reproducing social classes.

Uses 'hensitsu' (transformation/degeneration) and 'reproduction device' (saiseisan sōchi).

博士学位の取得過程における徒弟制度的な側面は、現代の教育システムにおいて再考を迫られている。

The apprenticeship-like aspects of the doctoral degree acquisition process are being forced to be reconsidered in the modern education system.

Uses 'totei seidoteki' (apprenticeship-like) and 'saikō o semararete iru' (is being forced to reconsider).

学位の質を担保するための厳格な外部評価システムの構築が、大学改革の喫緊の課題となっている。

Constructing a rigorous external evaluation system to guarantee the quality of degrees has become an urgent task for university reform.

Uses 'tanpo' (guarantee/collateral) and 'kikkin no kadai' (urgent issue).

グローバル化に伴い、学位の互換性と質保証の枠組みを国際的に整備することが求められている。

With globalization, there is a demand for international development of frameworks for degree compatibility and quality assurance.

Uses 'gokansei' (compatibility) and 'seibi suru' (to organize/develop).

彼は学位論文を通じて、既存のパラダイムを覆す革新的な理論を提唱した。

Through his degree thesis, he proposed an innovative theory that overturned existing paradigms.

Uses 'paradigm o kutsugaesu' (overturn the paradigm) and 'teishō' (proposal/advocacy).

名誉博士学位の授与は、往々にして学術的功績のみならず、政治的・社会的な文脈を包含する。

The conferral of an honorary doctorate often encompasses not only academic merit but also political and social contexts.

Uses 'ōōni shite' (often/frequently) and 'hōgan' (inclusion/encompassing).

学位は知の追求の終着点ではなく、学問的真理を探究し続けるための出発点に過ぎない。

A degree is not the end point of the pursuit of knowledge, but merely a starting point for continuing to explore academic truth.

Uses 'shūchakuten' (end point) and 'ni suginai' (nothing more than).

Synonyms

博士号修士号学士号称号資格

Antonyms

退学中退

Common Collocations

学位を取得する

学位を授与する

学位を持つ

学位論文

修士の学位

博士の学位

名誉学位

学位記授与式

学位不問

学位を申請する

Common Phrases

学位を取る

— To get a degree. This is the most common conversational way to say you graduated.

早く学位を取って働きたい。

学位がある

— To have a degree. Used to state one's status.

彼には工学の学位がある。

学位が必要

— A degree is necessary. Used for job requirements.

応募には学位が必要だ。

学位を活かす

— To make use of one's degree in a job or life.

学位を活かせる仕事を探す。

学位を授ける

— To grant a degree. Formal usage by institutions.

学長が学生に学位を授けた。

学位の価値

— The value/worth of a degree.

学位の価値を問い直す。

学位審査

— Degree examination/screening.

学位審査に合格した。

学位プログラム

— Degree program.

新しい学位プログラムが始まる。

学位を目指す

— To aim for a degree.

博士の学位を目指して研究する。

学位保持者

— A degree holder.

学位保持者の初任給は高い。

Often Confused With

学位 vs 学歴 (Gakureki)

Gakureki is the history of schools you attended, while Gakui is the specific degree earned.

学位 vs 資格 (Shikaku)

Shikaku is a license or qualification (like a lawyer), whereas Gakui is an academic rank.

学位 vs 度 (Do)

Do is used for temperature or angles; Gakui is only for education.

Idioms & Expressions

"学位は足の裏の米粒"

— A degree is like a grain of rice on the sole of your foot—if you don't take it, you feel bad, but taking it doesn't mean you can eat (survive).

昔の人は、学位は足の裏の米粒だと言った。

Old/Sarcastic

"看板を掲げる"

— Literally 'to hang a sign', but often used when someone uses their degree/title to start a business or practice.

博士の学位を取って看板を掲げた。

Metaphorical

"箔をつける"

— To add 'gilding' or prestige to oneself, often by getting a degree from a famous school.

箔をつけるために海外で学位を取った。

Informal/Critical

"肩書き"

— Title or status, including degrees, used to describe one's social standing.

彼は学位という立派な肩書きを持っている。

Neutral

"学問に王道なし"

— There is no royal road to learning. Often said to those struggling for a degree.

学位を取るのは大変だが、学問に王道なしだ。

Literary

"井の中の蛙"

— A frog in a well. Used for someone with a degree who thinks they know everything but lacks real-world experience.

学位があっても、井の中の蛙になってはいけない。

Proverbial

"机上の空論"

— Desktop theory. Sometimes used to criticize degree holders whose ideas don't work in practice.

彼の学位論文は机上の空論に過ぎない。

Critical

"象牙の塔"

— Ivory tower. Refers to the world of academia where degrees are earned, far from practical reality.

彼は学位を取ってからずっと象牙の塔にいる。

Metaphorical

"門前の小僧習わぬ経を読む"

— A shop boy near a temple will chant sutras without being taught. Used for someone who learns a field without a formal degree.

学位はないが、門前の小僧で知識は豊富だ。

Proverbial

"実るほど頭を垂れる稲穂かな"

— The more grain the rice stalk has, the lower it bows. Used to encourage humility in those with high degrees.

博士の学位を取っても、実るほど頭を垂れる稲穂かなの精神を忘れないで。

Poetic/Moral

Easily Confused

学位 vs 学期 (Gakki)

Sounds similar and relates to school.

Gakki means 'semester' or 'school term', while Gakui means 'degree'.

今学期は学位論文を書きます。

学位 vs 学力 (Gakuryoku)

Both start with 'Gaku'.

Gakuryoku means 'academic ability' or 'scholarship', while Gakui is the 'degree' itself.

学位があっても、学力が高いとは限らない。

学位 vs 学生 (Gakusei)

Basic word for 'student'.

Gakusei is the person; Gakui is the credential they seek.

学生は学位を目指して勉強する。

学位 vs 学科 (Gakka)

Sounds similar.

Gakka is a 'department' or 'course of study' (e.g., Biology department).

数学科で学位を取りました。

学位 vs 学会 (Gakkai)

Very similar sound.

Gakkai is an 'academic society' or 'conference'.

学会で学位論文の発表をする。

Sentence Patterns

私は[Noun]の学位がほしいです。

私は理学の学位がほしいです。

[Daigaku]で学位を取りました。

東京大学で学位を取りました。

学位を取得するために、[Action]しています。

学位を取得するために、毎日研究しています。

この職種には、[Level]以上の学位が必要です。

この職種には、修士以上の学位が必要です。

学位の有無にかかわらず、[Statement]。

学位の有無にかかわらず、実力があれば評価されます。

学位授与の基準は、[Condition]によって定められる。

学位授与の基準は、大学の学則によって定められる。

[Name]さんに学位が授与されました。

田中さんに博士の学位が授与されました。

彼は[Field]の学位を持っています。

彼は文学の学位を持っています。

Word Family

Nouns

学士 (Gakushi - Bachelor)

修士 (Shūshi - Master)

博士 (Hakushi - Doctor)

学問 (Gakumon - Scholarship)

学位記 (Gakuiki - Diploma)

Verbs

学ぶ (Manabu - To learn)

学習する (Gakushū suru - To study)

取得する (Shutoku suru - To acquire)

Adjectives

学術的な (Gakujutsuteki-na - Academic)

高学歴な (Kōgakureki-na - Highly educated)

大学 (Daigaku - University)

教授 (Kyōju - Professor)

論文 (Ronbun - Thesis)

研究 (Kenkyū - Research)

卒業 (Sotsugyō - Graduation)

How to Use It

frequency

High in academic, professional, and formal social contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 学位 for temperature. → 度 (do)
English uses 'degree' for both, but Japanese splits them. 'Gakui' is only for academic achievement.
Saying 学位を卒業する。 → 学位を取得する / 大学を卒業する
You graduate from a school, but you obtain/acquire a degree.
Confusing 学位 with 学歴。 → Context-dependent.
Gakureki is your school history; Gakui is the specific degree title.
Pronouncing it as 'Gakwi'. → Gakui (Ga-ku-i)
It has three distinct moras. Don't blend the 'u' and 'i' into a single syllable.
Using 学位 for vocational certificates. → 資格 (shikaku) or 修了証 (shūryōshō)
Gakui is reserved for university-level academic degrees.

Tips

Resume Writing

When writing your resume in Japanese, list your degree as '[University Name] [Department] [Degree Level] 取得'. This is the standard professional format.

Prestige Matters

In Japan, the name of the university where you got your 'Gakui' often carries as much weight as the degree itself. This is known as 'Gakureki'.

Particle Usage

Use the particle 'o' with verbs like 'toru' or 'shutoku suru', and 'ga' with 'aru' or 'hoshii'. For example: 'Gakui o toru' vs 'Gakui ga hoshii'.

Self-Introduction

If you have an advanced degree, mentioning it during a formal self-introduction (jikoshokai) can establish your expertise quickly in a Japanese business setting.

Formal Contexts

In graduation speeches, listen for '授与' (juyo - conferment). It is the key action word when 'Gakui' is being discussed by officials.

Related Suffixes

Learn the suffix '-gō' (号). 'Gakushigō', 'Shūshigō', and 'Hakushigō' are common ways to refer to the specific titles of degrees.

Research Focus

If you are in academia, 'Gakui' is almost always linked to your 'Ronbun' (thesis). Be prepared to talk about both together.

Not for Angles

Remember: A 90-degree angle is 'kyūjū-do', not 'kyūjū-gakui'. Keep 'Gakui' only for the university.

Kanji Precision

Practice writing '学位' several times. The second kanji '位' is also used in 'ichi-i' (first place), which helps you remember it means 'rank'.

Respect Titles

If someone has a 'Hakushi' (Doctoral) degree, it is respectful to acknowledge their expertise, though you still call them 'Sensei' or '[Name]-san'.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Gakui' as 'Gaku' (Gakkō/School) + 'i' (Rank/Position). It is your 'School Rank'.

Visual Association

Imagine a student climbing a ladder made of books. Each big step (Bachelor, Master, PhD) is a 'Gakui'.

Word Web

University Diploma Bachelor Master PhD Thesis Graduation Resume

Challenge

Try to write a sentence about what 'Gakui' you want to get and in what subject. Use the pattern: [Subject] no [Gakui] o toritai desu.

Word Origin

The term '学位' (Gakui) was standardized in Japan during the Meiji period as the country modernized its educational system based on Western models. It was chosen to translate the concept of academic 'degrees' from European languages.

Original meaning: The rank (位) achieved through learning (学).

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking people about their 'Gakui' or 'Gakureki' as it can be a sensitive topic related to social status or perceived failure.

In English, 'degree' has many meanings (temperature, angles), but in Japanese, 'Gakui' is only for school.

The 'Hakase' (Doctor) title is often used for characters in anime like 'Professor Agasa' from Detective Conan. The movie 'The Great Passage' (Fune o Amu) features characters with high academic degrees working on a dictionary. The phrase 'Gakureki Shakai' is a common theme in Japanese social dramas.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

University Orientation

学位取得の要件 (Requirements for obtaining a degree)
学位論文の書き方 (How to write a degree thesis)
学位授与式の日程 (Schedule for the degree conferment ceremony)
学位プログラムの概要 (Overview of the degree program)

Job Interview

どのような学位をお持ちですか？ (What kind of degree do you hold?)
学位をどのように仕事に活かせますか？ (How can you apply your degree to the job?)
修士の学位を持っています。 (I have a Master's degree.)
学位取得予定です。 (I am scheduled to obtain my degree.)

Academic Conference

博士の学位をお持ちの先生 (Professors who hold a doctoral degree)
学位論文に基づく発表 (Presentation based on a degree thesis)
学位の専門分野 (Field of specialization of the degree)
学位取得後の研究 (Research after obtaining the degree)

HR/Recruitment

学位不問の採用 (Hiring regardless of degree)
学位の確認 (Verification of degrees)
学位による給与の差 (Salary difference based on degrees)
海外学位の評価 (Evaluation of overseas degrees)

Social Conversation

何の学位を取ったの？ (What degree did you get?)
学位を取るのは大変だった？ (Was it hard to get your degree?)
二つ目の学位を目指している。 (I'm aiming for a second degree.)
学位があってすごいね。 (It's impressive that you have a degree.)

Conversation Starters

"大学では何の学位を取得されましたか？ (What degree did you obtain at university?)"

"将来、修士や博士の学位を取りたいと思いますか？ (Do you want to get a Master's or Doctoral degree in the future?)"

"あなたの国では、学位は就職にどのくらい重要ですか？ (In your country, how important is a degree for finding a job?)"

"学位を取得するために一番大変だったことは何ですか？ (What was the hardest thing about obtaining your degree?)"

"もしもう一つ学位を取れるなら、何を勉強したいですか？ (If you could get another degree, what would you want to study?)"

Journal Prompts

私が学位を取得したい理由、または取得して良かったことについて書く。 (Write about why I want to get a degree, or why I'm glad I got one.)

学位と実務経験、どちらが大切だと思うか自分の意見を述べる。 (State my opinion on which is more important: a degree or practical experience.)

学位論文のテーマとして興味があることについて詳しく書く。 (Write in detail about a topic I am interested in for a degree thesis.)

理想の学位授与式はどのようなものか想像して書く。 (Imagine and write about what an ideal degree conferral ceremony would be like.)

学位を取得した後のキャリアについて、10年後の自分へ手紙を書く。 (Write a letter to myself 10 years from now about my career after obtaining a degree.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, 'Gakui' is strictly for university-level degrees (Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate). High school completion is called 'Sotsugyō' (graduation) or 'Kōtsū' (high school graduation), and the certificate is 'Sotsugyō Shōsho'.

The most common and formal verb is '取得する' (shutoku suru), meaning 'to obtain'. In casual speech, '取る' (toru) is also used frequently. For example, '学位を取る' is very common.

You say '修士の学位を持っています' (Shūshi no gakui o motte imasu). Alternatively, you can say '修士号を持っています' (Shūshigō o motte imasu).

Absolutely not. For temperature, use '度' (do). Saying '30 gakui' would mean '30 academic degrees', which makes no sense in a weather context.

'Meiyo Gakui' means 'honorary degree'. It is awarded by universities to individuals who have made significant contributions to society or a specific field, without them necessarily completing a course of study.

Both refer to a Doctoral degree. 'Hakase' is the more common, everyday reading, while 'Hakushi' is the formal reading used in official academic contexts and titles.

No, that is incorrect. You graduate from a school ('Daigaku o sotsugyō suru'), but you obtain a degree ('Gakui o shutoku suru').

It means 'degree not required'. It implies the employer is more interested in your skills or experience than your formal academic background.

It is a 'degree thesis' or 'dissertation'. It is the major piece of research or writing required to earn a Master's or Doctoral degree.

Not necessarily. 'Sensei' is used for teachers, doctors, and lawyers. However, most university 'Sensei' (professors) hold a Doctoral degree ('Hakushi gakui').