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B2 verb #7,500 most common 9 min read

踏襲

toushuu Top 7,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 踏襲 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 踏襲 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word 踏襲 (toushuu) yet. It is a very formal and difficult word. Instead, you can use simple words like '同じ (onaji - the same)' or 'する (suru - to do).' If you want to say you are following someone, you might say '同じことをします' (I will do the same thing). 踏襲 is like saying 'I am stepping into the footprints of the person before me.' Even though you won't use it, it's good to know that Japanese has special words for doing things the traditional way. Imagine you are playing a game and you copy exactly what the leader does—that is the basic idea of 踏襲, but used for very important adult things like laws and company rules.

At the A2 level, you are starting to learn more 'suru-verbs.' 踏襲 (toushuu) is a suru-verb used in news and formal writing. You might see it in a simple sentence like '前の方針を踏襲します' (We will follow the previous policy). While you should still stick to easier words like '真似する (mane suru - to copy)' or '習う (narau - to learn/follow)' in your own speaking, you might start to see 踏襲 in simple news articles or announcements at work. Think of it as a very polite way to say 'we are not changing the plan.' It helps you understand that in Japan, keeping things the same as they were before is often considered very important and respectful.

At the B1 level, you should be able to recognize 踏襲 (toushuu) and understand its context. You will hear it often on the news when politicians or business leaders talk. It means 'to follow a precedent or policy.' For example, '彼は父のやり方を踏襲した' (He followed his father's way of doing things). At this level, you should notice that 踏襲 is different from '真似する' (to copy) because 踏襲 is about following a formal system or a long-standing tradition. It is a 'professional' word. You might start using it in formal writing or when giving a presentation about a project that is continuing from a previous year. It makes your Japanese sound much more mature and business-ready.

At the B2 level, 踏襲 (toushuu) is a key vocabulary word. You are expected to use it correctly in formal situations, such as business meetings or academic essays. You should understand that 踏襲 implies a deliberate choice to maintain continuity. For instance, '新体制でも従来の販売戦略を踏襲することになった' (It was decided that the conventional sales strategy would be followed even under the new system). You should also be able to distinguish it from similar words like 継承 (inheritance) and 継続 (continuation). At this level, you understand the cultural nuance: 踏襲 often signals stability and respect for predecessors, which is a vital part of Japanese corporate and political culture. You can use it to explain why a certain method was chosen over a new one.

At the C1 level, you should have a nuanced command of 踏襲 (toushuu). You can use it to discuss complex topics like legal precedents (判例の踏襲), cultural preservation, or organizational behavior. You understand that 踏襲 can sometimes have a negative nuance in modern discourse, implying a lack of innovation or 'blindly following' the past. You can use it in sentences like '前例踏襲の弊害' (the harmful effects of blindly following precedent). You are also comfortable with its various grammatical forms, including using it as a modifier or in the passive voice. Your ability to use 踏襲 correctly in a debate or a high-level business negotiation shows that you understand not just the Japanese language, but the underlying values of Japanese institutional logic.

At the C2 level, you use 踏襲 (toushuu) with the precision of a native speaker. You are aware of its historical roots and how it fits into the broader landscape of 'continuity vs. change' in Japanese philosophy. You can analyze texts where 踏襲 is used to subtly signal political alignment or institutional loyalty. You might use it in a phrase like '独自の解釈を加えつつ、基本的には古典の様式を踏襲している' (While adding a unique interpretation, it basically follows the classical style). You understand the word's weight in legal and constitutional matters, where '踏襲' provides the necessary predictability for a functioning society. At this level, the word is not just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for navigating the highest levels of Japanese professional and intellectual life.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

踏襲 in 30 Seconds

踏襲 (toushuu) is a formal Japanese verb meaning to follow a precedent, policy, or tradition exactly as it was set by predecessors.
It is primarily used in professional contexts like business, politics, and the arts to emphasize continuity and respect for established methods.
Grammatically, it is a suru-verb (踏襲する) that takes a direct object (を), typically abstract concepts like 'precedent' (前例) or 'policy' (方針).
While it ensures stability, it can sometimes imply a lack of innovation or a rigid adherence to the past in modern discussions.

The Japanese verb 踏襲 (とうしゅう - toushuu) is a formal and sophisticated term that literally translates to 'stepping on and following.' In a metaphorical sense, it means to follow a precedent, a policy, or a tradition exactly as it was established by those who came before. It is most frequently encountered in professional, political, and academic contexts where continuity is valued over radical change. Unlike simpler words for 'following' or 'copying,' 踏襲 implies a deliberate decision to maintain the status quo or to respect the established framework of an organization or system. It is the linguistic equivalent of 'following in someone's footsteps' but specifically applied to abstract concepts like strategies, methods, and ideologies.

Etymological Nuance: The first kanji, 踏 (tou/fumu), means to step on or tread. The second kanji, 襲 (shuu/osou), while often meaning 'attack,' in this specific compound refers to 'inheriting' or 'repeating.' Together, they create the image of someone placing their feet exactly where their predecessor stood, ensuring no deviation from the path.

新社長は前任者の経営方針を踏襲することを明言した。(The new president clearly stated that they would follow the management policy of their predecessor.)

In the world of Japanese politics, you will hear this word constantly. When a new administration takes over, the media will ask whether they intend to 踏襲 the previous cabinet's diplomatic or economic policies. If they do, it suggests stability and a lack of friction. However, in a business context, 踏襲 can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation of being unoriginal or failing to innovate. If a company simply 踏襲s old methods while the market changes, they may be seen as stagnant. Therefore, the word carries a weight of responsibility—it is about the preservation of legacy, for better or for worse.

Common Collocations: You will almost always see it paired with words like 前例 (zenrei - precedent), 方針 (houshin - policy), 伝統 (dentou - tradition), or やり方 (yarikata - way of doing things).

我々は従来のやり方を踏襲するだけでなく、新しい視点も取り入れるべきだ。(We should not only follow the traditional methods but also incorporate new perspectives.)

Understanding 踏襲 is essential for reaching the B2 level of Japanese proficiency because it marks the transition from basic descriptive language to formal administrative language. While a beginner might say '同じことをする' (do the same thing), a proficient speaker uses 踏襲 to convey the specific intent of maintaining a lineage or systematic approach. It is a word that commands respect and indicates a high level of literacy in Japanese society, particularly in corporate and governmental environments where the 'honoring of the past' is a core cultural value.

Grammatically, 踏襲 functions as a 'suru-verb' (noun + する). Because it is a formal word, it is rarely used in casual conversation with friends. Instead, you will find it in news reports, business emails, formal speeches, and academic papers. The direct object of 踏襲 (the thing being followed) is marked with the particle を (o). Common objects include policies, precedents, styles, and traditions. It is rarely used for physical objects; you don't 'toushuu' a physical path, but rather the abstract 'path' of an idea or rule.

Sentence Structure: [Subject] + は + [Precedent/Policy] + を + 踏襲する。
Example: 政府は前政権の外交ルートを踏襲した。(The government followed the diplomatic routes of the previous administration.)

このデザインは、初期モデルのコンセプトを踏襲しています。(This design follows the concept of the initial model.)

One interesting aspect of 踏襲 is its use in the passive voice or as a modifier. For example, '踏襲された方針' (the followed policy) or '前例が踏襲される' (the precedent is followed). In these cases, it emphasizes that the action was performed out of a sense of duty or systemic requirement. When you want to express that something is being done 'in accordance with' or 'by following' something else, 踏襲 is your go-to verb for maintaining a high register of speech. It suggests that the actor is not acting on a whim but is part of a larger, continuing story.

伝統を踏襲しつつも、時代に合わせた変化が必要だ。(While following tradition, changes suited to the times are also necessary.)

Formal Negation: To say someone is NOT following a precedent, you might say '踏襲しない' or more formally '踏襲を避ける' (avoid following) or '踏襲を断念する' (abandon following).

In academic writing, 踏襲 is used to describe how a new study builds upon the methodology of a previous one. For example, '本研究は、先行研究の手法を基本的に踏襲している' (This study basically follows the methods of previous research). This tells the reader that the fundamental approach is the same, allowing for a direct comparison of results. By mastering this verb, you can describe complex organizational behaviors and intellectual legacies with the precision expected of a high-level Japanese speaker.

The most common place to hear 踏襲 is during NHK news broadcasts, particularly during segments covering political transitions. When a new Prime Minister is elected, political analysts will spend hours debating which of the previous administration's policies will be '踏襲' (followed) and which will be '刷新' (sasshin - renovated/renewed). It is a keyword in the vocabulary of Japanese governance. If you are watching a press conference, you might hear a spokesperson say, '前例を踏襲して、適切に対応してまいります' (We will respond appropriately, following precedent). This is a standard way of saying 'We are going to do what we've always done.'

Business Contexts: In corporate meetings, especially in established 'traditional' Japanese companies, 踏襲 is used to justify decisions. 'It has always been done this way' is often expressed as '従来の方針を踏襲する' (Following the conventional policy).

このプロジェクトは昨年の成功例を踏襲して進めましょう。(Let's proceed with this project by following last year's successful example.)

You will also encounter this word in the arts. For instance, in Kabuki, Noh, or traditional tea ceremonies, the practitioners must 踏襲 the forms (型 - kata) passed down through generations. In this context, 踏襲 is a word of high praise, signifying that the artist has successfully preserved the soul of the tradition without introducing ego or unnecessary innovation. Similarly, in the world of design, a sequel to a popular video game or a new model of a luxury car might be described as '踏襲ing' the DNA of its predecessors, ensuring that fans of the brand feel a sense of continuity and familiarity.

彼は師匠の教えを忠実に踏襲している。(He is faithfully following his master's teachings.)

Finally, you may see this word in legal documents or official government white papers. It is used to explain the rationale behind a ruling or a new regulation. If a court decides a case based on previous rulings, the term '判例を踏襲する' (follow judicial precedent) is used. In this sense, 踏襲 is not just a choice; it is a mechanism of the Japanese legal and social system that ensures predictability and order. By recognizing this word in these varied settings, you gain a deeper understanding of how Japanese society balances its deep respect for history with the demands of the present day.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with 踏襲 is using it in a context that is too casual. For example, if you tell a friend, 'I followed your recipe exactly,' using 'レシピを踏襲した' would sound incredibly stiff and strange. In everyday life, people use '同じように作った' (made it the same way) or '通りにやった' (did it according to). 踏襲 is reserved for larger-scale concepts like policies, traditions, or methodologies. Using it for small, personal tasks makes you sound like a robot or a bureaucrat. It is a 'big word' for 'big things.'

Confusion with 継承 (Keishou): Learners often confuse 踏襲 with 継承 (keishou - inheritance/succession). While they are similar, 継承 focuses on the act of passing something down (like a title, property, or a whole culture), whereas 踏襲 focuses on the act of following the specific *way* something was done. You 継承 a throne, but you 踏襲 the previous king's policies.

❌ 昨日の晩ごはんの作り方を踏襲した。
✅ 昨日の晩ごはんと同じように作った。(I made dinner the same way as yesterday.)

Another common error is a pronunciation mistake. The kanji 踏 is usually read as 'fumu' in its verb form, leading some learners to accidentally say 'fumishuu' or 'toushou.' The correct reading is 'toushuu.' Additionally, because the second kanji 襲 (shuu) is also used in 襲う (osou - to attack), some learners mistakenly think the word has a aggressive or negative connotation. In reality, in the context of 踏襲, it is entirely neutral or even positive in its emphasis on continuity and respect for the past.

❌ 彼のスピーチをそのまま踏襲した。
✅ 彼のスピーチの構成を踏襲した。(I followed the structure of his speech.)

Finally, remember that 踏襲 implies a lack of significant change. If you are 'following' someone's advice but changing half of it, 踏襲 is not the right word. You would use '参考にする' (sankou ni suru - use as reference). Using 踏襲 suggests a faithful adherence to the original model. If a politician says they will 踏襲 a policy but then changes it immediately, they will be accused of '公約違反' (breach of promise) because the word 踏襲 carries a strong promise of consistency.

Japanese has many words that mean 'to follow' or 'to continue,' and choosing the right one depends entirely on the context and the register. 踏襲 is at the top of the formality scale. For everyday situations, you would use 習う (narau) or 真似する (mane suru). If you are following a set of instructions or a path, you might use 沿う (sou). Understanding the differences between these synonyms will help you express yourself more naturally and avoid the 'robotic' formal tone when it is not appropriate.

踏襲 vs. 継承 (Keishou): 踏襲: Focuses on following a method or policy (The 'How').
継承: Focuses on receiving and passing on a legacy or asset (The 'What').
踏襲 vs. 倣う (Narau): 踏襲: Very formal, often used in politics/business. Implies official continuity.
倣う: 'To follow the example of.' Slightly less formal. Can be used for following a person's behavior or a simple style.

前例に倣って、資料を作成してください。(Please create the documents following the example of the precedent.)

Another alternative is 継続する (keizoku suru), which simply means 'to continue.' While 踏襲 implies doing things the same *way*, 継続 simply means not stopping. You can 継続 a project while completely changing the strategy, but you cannot 踏襲 a strategy if you change it. Then there is 順守する (junshu suru), which means 'to abide by' or 'to comply with,' usually used for laws and regulations. While 踏襲 is a choice to follow a style, 順守 is an obligation to follow a rule.

伝統的な技法を継承する職人が減っている。(The number of craftsmen inheriting traditional techniques is decreasing.)

Finally, consider トレースする (toreesu suru), a loanword from 'trace.' This is used in technical or creative fields to mean literally following lines or copying a design exactly. It lacks the 'honor' and 'policy' nuances of 踏襲. By understanding these subtle shifts in meaning, you can choose the word that perfectly matches your intention, whether you are discussing a government's five-year plan or just following a friend's advice on where to eat lunch.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 襲 is the same one used for 'attack' (osou), but in this word, it uses its archaic meaning of 'to inherit' or 'to fold/layer,' representing the layering of a new person's actions over an old person's path.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /təʊ.ʃuː/

US /toʊ.ʃu/

In Japanese, the pitch accent is usually 'Heiban' (flat), meaning the pitch stays relatively level throughout the word.

Rhymes With

報酬 (houshuu - reward) 改修 (kaishuu - repair) 吸収 (kyuushuu - absorption) 徴収 (choushuu - collection) 編集 (henshuu - editing) 練習 (renshuu - practice) 復習 (fukushuu - review) 来週 (raishuu - next week)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'tou' as 'to' (short vowel).
Pronouncing 'shuu' as 'shu' (short vowel).
Confusing the reading with 'toushou' (common mistake even for natives).
Reading '踏' as 'fumi' in the compound (e.g., 'fumishuu').
Using an English 'r' sound instead of the Japanese 't' and 'sh' sounds.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

The kanji 襲 is complex to write and recognize for intermediate learners.

Writing 5/5

Writing 襲 from memory requires advanced kanji knowledge (22 strokes).

Speaking 3/5

The pronunciation is simple, but knowing when to use it requires cultural awareness.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and formal settings, so learners will hear it frequently.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

前例 (zenrei) 方針 (houshin) 伝統 (dentou) 継承 (keishou) 習う (narau)

Learn Next

刷新 (sasshin) 革新 (kakushin) 遵守 (junshu) 準拠 (junkyo) 慣行 (kankou)

Advanced

換骨奪胎 (kankotsu-dattai) 墨守 (bokushu) 旧態依然 (kyuutai-izen) 付和雷同 (fuwa-raidou) 不易流行 (fueki-ryuukou)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs (Noun + する)

踏襲する、勉強する、散歩する

Noun modification with the past tense (~た)

踏襲した方針 (The policy that was followed)

Using 'tsutsu' for simultaneous actions in formal speech

伝統を踏襲しつつ、革新を目指す。

Passive voice for institutional actions

前例が踏襲される。

The particle 'o' for direct objects

やり方を踏襲する。

Examples by Level

前のやり方を踏襲します。

I will follow the previous way.

Simple 'suru-verb' usage.

彼は先生の教えを踏襲した。

He followed the teacher's teachings.

Direct object marked with 'o'.

このデザインは前のモデルを踏襲している。

This design follows the previous model.

Continuous form 'shite-iru'.

みんなで前例を踏襲しましょう。

Let's all follow the precedent.

Volitional form 'shimashou'.

古い伝統を踏襲することは大切だ。

It is important to follow old traditions.

Nominalized verb 'suru koto'.

彼女は母のスタイルを踏襲した。

She followed her mother's style.

Past tense 'shita'.

このルールは去年のものを踏襲している。

This rule follows the one from last year.

Using 'mono' to refer to the rule.

新しいリーダーも方針を踏襲する。

The new leader will also follow the policy.

Future/Habitual 'suru'.

新政権は、前政権の経済政策を踏襲すると発表した。

The new administration announced it would follow the economic policies of the previous one.

Quotative 'to happyou shita'.

わが社は創業以来の精神を踏襲しています。

Our company has been following its founding spirit since its inception.

Formal 'shite-imasu'.

この映画は、前作のストーリーをそのまま踏襲している。

This movie follows the story of the previous work exactly.

Adverb 'sonomama' emphasizes exactness.

慣習を踏襲するだけでなく、新しいことにも挑戦したい。

I want to not only follow customs but also try new things.

'Dakedenaku' (not only...).

今回のイベントも、例年の流れを踏襲して行われます。

This event will also be held following the usual flow of every year.

Passive potential 'okonawaremasu'.

彼は先輩の仕事の進め方を踏襲しているようだ。

It seems he is following his senior's way of proceeding with work.

Conjectural 'you da'.

その作家は、古典文学の形式を踏襲して小説を書いた。

That author wrote the novel by following the forms of classical literature.

Te-form for method 'shite'.

基本方針を踏襲しつつ、細部を修正した。

While following the basic policy, I corrected the details.

'Tsutsu' (while doing...).

過去の成功例を踏襲することが、必ずしも正解とは限らない。

Following past success stories is not necessarily the right answer.

'To wa kagiranai' (not necessarily).

この建築様式は、18世紀の伝統を踏襲したものである。

This architectural style is one that follows 18th-century traditions.

Noun modification 'toushuu shita mono'.

多くの企業が、前例踏襲の姿勢を崩そうとしない。

Many companies are unwilling to change their stance of following precedent.

Compound noun 'zenrei-toushuu'.

彼は師匠の技法を忠実に踏襲し、名声を得た。

He faithfully followed his master's techniques and gained fame.

Adverb 'chuujitsu ni' (faithfully).

新しいマニュアルは、旧版の構成を踏襲して作成された。

The new manual was created following the structure of the old version.

Passive 'sakusei sareta'.

政府はこれまでの外交方針を踏襲する構えだ。

The government is prepared to follow its previous foreign policy.

'Kamae da' (is prepared to/is in a stance to).

伝統を踏襲する一方で、現代的な要素も取り入れている。

While following tradition, it also incorporates modern elements.

'Ippou de' (on the other hand/while).

その判決は、最高裁の過去の判断を踏襲したものだった。

The ruling was one that followed the past decisions of the Supreme Court.

Explanatory 'mono datta'.

組織の硬直化を防ぐためには、前例踏襲からの脱却が必要である。

To prevent organizational rigidity, breaking away from following precedent is necessary.

'Dakkyaku' (breaking away/divesting).

新製品の開発において、旧モデルの欠点まで踏襲してしまった。

In developing the new product, we ended up following even the flaws of the old model.

'Shimatta' (regrettable completion).

この学説は、先行研究の論理構成を基本的に踏襲している。

This theory basically follows the logical structure of previous research.

Adverb 'kihon-teki ni' (basically).

伝統芸能の世界では、型を踏襲することが修行の第一歩とされる。

In the world of traditional performing arts, following the 'kata' is considered the first step of training.

Passive 'to sareru' (is considered to be).

彼は前任者のやり方を踏襲しつつも、独自のカラーを打ち出した。

While following his predecessor's methods, he also brought out his own unique style.

'Uchi-dashita' (brought out/presented).

今回の法改正は、国際的な基準を踏襲する形で行われた。

This legal revision was carried out in a way that follows international standards.

'Katachi de' (in the form of).

過去の慣行を無批判に踏襲することは、リスクを伴う。

Uncritically following past practices involves risk.

'Tomanau' (to accompany/involve).

そのブランドは、創業者の哲学を今もなお踏襲し続けている。

That brand continues to follow the founder's philosophy even now.

Compound verb 'toushuu-shi-tsuzukeru'.

官僚機構においては、前例を踏襲することが自己保身の手段となりがちだ。

In bureaucratic organizations, following precedent tends to become a means of self-preservation.

'Gachi da' (tends to... often with negative nuance).

後継者は、先代の築き上げた基盤を踏襲し、さらなる発展を目指した。

The successor followed the foundation built by the predecessor and aimed for further development.

Compound verb 'kizuki-ageta'.

この詩集は、万葉集の歌風を現代的な感性で踏襲している。

This collection of poems follows the style of the Manyoshu with modern sensitivity.

'Kansei de' (with sensitivity).

既存の枠組みを踏襲するだけでは、この難局は乗り越えられない。

Simply following the existing framework will not allow us to overcome this difficult situation.

'Dake de wa... nai' (not just by...).

彼は、リベラルな政治理念を踏襲する急先鋒として知られている。

He is known as the spearhead who follows liberal political ideologies.

'Kyuusenpou' (spearhead/vanguard).

判例を踏襲しつつも、時代の要請に応じた新たな解釈が示された。

While following precedent, a new interpretation in response to the demands of the times was presented.

'Yousei ni oujita' (responded to demands).

このプロジェクトの成否は、成功した過去のモデルをいかに踏襲できるかにかかっている。

The success or failure of this project depends on how well we can follow successful past models.

'Ni kakatte iru' (depends on).

伝統を墨守するのではなく、その本質を踏襲しながら進化させるべきだ。

Rather than blindly adhering to tradition, we should evolve it while following its essence.

'Bokushu' (blindly adhering) vs 'Toushuu'.

憲法解釈の変更に際して、政府は従来の論理的整合性を踏襲することに腐心した。

In changing the interpretation of the Constitution, the government took great pains to follow the logical consistency of the past.

'Fushin shita' (took great pains/struggled).

前例踏襲主義は、時としてイノベーションを阻害する最大の要因となる。

The principle of following precedent sometimes becomes the greatest factor hindering innovation.

Adding '-shugi' (ideology/principle).

その論考は、デリダの脱構築の理論を換骨奪胎しつつ踏襲している。

That treatise follows Derrida's theory of deconstruction while adapting it creatively.

'Kankotsu-dattai' (adapting old works to create something new).

外交文書の文言は、過去の合意内容を厳密に踏襲しなければならない。

The wording of diplomatic documents must strictly follow the contents of past agreements.

'Nakereba naranai' (must).

彼は、モダニズム建築の巨匠たちの思想を現代的な文脈で踏襲した。

He followed the thoughts of the masters of modernist architecture in a modern context.

'Bunmyaku de' (in context).

歴史の潮流を踏襲しつつ、新たな時代を切り拓くリーダーが求められている。

Leaders who can open up a new era while following the tide of history are in demand.

'Kiri-hiraku' (to carve out/open up).

この判決が確定すれば、今後の同種事案における司法判断の基準として踏襲されることになるだろう。

If this ruling becomes final, it will likely be followed as the standard for judicial decisions in similar cases in the future.

'Koto ni naru darou' (it will likely come to pass that...).

既存の社会契約を安易に踏襲するのではなく、その正当性を常に問い直す必要がある。

Rather than easily following existing social contracts, it is necessary to constantly question their legitimacy.

'Toi-naosu' (to question again/re-examine).

Synonyms

継承継続遵守模倣

Antonyms

刷新打破

Common Collocations

前例を踏襲する

方針を踏襲する

伝統を踏襲する

やり方を踏襲する

スタイルを踏襲する

判例を踏襲する

精神を踏襲する

形式を踏襲する

手法を踏襲する

デザインを踏襲する

Common Phrases

前例踏襲主義

— The principle or tendency of blindly following precedent without considering change.

前例踏襲主義が、この会社の成長を妨げている。

基本方針の踏襲

— Continuing the core strategy or policy of an organization.

基本方針の踏襲が、市場に安心感を与えた。

そのまま踏襲する

— To follow something exactly as it is, without any modifications.

昨年の計画をそのまま踏襲することにした。

忠実に踏襲する

— To follow something with great loyalty or precision.

彼は師の教えを忠実に踏襲している。

基本的に踏襲する

— To follow the main parts of something while allowing for small changes.

プロットは基本的に踏襲されている。

踏襲を避ける

— To intentionally avoid following a previous example or method.

彼は前任者の失敗の踏襲を避けた。

踏襲される見込み

— A situation where it is expected that a policy or tradition will be followed.

現行の制度が踏襲される見込みだ。

踏襲を旨とする

— To make following tradition or precedent one's primary principle.

わが校は、質実剛健の校風を踏襲することを旨としている。

踏襲の是非

— The pros and cons (right or wrong) of following a certain precedent.

前例踏襲の是非について議論が交わされた。

踏襲を余儀なくされる

— To be forced to follow a precedent due to circumstances.

予算の関係で、旧来の手法を踏襲を余儀なくされた。

Often Confused With

踏襲 vs 継承 (keishou)

Keishou is about inheriting the 'thing' or 'status', while Toushuu is about following the 'method' or 'style'.

踏襲 vs 継続 (keizoku)

Keizoku is just continuing an action. Toushuu implies continuing it in the same specific way as a predecessor.

踏襲 vs 遵守 (junshu)

Junshu is about obeying rules/laws. Toushuu is about following precedents/styles (which might be optional).

Idioms & Expressions

"二の舞を演じる"

— To repeat the same failure as someone else (often used as a contrast to 踏襲, which is usually neutral/positive).

前任者の失敗の二の舞を演じてはならない。

Idiomatic

"轍を踏む"

— To follow the wheel ruts (the same path) of a predecessor, often implying repeating a mistake.

同じ轍を踏まないように注意が必要だ。

Idiomatic

"型にはまる"

— To fit into a mold; to be conventional or unoriginal.

型にはまったやり方を踏襲するだけではダメだ。

Neutral

"旧態依然"

— Remaining in the same old state; failing to progress.

旧態依然とした体制を踏襲し続けている。

Formal

"墨守する"

— To adhere strictly to old customs or beliefs (often with a nuance of being stubborn).

伝統を墨守するあまり、変化を拒んでいる。

Formal

"右にならう"

— To follow the person to the right; to do what everyone else is doing.

他社に右にならって、同じ方針を踏襲した。

Neutral

"柳の下にいつも泥鰌はいない"

— There isn't always a loach under the willow tree (meaning: success won't always be repeated just by following the same path).

前例を踏襲しても、今回は成功するとは限らない。

Proverb

"阿吽の呼吸"

— Perfect synchronization (often why traditions can be followed without explicit instruction).

阿吽の呼吸で、師匠の技を踏襲する。

Idiomatic

"看板を塗り替える"

— To change the 'signboard' (the appearance) while the content remains the same (often used when 踏襲 is hidden).

看板を塗り替えただけで、中身は前政権を踏襲している。

Idiomatic

"温故知新"

— Learning from the past to develop new ideas (the positive side of 踏襲).

温故知新の精神で、伝統を踏襲しつつ新しい価値を作る。

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

踏襲 vs 倣う (narau)

Both mean 'to follow an example.'

Narau is slightly less formal and can apply to small examples or people. Toushuu is for large-scale policies or traditions.

前例に倣う (Neutral) vs. 前例を踏襲する (Formal/Official).

踏襲 vs 模倣 (mohou)

Both involve doing something the same way.

Mohou usually means 'copying' or 'imitating' and can be negative (plagiarism). Toushuu is about 'following' a legacy or policy and is usually neutral or positive.

他社の技術を模倣する (Negative) vs. 創業者の精神を踏襲する (Positive).

踏襲 vs 追随 (tsuizui)

Both mean 'to follow.'

Tsuizui means to follow behind someone else who is currently leading (like a competitor). Toushuu means to follow someone who came *before* you (a predecessor).

トップ企業に追随する (Following a leader) vs. 前任者のやり方を踏襲する (Following a predecessor).

踏襲 vs 遵守 (junshu)

Both involve 'following' something.

Junshu is about 'obeying' or 'complying' with a rule that you *must* follow. Toushuu is about 'adopting' or 'continuing' a style or policy.

ルールを遵守する (Obey) vs. スタイルを踏襲する (Adopt).

踏襲 vs 継承 (keishou)

Both relate to things from the past.

Keishou is like inheriting a house; Toushuu is like living in that house in the exact same way the previous owner did.

王位を継承する (Inherit the throne) vs. 王の政策を踏襲する (Follow the king's policies).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] を踏襲する。

前例を踏襲する。

[Noun] を踏襲した [Noun]。

伝統を踏襲した祭り。

[Noun] を踏襲しつつ、[Action]。

方針を踏襲しつつ、改善を図る。

[Noun] は [Noun] を踏襲している。

このデザインは旧型を踏襲している。

[Noun] を踏襲することに [Verb]。

前例を踏襲することに腐心する。

[Noun] が踏襲される見込みだ。

現行の制度が踏襲される見込みだ。

[Noun] を踏襲する構えを見せる。

政府は従来の方針を踏襲する構えを見せている。

[Noun] の安易な踏襲を戒める。

過去の慣行の安易な踏襲を戒める。

Word Family

Nouns

踏襲 (toushuu - following precedent/inheritance of method)

Verbs

踏襲する (toushuu suru - to follow/to tread in footsteps)

踏む (fumu - to step on)

襲う (osou - to attack/to succeed/to follow)

前例 (zenrei - precedent)

慣行 (kankou - practice/custom)

伝統 (dentou - tradition)

継承 (keishou - succession)

後継 (koukei - successor)

How to Use It

frequency

High in news, business, and formal writing; low in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using it for physical paths. → この道をたどる (Follow this path).
踏襲 is for abstract things like policies or styles, not physical roads or trails.
Pronouncing it as 'toushou'. → toushuu (とうしゅう)
This is a very common mistake even among native speakers, but 'toushou' means something else (like frostbite).
Using it in very casual settings. → 真似する (mane suru) or 同じようにやる (onaji you ni yaru).
踏襲 is a very stiff, formal word. Using it with friends sounds unnatural and robotic.
Confusing it with 'copying' (plagiarism). → 模倣 (mohou) or 盗作 (tousaku).
踏襲 implies a legitimate, often respectful following of a legacy. It's not used for stealing ideas.
Writing the kanji 襲 incorrectly. → 襲 (22 strokes).
It's a complex kanji. Many learners forget the 'clothing' (衣) part at the bottom or the 'dragon' (龍) part on top.

Tips

Formal Contexts Only

Save this word for business, politics, and formal writing. Using it in casual talk sounds like you're reading from a textbook.

Remember the 'Foot'

The first kanji 踏 has the 'foot' radical (⻊), which helps you remember the meaning of 'stepping' in someone's footprints.

Continuity vs. Innovation

When you hear 踏襲, think 'stability.' When you hear 刷新 (sasshin), think 'change.' These two are often pitted against each other.

Pair with 'Precedent'

The most common phrase is '前例を踏襲する' (follow precedent). Memorize this as a single unit.

Long Vowels Matter

Make sure to extend the 'u' sounds in 'tou' and 'shuu'. Shortening them can change the meaning or make it unrecognizable.

Suru-Verb Power

Remember it's a suru-verb. You can use it as '踏襲した' (past), '踏襲している' (current/state), or '踏襲せず' (formal negative).

News Keyword

If you see this word in a news headline, it's almost always about a new leader promising not to change the old leader's big policies.

Respect for Masters

In traditional arts, 踏襲 is a sign of a good student. It shows you have mastered the basics before trying to be unique.

Toushuu vs. Keishou

Use 継承 (keishou) for things you *get* (like a title) and 踏襲 (toushuu) for things you *do* (like a method).

Toe in the Shoe

Remember 'Tou-Shuu' as 'Toe in the Shoe'. You're putting your toe in the same shoe as the person before you.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Toe' (踏 - tou) and 'Shoe' (襲 - shuu). You put your 'toe' in the same 'shoe' that the person before you wore to follow their path exactly.

Visual Association

Imagine a snow-covered path where you are carefully placing your boots into the deep footprints left by a guide. That is 'toushuu'.

Word Web

Precedent Politics Tradition Continuity Policy Footprints Inheritance Formal

Challenge

Try to find one 'toushuu' in a Japanese news article today. Look for it in the 'Politics' or 'Economy' section of NHK News Web Easy or a standard news site.

Word Origin

The word comes from Middle Chinese roots. The first character 踏 (tou/fumu) depicts a foot and a phonetic component meaning 'to step.' The second character 襲 (shuu/osou) originally depicted clothes (衣) and a dragon (龍), meaning to layer clothes or to follow/inherit a position.

Original meaning: To place one's feet in the existing footprints of another, literally ensuring the path remains unchanged.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use it for personal habits (like 'I followed my morning routine') as it sounds overly grandiose and might be perceived as a joke.

English speakers might use 'follow in footsteps' or 'maintain the status quo.' However, 踏襲 is more formal and technically precise than these idioms.

Japanese Political Transitions: Common in headlines like '菅内閣、安倍路線の踏襲' (Suga Cabinet to follow Abe's route). Traditional Arts: Used in descriptions of Noh or Kabuki lineages. Legal Precedents: Found in judicial reviews and legal textbook explanations.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Political Press Conference

前政権の方針を踏襲する
外交路線を安定的に踏襲する
従来の枠組みを踏襲する
国民の期待に応え、前例を踏襲する

Corporate Meeting

昨年のプロジェクト手法を踏襲しましょう
ブランドイメージを踏襲したデザイン
成功した営業戦略を踏襲する
マニュアルの手順をそのまま踏襲してください

Academic Writing

先行研究の理論的枠組みを踏襲する
本論では従来の手法を踏襲しつつ検証を行う
古典的な解釈を踏襲している
データの分類基準を踏襲する

Legal Proceedings

最高裁の判例を踏襲する
確定した法理を踏襲する
過去の審議経過を踏襲する
手続きの正当性を踏襲する

Traditional Arts

師匠の型を忠実に踏襲する
古典の様式を踏襲した作品
家元に伝わる技法を踏襲する
伝統的な美意識を踏襲する

Conversation Starters

"新しいプロジェクトでは、去年のやり方を踏襲する予定ですか？ (Do you plan to follow last year's method for the new project?)"

"伝統を守るために、何を踏襲することが一番大切だと思いますか？ (What do you think is most important to follow in order to protect tradition?)"

"前例を踏襲することのメリットとデメリットは何でしょうか？ (What are the pros and cons of following precedent?)"

"このデザイン、以前のモデルのコンセプトをうまく踏襲していますね。 (This design follows the previous model's concept well, doesn't it?)"

"政治の世界で『踏襲』という言葉がよく使われるのはなぜだと思いますか？ (Why do you think the word 'toushuu' is so often used in the world of politics?)"

Journal Prompts

あなたが仕事や勉強で、あえて『踏襲』しているやり方はありますか？その理由を書いてください。 (Is there a method you deliberately 'toushuu' in your work or studies? Write about the reason.)

『前例踏襲』は、変化の激しい現代社会においてプラスになると思いますか、マイナスになると思いますか？ (Do you think 'following precedent' is a plus or a minus in today's rapidly changing society?)

あなたが尊敬する人の生き方や考え方で、踏襲したいと思う部分はどこですか？ (What parts of the lifestyle or thinking of someone you respect would you like to follow?)

伝統を『踏襲』しながらも、新しさを出すにはどうすればいいでしょうか？ (How can one bring out novelty while 'following' tradition?)

最近のニュースで『踏襲』という言葉を聞きましたか？どのような文脈でしたか？ (Have you heard the word 'toushuu' in the news recently? In what context?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not necessarily. While it often implies respect for tradition and stability, it can be used negatively to criticize a lack of creativity or 'blindly following' the past. Phrases like '前例踏襲主義' (the principle of blindly following precedent) are often used in a critical way to describe stagnant organizations.

Technically, you could, but it would sound very strange and overly formal. It's like saying 'I have implemented the culinary protocols of my predecessor' instead of 'I used my mom's recipe.' Stick to 'レシピ通りに作った' (made it according to the recipe) for daily life.

継承 (keishou) is about 'inheriting' a legacy, title, or property. 踏襲 (toushuu) is about 'following' a specific method, policy, or way of doing things. You inherit (継承) a company, but you follow (踏襲) its management style.

It is pronounced 'tou-shuu' with long 'o' and 'u' sounds. Be careful not to say 'toushou' or 'fumishuu,' which are common mistakes. The pitch is usually flat (Heiban).

Yes, it is very appropriate for business emails, especially when discussing plans, policies, or project methods. It makes you sound professional and respectful of established procedures.

Usually, you follow a person's *way of doing things*, *policy*, or *style*, rather than the person themselves. You would say '彼のやり方を踏襲する' (follow his way) rather than just '彼を踏襲する'.

The most common opposites are 刷新 (sasshin - renovation/renewal) or 革新 (kakushin - innovation). These words imply breaking away from the old way to do something new.

Yes, it is the standard term for following a judicial precedent (判例を踏襲する). It is essential for maintaining consistency in the legal system.

While 襲 (osou) means 'to attack' in modern Japanese, its original meaning in this compound is 'to layer' or 'to succeed/follow.' Think of layering your actions over the past ones.

Yes, it is typically considered a N1 or high N2 level word. It frequently appears in the reading and listening sections of the test, especially in formal passages.