政治的な
政治的な in 30 Seconds
- Political; relating to government and public affairs.
- Describes things connected to power, policy, and governance.
- Use 'na' when modifying a noun (e.g., 政治的な問題).
- Common in news, academia, and discussions of society.
- Meaning
- The Japanese adjective 政治的な (seijiteki na) translates to "political" in English. It is used to describe things, situations, or individuals that are related to or concerned with politics, government, or public affairs. This word is versatile and can be applied in various contexts, from discussing government policies and international relations to the internal dynamics of organizations or even personal opinions that touch upon public issues. When something is described as 政治的な, it implies that it involves power, decision-making processes that affect a community, or ideologies that shape society. It's important to note that the term can carry both neutral and sometimes negative connotations, depending on how it's used and the specific context. For instance, a 政治的な決定 (seijiteki na kettei) might refer to a decision made for political reasons, which could be perceived as strategic or even manipulative. Similarly, 政治的な発言 (seijiteki na hatsugen) refers to statements that are politically charged or intended to influence public opinion. Understanding the nuances of 政治的な is key to grasping discussions about governance, social issues, and power structures in Japan. It's a fundamental term for anyone seeking to engage with Japanese media, news, or even everyday conversations about society. The adjective form, with its na ending, allows it to modify nouns directly, making it a common and useful part of Japanese vocabulary. It can describe abstract concepts like 政治的な理論 (seijiteki na riron - political theory) or concrete entities like 政治的な組織 (seijiteki na soshiki - political organization). The term's prevalence in news reports, academic discussions, and even casual conversations about current events highlights its significance in understanding the broader societal landscape. Whether you're analyzing a government policy, a social movement, or a debate within a company, recognizing the application of 政治的な will significantly enhance your comprehension. It's a word that bridges the gap between personal experience and the larger systems that govern our lives, making it an indispensable tool for navigating complex social and governmental topics. The term can also be used to describe a person's inclination or tendency, such as someone who is naturally interested in or involved in politics. This adjective serves as a crucial descriptor in understanding the dynamics of power and governance in any society. Its adaptability across different scales, from international diplomacy to local community issues, underscores its importance in the Japanese lexicon. It is often encountered when discussing elections, legislation, international treaties, or any matter where government action or public opinion plays a significant role. The term 政治的な is a cornerstone for understanding discussions about power, policy, and societal structures.
The news reported on the 政治的な situation in the neighboring country.
We need to consider the 政治的な implications of this decision.
- Usage
- This adjective is frequently used in formal and semi-formal contexts, such as news reporting, academic papers, political discussions, and official statements. It's also common in everyday conversations when discussing current events or societal issues. When referring to something that is not directly related to government but still involves power dynamics or strategic maneuvering within a group, 政治的な can also be used, though sometimes with a slightly metaphorical sense.
- Examples
- - 政治的な課題 (seijiteki na kadai) - Political issues
- 政治的な駆け引き (seijiteki na kakehiki) - Political maneuvering
- 政治的な立場 (seijiteki na tachiba) - Political stance
- 政治的な発言 (seijiteki na hatsugen) - Political statement
- 政治的な影響 (seijiteki na eikyou) - Political influence
- Direct Modification
- The most straightforward way to use 政治的な is to place it directly before the noun it modifies. Remember to include the 'na' particle. This structure is common for describing specific aspects related to politics. For example, you can talk about 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai - political problems), 政治的な人物 (seijiteki na jinbutsu - political figure), or 政治的な行動 (seijiteki na koudou - political action). This allows for precise descriptions of concepts that are inherently political. The flexibility of this structure means you can adapt it to a wide range of nouns, making it a powerful tool for nuanced expression. Consider the phrase 政治的な理由 (seijiteki na riyuu - political reasons); this implies that a decision or action was taken not for practical or personal reasons, but because of its political implications or advantages. Similarly, 政治的な目的 (seijiteki na mokuteki - political purpose) highlights that the underlying motive is related to gaining or maintaining political power or influence. The adjective's ability to convey this specific type of motivation is crucial in understanding political discourse. Furthermore, when discussing international affairs, you might encounter terms like 政治的な関係 (seijiteki na kankei - political relations) or 政治的な対立 (seijiteki na tairitsu - political conflict), demonstrating its application in global contexts. The adjective's role is to add a layer of interpretation, signaling that the subject matter is intertwined with the realm of governance and power dynamics. It's a descriptive term that helps listeners and readers categorize and understand the nature of the topic being discussed. This direct modification is the most frequent and fundamental usage of 政治的な.
That was a 政治的な decision, not a purely economic one.
- Describing Situations and Environments
- Beyond modifying specific nouns, 政治的な can also be used to describe the general atmosphere or nature of a situation, an organization, or even a field of study. In such cases, it often appears in predicate form or as part of a longer descriptive phrase. For instance, saying that a company's internal discussions have become 政治的 (seijiteki) implies that power struggles and strategic alliances are influencing decision-making, rather than purely objective considerations. This usage extends the adjective's applicability to abstract concepts and general conditions. When a meeting feels tense and full of unspoken agendas, one might comment that the atmosphere is 政治的. This conveys a sense of strategic maneuvering and potential conflict over influence or resources. It's a way to articulate that the dynamics at play are not simply about the task at hand, but about power and position. In academic circles, a debate might be described as 政治的 if it becomes less about the merit of ideas and more about the affiliations and reputations of the researchers involved. This highlights how the term can be used to critique or analyze the underlying dynamics of any group or situation where power plays a role. It allows for a more critical perspective, moving beyond surface-level interactions to understand the deeper forces at work. The adjective 政治的な, in this context, serves as a lens through which to view and interpret complex social interactions. It's not just about government; it's about the exercise of power and influence in any context. This broadens the scope of its usage considerably, enabling more sophisticated analysis of human behavior and group dynamics. It can also be used to describe the nature of a particular time period, such as a 政治的な時代 (seijiteki na jidai - a political era), implying that politics heavily shaped the events and decisions of that time.
The office environment has become quite 政治的 lately.
- Idiomatic and Figurative Use
- In some instances, 政治的な can be used figuratively to describe actions or statements that are strategically calculated for personal or group advantage, even if they are not directly related to formal politics. This figurative usage often carries a slightly negative connotation, implying manipulation or opportunism. For example, someone might make a seemingly innocent comment that is actually 政治的な, meaning it's designed to curry favor or undermine a rival. This figurative extension of the word's meaning allows for more nuanced social commentary. It's a way to point out that even in non-political settings, the principles of power, strategy, and influence can be at play. When someone's actions are described as 政治的, it suggests they are prioritizing their standing or agenda within a group over straightforwardness or genuine cooperation. This figurative use is common in informal discussions and can be a subtle way to criticize someone's behavior. It's important to discern whether the usage is literal or figurative based on the context. For instance, a comment made during a family gathering might be described as 政治的 if it's perceived as an attempt to influence family decisions or gain approval from certain members. This highlights the pervasive nature of power dynamics in human interactions. The term's ability to adapt to these figurative contexts makes it a rich and expressive word in the Japanese language. It allows speakers to comment on the underlying motivations and strategies behind people's actions, even in seemingly mundane situations. This figurative application is a testament to the word's versatility and its deep connection to human social behavior. It's a reminder that the principles of politics, in a broader sense, can manifest in various aspects of life.
His apology felt more 政治的 than sincere.
- News and Current Events
- The term 政治的な (seijiteki na) is exceptionally common in Japanese news reporting. You will hear it frequently when discussions revolve around government policies, elections, international relations, parliamentary debates, and any events that shape the country's political landscape. News anchors, reporters, and commentators use this adjective to categorize and explain the nature of events and decisions. For example, a news segment might discuss 政治的な駆け引き (seijiteki na kakehiki - political maneuvering) between different parties, or analyze the 政治的な影響 (seijiteki na eikyou - political influence) of a particular policy on society. When foreign leaders visit Japan, the news will often describe the diplomatic meetings as having 政治的な意味合い (seijiteki na imiai - political significance). The adjective helps to frame the context, indicating that the subject matter involves governance, power, and public affairs. It's a staple in headlines, news analyses, and interviews with politicians and experts. You might also hear it when discussing protests or social movements that have political demands or implications. The term is indispensable for understanding the factual reporting and analytical commentary surrounding any political development in Japan or abroad. Even when discussing economic news, if political factors are deemed to be a primary driver, the term 政治的な will likely be used. For instance, a trade negotiation might be described as having a strong 政治的な側面 (seijiteki na sokumen - political aspect). This demonstrates its pervasive use in keeping the public informed about the forces shaping their lives through governmental and public action. It's the go-to adjective for labeling anything that falls under the umbrella of politics and governance.
The news discussed the 政治的な implications of the recent election results.
- Academic and Scholarly Discussions
- In academic settings, particularly in fields like political science, sociology, history, and international relations, 政治的な is a fundamental term. University lectures, seminars, research papers, and textbooks frequently employ this adjective to analyze systems of government, political ideologies, historical movements, and societal structures. Students and scholars use 政治的な to differentiate between purely social or economic phenomena and those that are driven by or influence political power. For example, a historian might analyze the 政治的な背景 (seijiteki na haikei - political background) of a revolution, or a sociologist might examine the 政治的な側面 (seijiteki na sokumen - political aspects) of social inequality. The term is crucial for academic rigor, allowing for precise categorization and analysis of complex subjects. Discussions about political theory, comparative politics, and public administration are replete with this adjective. It's used to describe theoretical frameworks, empirical studies, and policy analyses. When discussing the evolution of governance or the impact of political decisions on society, 政治的な serves as an essential descriptor. It enables scholars to dissect the intricate relationships between power, policy, and the populace, providing a structured approach to understanding the mechanisms of society. The term is also used in describing the nature of historical events, such as a 政治的な転換点 (seijiteki na tenkanten - a political turning point), indicating a moment where political dynamics significantly altered the course of history. This academic usage underscores the word's importance in critical thinking and analysis.
The lecture focused on the 政治的な theories of Machiavelli.
- Business and Organizational Contexts
- While not as frequent as in news or academia, 政治的な can also appear in discussions within businesses and organizations, especially in larger corporations or non-profits. Here, it often refers to internal power dynamics, strategic maneuvering, and decision-making processes that are influenced by personal agendas or alliances rather than purely objective merit. For instance, an employee might complain about the 政治的な社内状況 (seijiteki na shanai joukyou - political internal company situation), implying that promotions or project approvals are influenced by who you know or what faction you belong to. It can also describe decisions made for reasons of public relations or to appease stakeholders, which are essentially 政治的な considerations for the organization's image or stability. When companies engage in lobbying or public affairs, these activities are inherently 政治的な. The term helps to describe the complex interplay of power, influence, and strategy within any group, even if it's not a formal government. This usage often carries a slightly negative or critical tone, suggesting that objectivity or fairness is being compromised by political considerations. It's a way to acknowledge that human organizations, like societies, often involve dynamics of power and influence that go beyond simple task completion. For example, a discussion about resource allocation might reveal that the process has become highly 政治的, with different departments vying for dominance. This adjective provides a label for these often unspoken but influential dynamics.
The company's recent merger involved significant 政治的な negotiations.
- Confusing with 政治 (Seiji - Politics)
- A common mistake for learners is to confuse the adjective 政治的な (seijiteki na) with the noun 政治 (seiji), which means "politics" or "government." While related, they serve different grammatical functions. 政治 is a noun and refers to the concept or activity of politics itself. 政治的な is an adjective, meaning "political," and it describes things that are related to or concerned with politics. For example, you would say 政治は難しい (Seiji wa muzukashii - Politics is difficult) using the noun. But you would say 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai - political problem) using the adjective. Using 政治 in place of 政治的な would be grammatically incorrect when you intend to describe something as political. For instance, saying 政治問題 (seiji mondai) is acceptable as a compound noun meaning "political problem," but saying 政治的な問題 is also correct and perhaps more common when emphasizing the adjective nature. The key is to recognize when you need to describe something *as* political (using the adjective) versus when you are referring to the subject of politics itself (using the noun). Learners might incorrectly say 政治問題 instead of 政治的な問題 when they mean to modify the noun 'problem' with the adjective 'political'. It is crucial to remember that 政治的な acts as a descriptor, modifying other nouns, while 政治 is the subject or topic itself.
Incorrect: 彼は政治な発言をした。(Kare wa seiji na hatsugen o shita.)
Correct: 彼は政治的な発言をした。(Kare wa seijiteki na hatsugen o shita.)
- Omitting the 'na' Particle
- Another frequent error is omitting the 'na' particle when 政治的な directly modifies a noun. As a 'na'-adjective, it requires the 'na' to connect it properly to the noun it describes. For example, saying 政治問題 (seiji mondai) is a valid compound noun, but if you want to emphasize that the problem is *political* in nature, you must use 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai). Failing to include 'na' results in an ungrammatical or awkward phrasing. Learners might sometimes see or hear phrases where 政治 directly precedes a noun (like 政治活動 - seiji katsudou, political activity) and incorrectly assume that 政治的な can also be used without 'na' before all nouns. However, 政治的な specifically requires 'na' when functioning as a typical 'na'-adjective modifying a noun. This is a fundamental rule for 'na'-adjectives and is crucial for correct sentence construction. Always remember to insert 'na' between 政治的 and the noun it modifies, unless 政治的 is used in its adverbial form (which is less common and usually marked by 'ni'). The presence or absence of 'na' is a critical indicator of grammatical correctness for this adjective.
Incorrect: これは政治な決定でした。(Kore wa seiji na kettei deshita.)
Correct: これは政治的な決定でした。(Kore wa seijiteki na kettei deshita.)
- Overuse or Misapplication
- Another pitfall is the overuse or misapplication of 政治的な, particularly when trying to sound more formal or analytical. Not every situation that involves a decision or a discussion is necessarily political. Applying 政治的な to something that is purely technical, personal, or purely economic without any political undertones can sound unnatural or even incorrect. For example, if you're discussing the best way to bake a cake, calling it a 政治的な課題 (seijiteki na kadai) would be a humorous exaggeration, but also incorrect in a serious context. Learners might sometimes use 政治的な when a simpler adjective like 重要な (juuyou na - important) or 複雑な (fukuzatsu na - complex) would be more appropriate. It's important to distinguish between actions or issues that are genuinely related to governance, power, or public affairs, and those that are not. The figurative use of 政治的な, to describe internal power struggles in non-political settings, should also be used judiciously. Overusing it can make your language sound overly critical or cynical. Always consider if the term accurately reflects the nature of the subject matter. If a decision is made based on personal preference or simple error, it's not political. If it's about gaining influence, affecting public policy, or managing public perception, then 政治的な is appropriate. The key is to match the descriptor to the actual context and implications.
Incorrect: This recipe is very political!(This is a misapplication of the concept.)
Correct (if the context truly implies political undertones): The debate over funding for this project has become highly political.
- 政治 (Seiji) - Politics, Government
- Comparison: 政治 is the noun form, referring to the entire concept of politics, government, or public affairs. 政治的な is the adjective derived from this noun. You use 政治 when talking about politics as a subject, e.g., 政治は重要です (Seiji wa juuyou desu - Politics is important). You use 政治的な when describing something *as* political, e.g., 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai - political problem).
When to Use: Use 政治 when the focus is on the field or activity of politics itself. Use 政治的な when you need to qualify a noun with the characteristic of being political.
Example:
政治は複雑だ。(Seiji wa fukuzatsu da.) - Politics is complex.
その議論は政治的だった。(Sono giron wa seijiteki datta.) - That discussion was political.
- 公的な (Kouteki na) - Public, Official
- Comparison: 公的な relates to things that are open to the public, government-related, or official in nature. While there's overlap with 政治的な, 公的な is broader and can include things that are not necessarily about power struggles or policy debates but are simply accessible to or managed by the public/government. 政治的な specifically implies a connection to the mechanisms of governance and power.
When to Use: Use 公的な for things that are public property, officially sanctioned, or for general public use, e.g., 公的な建物 (kouteki na tatemono - public building), 公的な発表 (kouteki na happyou - official announcement). Use 政治的な when the context specifically involves political decision-making, ideologies, or power dynamics.
Example:
これは公的な図書館です。(Kore wa kouteki na toshokan desu.) - This is a public library.
その決定は政治的な要因に影響されました。(Sono kettei wa seijiteki na youin ni eikyou saremashita.) - That decision was influenced by political factors.
- 政策的な (Seisakuteki na) - Policy-related
- Comparison: 政策的な is a more specific adjective, directly referring to policies, or things related to policy-making and implementation. 政治的な is a more general term that encompasses policies but also broader political strategies, ideologies, and power dynamics. A policy itself is political, so 政策的な is a subset of 政治的な.
When to Use: Use 政策的な when the discussion is specifically about government policies, their formulation, or their effects, e.g., 政策的な議論 (seisakuteki na giron - policy discussion). Use 政治的な when the scope is broader, including strategy, power struggles, or the general political climate.
Example:
新しい経済政策が発表された。(Atarashii keizai seisaku ga happyou sareta.) - A new economic policy was announced.
その政策は多くの政治的な論争を引き起こした。(Sono seisaku wa ooku no seijiteki na ronsou o hikiokoshita.) - That policy caused much political controversy.
- 党派的な (Touhateki na) - Partisan
- Comparison: 党派的な specifically refers to things related to political parties or factions, often implying bias or a narrow perspective associated with a particular party. 政治的な is a broader term that can include partisan aspects but also covers non-partisan government functions, international relations, and general political discourse.
When to Use: Use 党派的な when you want to emphasize that something is biased due to party affiliation or factional interests, e.g., 党派的な見解 (touhateki na kenkai - partisan view). Use 政治的な when the context is about politics in general, without necessarily implying a specific party's involvement or bias.
Example:
その報道は党派的だと批判された。(Sono houdo wa touhateki da to hihan sareta.) - That reporting was criticized as partisan.
彼は政治的な中立を保とうとした。(Kare wa seijiteki na chuuritsu o tamotou to shita.) - He tried to maintain political neutrality.
- 権力的な (Kenryokuteki na) - Power-related, Authoritative
- Comparison: 権力的な focuses specifically on power, authority, and control. While politics inherently involves power, 政治的な is a broader term that can encompass policy, ideology, and governance structures beyond just the exercise of power. 権力的な might describe an action or a person who wields power, whereas 政治的な describes the context or nature of something related to the political system.
When to Use: Use 権力的な when the emphasis is on the exercise of authority, control, or dominance, e.g., 権力的な態度 (kenryokuteki na taido - authoritative attitude). Use 政治的な when referring to the broader sphere of government, policy, and public affairs.
Example:
彼は権力的な人物だ。(Kare wa kenryokuteki na jinbutsu da.) - He is an authoritative figure.
その改革は政治的な争点を多く含んでいた。(Sono kaikaku wa seijiteki na souten o ooku fukunde ita.) - That reform contained many political points of contention.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The character 政 (sei) is composed of the radical 'water' (氵) and the character 正 (sei), meaning 'correct' or 'proper.' This suggests the idea of governing correctly or managing water resources, which were crucial for ancient Chinese civilization. The character 治 (ji) is composed of 'water' (氵) and 'peace' (台), implying that good governance brings order and peace, often through the proper management of water.
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing 'se' as 'she'.
- Making the 'i' sound too long in 'seiji'.
- Pronouncing 'teki' with an English 'ee' sound instead of a short 'i'.
- Omitting the 'na' sound at the end.
- Adding incorrect stress patterns, making it sound unnatural.
Difficulty Rating
The word itself is straightforward, but understanding the nuances of political discourse requires contextual knowledge. Readers might encounter it in complex sentences discussing policy or international relations, which can increase difficulty.
Correctly using 政治的な requires understanding its grammatical function as a 'na'-adjective and its appropriate contexts. Overuse or misapplication can lead to awkward or incorrect phrasing.
Pronunciation is generally not a major hurdle, but using the word naturally in conversation, especially when discussing sensitive political topics, requires confidence and cultural awareness.
Recognizing 政治的な in spoken Japanese is usually easy due to its distinct sound. The challenge lies in understanding the political context it frames within a sentence or conversation.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Na-adjectives
政治的な (seijiteki na) is a na-adjective. It requires 'na' when modifying a noun (e.g., 政治的な問題). When used as a predicate, it often uses 'da' or 'desu' (e.g., その議論は政治的だった - Sono giron wa seijiteki datta).
Noun modification
Japanese nouns can be modified by adjectives. The structure 'Adjective + Noun' is common. For na-adjectives like 政治的な, the 'na' particle is essential before the noun.
Compound Nouns
Sometimes, nouns related to politics can form compound nouns, like 政治問題 (seiji mondai - political problem), where 'seiji' acts like an adjective modifying 'mondai'. However, using the explicit adjective 政治的な is also very common and sometimes preferred for clarity.
Predicate Adjectives
Na-adjectives can function as predicates, describing the subject of the sentence. In this case, the 'na' is often omitted, and 'da' or 'desu' is used. For example, 'The discussion was political' can be その議論は政治的だった (Sono giron wa seijiteki datta).
Suffix -teki
Many Japanese adjectives ending in -teki are derived from nouns and function as na-adjectives. They generally mean 'related to X' or '-al'. Examples include 科学的な (kagakuteki na - scientific) and 歴史的な (rekishiteki na - historical).
Examples by Level
これは政治的な本です。
This is a political book.
政治的な話は難しい。
Political talk is difficult.
彼は政治的な人です。
He is a political person.
政治的なニュースを見ます。
I watch political news.
これは政治的な場所ですか?
Is this a political place?
政治的な意見がありますか?
Do you have a political opinion?
政治的な絵です。
It's a political picture.
政治的な歌を聞きます。
I listen to political songs.
この国は政治的な問題を抱えています。
This country has political problems.
彼は政治的な活動に参加しました。
He participated in political activities.
その会議は政治的な議論になりました。
That meeting became a political discussion.
政治的な理由で、その法案は通らなかった。
Due to political reasons, that bill did not pass.
彼女は政治的なリーダーです。
She is a political leader.
政治的な状況が変化しています。
The political situation is changing.
この会社には政治的な駆け引きが多い。
There is a lot of political maneuvering in this company.
政治的な影響を考慮する必要がある。
We need to consider the political influence.
この地域では、政治的な緊張が高まっています。
Political tension is rising in this region.
その決定は、純粋な経済的理由だけでなく、政治的な考慮も含まれていました。
That decision included not only purely economic reasons but also political considerations.
彼は、自分の政治的な立場を明確にしました。
He clarified his political stance.
この問題は、単なる個人的な意見ではなく、政治的な意味合いを持っています。
This issue is not just a personal opinion but has political implications.
国際的な場での政治的な対立が激化している。
Political conflicts on the international stage are intensifying.
私たちは、この政策の政治的な側面を深く分析する必要がある。
We need to deeply analyze the political aspects of this policy.
彼の発言は、意図的に政治的な議論を呼ぶものだった。
His statement was intentionally designed to provoke political debate.
この組織は、政治的な力学によって動かされている。
This organization is driven by political dynamics.
その改革案は、多くの政治的な反対に直面した。
That reform proposal faced a lot of political opposition.
メディアは、しばしば政治的な意図をもって報道を行う。
The media often reports with political intentions.
この問題の根源には、複雑な政治的な背景がある。
At the root of this problem lies a complex political background.
彼は、自身の政治的なキャリアを守るために、 compromis を行った。
He made compromises to protect his political career.
その演説は、聴衆の政治的な感情を強く刺激した。
That speech strongly stimulated the audience's political sentiments.
政府は、国民の支持を得るために、政治的なアピールを強化した。
The government strengthened its political appeal to gain public support.
この紛争は、単なる領土問題ではなく、より深い政治的な対立を含んでいる。
This conflict is not merely a territorial dispute but involves deeper political confrontation.
企業は、その事業展開において、常に政治的なリスクを考慮しなければならない。
Companies must always consider political risks in their business development.
その条約は、参加国の間で長きにわたる政治的な駆け引きを経て締結された。
The treaty was concluded after lengthy political maneuvering among the participating nations.
彼の発言は、党内の権力闘争という政治的な文脈で理解されるべきだ。
His remarks should be understood in the political context of the party's power struggle.
この社会運動は、単なる社会変革を求めるだけでなく、明確な政治的な意図を内包している。
This social movement not only seeks social change but also harbors clear political intentions.
外交政策においては、しばしば建前と本音との間で微妙な政治的なバランスが求められる。
In foreign policy, a delicate political balance between outward appearance and true intentions is often required.
その芸術作品は、当時の社会状況に対する痛烈な政治的な風刺として解釈されている。
That artwork is interpreted as a scathing political satire of the social conditions of the time.
グローバル化が進む中で、国家間の政治的な相互依存関係はますます顕著になっている。
Amidst globalization, the political interdependence between nations is becoming increasingly prominent.
彼のキャリアは、数々の政治的なスキャンダルによって傷つけられた。
His career was tarnished by numerous political scandals.
この法案の成立には、与野党間の綿密な政治的な折衝が不可欠であった。
The enactment of this bill was contingent upon meticulous political negotiations between the ruling and opposition parties.
その国の政治体制は、権威主義と民主主義の入り混じった、複雑な政治的な構造を有している。
The country's political system possesses a complex political structure, a mix of authoritarianism and democracy.
歴史家たちは、その時代の社会経済的要因だけでなく、隠された政治的な動機にも焦点を当てて分析を進めている。
Historians are proceeding with their analysis by focusing not only on the socio-economic factors of the era but also on the hidden political motivations.
外交交渉の場では、しばしば両国間の微妙な政治的な力学を読み取ることが成功の鍵となる。
In diplomatic negotiations, understanding the subtle political dynamics between the two countries often becomes the key to success.
この文学作品は、表面的な物語の裏に、当時の権力構造に対する鋭い政治的な批評を潜ませている。
This literary work, beneath its superficial narrative, conceals a sharp political critique of the power structures of the time.
現代社会における政治的な言説は、しばしば情報操作やプロパガンダといった側面を帯びることがある。
Political discourse in modern society can often take on aspects of disinformation and propaganda.
その国際会議の成果は、参加国の利害関係が複雑に絡み合った、極めてデリケートな政治的な交渉の結果であった。
The outcome of that international conference was the result of extremely delicate political negotiations, where the interests of the participating nations were intricately intertwined.
彼は、自身の理想を実現するために、既成の政治的な枠組みに挑戦し続けた。
He continued to challenge the established political framework in order to realize his ideals.
この文化的現象は、単なる流行ではなく、社会の深層に根差した政治的なメッセージを内包していると解釈できる。
This cultural phenomenon can be interpreted not merely as a fad but as embodying a political message rooted in the depths of society.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— This phrase refers to issues or problems that are related to government, public policy, or power dynamics.
この国は多くの政治的な問題を抱えています。(Kono kuni wa ooku no seijiteki na mondai o kakaete imasu.) - This country faces many political problems.
— This refers to a decision that is made for political reasons, considering factors like public opinion, party interests, or strategic advantage, rather than purely technical or personal ones.
その決定は、純粋な経済的理由だけでなく、政治的な考慮も含まれていました。(Sono kettei wa, junsui na keizaiteki riyuu dake de naku, seijiteki na kouryo mo fukumarete imashita.) - That decision included not only purely economic reasons but also political considerations.
— This phrase describes the impact or influence that political factors, decisions, or events have on something or someone.
この政策は、社会に大きな政治的な影響を与えるだろう。(Kono seisaku wa, shakai ni ookina seijiteki na eikyou o ataeru darou.) - This policy will likely have a significant political impact on society.
— This refers to the current state of affairs related to politics, government, or public affairs in a particular region or country.
現在の政治的な状況は非常に不安定だ。(Genzai no seijiteki na joukyou wa hijou ni fuantei da.) - The current political situation is very unstable.
— This indicates that an action or decision was taken due to political considerations, such as maintaining power, appeasing a certain group, or advancing a political agenda.
その法案は、政治的な理由で廃案となった。(Sono houan wa, seijiteki na riyuu de haian to natta.) - That bill was scrapped for political reasons.
— This phrase describes the strategic maneuvering, negotiation, and often subtle tactics used by political actors to achieve their goals.
国会では、常に政治的な駆け引きが行われている。(Gakkai de wa, tsune ni seijiteki na kakehiki ga okonawarete iru.) - Political maneuvering is always taking place in the Diet.
— This refers to a statement or remark that is related to politics, often carrying political implications or intended to influence public opinion.
彼の政治的な発言は、多くの議論を呼んだ。(Kare no seijiteki na hatsugen wa, ooku no giron o yonda.) - His political statement sparked much debate.
— This refers to a person's or group's stated or implied political beliefs, opinions, or affiliations.
彼女は、自身の政治的な立場を明確にした。(Kanojo wa, jishin no seijiteki na tachiba o meikaku ni shita.) - She clarified her political stance.
— This refers to disagreements, conflicts, or opposition between different political groups, parties, or nations.
二国間の政治的な対立が続いている。(Nikokukan no seijiteki na tairitsu ga tsuzuite iru.) - Political conflict between the two countries continues.
— This phrase denotes an interest in or concern for political matters, public affairs, and governance.
若者の政治的な関心を高める必要がある。(Wakamono no seijiteki na kanshin o takameru hitsuyou ga aru.) - There is a need to increase the political interest of young people.
Often Confused With
政治 is the noun for 'politics' or 'government.' 政治的な is the adjective meaning 'political.' You use 政治 when referring to the subject itself, and 政治的な when describing something *as* political. For example, 'Politics is difficult' is 政治は難しい (Seiji wa muzukashii), but 'a political problem' is 政治的な問題 (Seijiteki na mondai).
公的 means 'public' or 'official.' While many political matters are public, 公的 is broader and can refer to anything accessible to the public or managed by the state, not necessarily involving power struggles or policy debates. 政治的な is more specific to the realm of governance and power.
個人的 means 'personal' or 'individual.' It's the opposite of 政治的な, which relates to public affairs. A personal decision is not political, while a government decision often is.
Easily Confused
Both 政治的な and 政策的な relate to government and public affairs.
政治的な (seijiteki na) is a broader term meaning 'political,' encompassing government, power, ideology, and strategy. 政策的な (seisakuteki na) is more specific, meaning 'policy-related,' focusing directly on government policies, their formulation, and implementation. All policies are political, but not all political matters are directly about policy.
その政策は多くの政治的な議論を呼んだ。(Sono seisaku wa ooku no seijiteki na giron o yonda.) - That policy invited much political discussion. (Here, 'political discussion' is broader than just policy.)
Both relate to politics and can imply bias.
政治的な (seijiteki na) is a general term for 'political.' 党派的な (touhateki na) specifically means 'partisan' or 'factional,' implying bias or a stance taken due to affiliation with a particular political party or group. A partisan statement is political, but not all political statements are partisan.
彼の発言は党派的だ。(Kare no hatsugen wa touhateki da.) - His statement is partisan. (Implies bias from a party.) 彼の発言は政治的だ。(Kare no hatsugen wa seijiteki da.) - His statement is political. (Could be partisan, or about broader political issues.)
Both relate to public matters and government.
政治的な (seijiteki na) specifically refers to matters of governance, power, and policy. 公的な (kouteki na) means 'public' or 'official' and can refer to anything that is publicly accessible, officially recognized, or state-run, even if it doesn't involve political strategy or debate (e.g., a public library, an official notice).
これは公的な図書館です。(Kore wa kouteki na toshokan desu.) - This is a public library. (Official, accessible to all.) その決定は政治的な理由からでした。(Sono kettei wa seijiteki na riyuu kara deshita.) - That decision was for political reasons. (Involves governance/power.)
They represent opposite ends of a spectrum (public vs. private).
政治的な (seijiteki na) relates to public affairs, government, and collective decision-making. 個人的な (kojinteki na) relates to an individual's personal life, feelings, opinions, or preferences. They are antonyms in scope.
政治的な問題と個人的な悩みを混同しないでください。(Seijiteki na mondai to kojinteki na nayami o kondou shinaide kudasai.) - Please do not confuse political issues with personal worries.
Both are related to power, which is central to politics.
政治的な (seijiteki na) refers to the broader sphere of politics, governance, policy, and public affairs. 権力的な (kenryokuteki na) specifically describes the exercise of power, authority, or control, often with a connotation of dominance or authoritativeness. A political situation might involve power, but not all political matters are solely about the direct wielding of authority.
彼は権力的な人物だ。(Kare wa kenryokuteki na jinbutsu da.) - He is an authoritative figure. (Focus on his personal power.) その改革は政治的な争点となった。(Sono kaikaku wa seijiteki na souten to natta.) - That reform became a political point of contention. (Broader political issue.)
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は/が + 政治的だ/です。
そのニュースは政治的です。(Sono nyuusu wa seijiteki desu.) - That news is political.
政治的な + Noun
政治的な問題について話しましょう。(Seijiteki na mondai ni tsuite hanashimashou.) - Let's talk about political issues.
Noun + は/が + 政治的な + Noun + です。
その決定は政治的な要因が大きかった。(Sono kettei wa seijiteki na youin ga ookikatta.) - Political factors were significant in that decision.
政治的な理由で + Verb
政治的な理由で、会議は延期された。(Seijiteki na riyuu de, kaigi wa enki sareta.) - The meeting was postponed for political reasons.
Noun + の + 政治的な側面
この問題の政治的な側面を理解することが重要だ。(Kono mondai no seijiteki na sokumen o rikai suru koto ga juuyou da.) - It is important to understand the political aspects of this problem.
政治的な + Noun + を + Verb
私たちは政治的な影響を考慮する必要がある。(Watashitachi wa seijiteki na eikyou o kouryo suru hitsuyou ga aru.) - We need to consider the political influence.
~は、政治的な + Noun + を + 含んでいる。
その紛争は、より深い政治的な対立を含んでいる。(Sono funsou wa, yori fukai seijiteki na tairitsu o fukunde iru.) - That conflict involves deeper political confrontation.
政治的な + Noun + として + Verb
その芸術作品は、政治的な風刺として解釈されている。(Sono geijutsu sakuhin wa, seijiteki na fuushi to shite kaishaku sarete iru.) - That artwork is interpreted as political satire.
Word Family
Nouns
Related
How to Use It
High, especially in media, academic, and formal discussions.
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Omitting the 'na' particle.
→
政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai)
As a na-adjective, 政治的な requires the 'na' particle when directly modifying a noun. Failing to include it results in an ungrammatical phrase.
-
Confusing 政治的な with 政治.
→
政治的な決定 (seijiteki na kettei) vs. 政治は重要です (Seiji wa juuyou desu).
政治的な is an adjective meaning 'political,' used to describe nouns. 政治 is a noun meaning 'politics' or 'government.' They have different grammatical functions and cannot be interchanged.
-
Using 政治的な for general 'public' matters.
→
公的な建物 (kouteki na tatemono - public building) instead of 政治的な建物.
While political matters are often public, 政治的な specifically implies a connection to governance, power, or policy. 公的な is the correct term for things that are simply 'public' or 'official' without necessarily involving political strategy.
-
Overusing 政治的な for non-political situations.
→
This is a complex situation. (この状況は複雑です - Kono joukyou wa fukuzatsu desu.) instead of This is a political situation.
Not every complex or strategic situation is political. Using 政治的な when it doesn't genuinely relate to government, policy, or power can sound unnatural or incorrect. Ensure the context truly involves political elements.
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Using 政治的な as an adverb without 'ni'.
→
政治的に判断する (seijiteki ni handan suru - to judge politically) vs. 政治的な判断 (seijiteki na handan - political judgment).
While 政治的 can be used adverbially with 'ni' (e.g., 政治的に行動する - seijiteki ni koudou suru - to act politically), it's crucial to remember its primary adjectival form requires 'na' before a noun. The adverbial form has a different grammatical structure.
Tips
Na-Adjective Rule
Remember that 政治的な is a 'na'-adjective. Always include 'na' when it directly modifies a noun. For example, 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai), not 政治的問題 (seijiteki mondai).
Distinguish from Noun
Don't confuse 政治的な (political - adjective) with 政治 (seiji - politics, government - noun). Use the noun when talking about the subject of politics, and the adjective when describing something as being related to politics.
Nuance of Usage
While 政治的な is neutral, pay attention to the context. It can sometimes imply strategic maneuvering or power plays, especially in informal or figurative uses. In formal contexts like news, it's a factual descriptor.
News Analysis
When you read or hear Japanese news, actively look for 政治的な. Try to identify what it's describing and why that aspect is considered political. This will solidify your understanding.
Even Stress
Pronounce 政治的な with relatively even stress on each syllable. Avoid strong emphasis on one part, which can sound unnatural. Focus on clear pronunciation of each sound: 'se-i-ji-te-ki-na'.
Comparing with 公的
Understand the difference between 政治的な (political) and 公的な (public/official). 公的な is broader and can include non-political public services, whereas 政治的な specifically relates to governance and power.
Opposite Meaning
The direct opposite is 非政治的な (hiseijiteki na - non-political). Also, consider personal/private terms like 個人的な (kojinteki na) or 私的な (shiteki na) as contrasts to the public nature of 'political.'
Common Pairings
Learn common phrases like 政治的な問題 (political problem), 政治的な決定 (political decision), and 政治的な影響 (political influence) to use the word more naturally.
Reserved Discussions
Be aware that overt political discussions might be less common in casual Japanese social settings compared to some other cultures. The term itself is neutral, but the context of its use matters.
Figurative Use
In informal contexts, 政治的な can sometimes be used figuratively to describe strategic or manipulative behavior within non-political groups (e.g., office politics). Use this cautiously and be aware of the implied criticism.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a politician (政治家 - seijika) wearing a very distinctive, bright 'tie' (teki). This 'political tie' is a symbol of their political nature. So, 'Seiji' + 'teki' (tie) = Political. The 'na' is just the grammatical connector.
Visual Association
Picture a government building with a large, prominent sign that says 'POLITICAL'. The building is grand and official. The word 政治的な (seijiteki na) is written across the top in bold letters. Imagine this image whenever you encounter the word.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three recent news events using the adjective 政治的な. For each event, explain why you chose this adjective and what aspect of it is political.
Word Origin
The term 政治 (seiji) itself is derived from Chinese characters. The character 政 (sei) means 'government' or 'rule,' and 治 (ji) means 'to govern' or 'to manage.' Together, they form the concept of politics or governance. The suffix 的 (teki) is a common suffix in Japanese used to turn nouns into adjectives, meaning 'related to' or '-al' in English. Thus, 政治的 (seijiteki) means 'political,' and 政治的な (seijiteki na) is its adjectival form used before nouns.
Original meaning: The original meaning of 政治 (seiji) was 'to govern the state' or 'to manage public affairs.' The addition of 的 (teki) shifted its function to describe things pertaining to this concept.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese)Cultural Context
While 政治的な is a neutral descriptor, discussions about specific political parties, ideologies, or controversial policies can be sensitive. It's advisable to be aware of the context and audience when engaging in or discussing such topics.
In English-speaking cultures, political discourse can often be more open and direct, with public debates being a common feature. The term 'political' is used broadly to encompass everything from high-level diplomacy to office politics and personal opinions on societal issues.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
News reports about government actions or international relations.
- 政治的な影響
- 政治的な状況
- 政治的な決定
Discussions about social issues and their connection to policy.
- 政治的な課題
- 政治的な理由
- 政治的な関心
Academic analysis of historical events or societal structures.
- 政治的な背景
- 政治的な側面
- 政治的な対立
Conversations about elections and political campaigns.
- 政治的な発言
- 政治的な立場
- 政治的な駆け引き
Internal discussions within organizations about strategy or power dynamics.
- 政治的な社内状況
- 政治的な力学
Conversation Starters
"What do you think are the most pressing political issues facing Japan today?"
"How does the political climate affect your daily life?"
"Are there any political events you are following closely in the news?"
"What are your thoughts on the political system in your country?"
"Do you believe it's important for young people to be politically engaged?"
Journal Prompts
Reflect on a recent political event you encountered. How did it make you feel, and what were its political implications?
Describe a time you witnessed or experienced political maneuvering, either in a formal setting or informally. What did you learn from it?
Consider a policy that directly affects your community. What are its political motivations and potential consequences?
If you could change one political aspect of your country or society, what would it be and why?
How do you think understanding political terms like 政治的な can help you better comprehend Japanese society and media?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions政治 (seiji) is a noun meaning 'politics' or 'government.' It refers to the concept or activity itself. 政治的な (seijiteki na) is an adjective meaning 'political.' It is used to describe things that are related to or concerned with politics, government, public affairs, or power. For example, you would say 政治は難しい (Seiji wa muzukashii - Politics is difficult) using the noun, but you would say 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai - political problem) using the adjective to describe the nature of the problem.
The particle 'na' is used when 政治的な directly modifies a noun. This is because 政治的な is a 'na'-adjective. For example, 'political decision' is 政治的な決定 (seijiteki na kettei). If 政治的な is used as a predicate (describing the subject), the 'na' is usually omitted, and 'da' or 'desu' is used, like in その議論は政治的だった (Sono giron wa seijiteki datta - That discussion was political).
While 政治的な itself is a neutral term, the contexts in which it's used can range from formal (news, academic) to informal. However, very informal or slangy conversations might use simpler phrasing or imply political undertones without explicitly using the word. In informal settings, it might be used to describe something as 'strategic' or 'calculating' in a non-governmental context, sometimes with a slightly critical tone.
No, 政治的な is a neutral descriptor. It simply means 'political.' However, in certain contexts, especially when describing decisions or actions, it can imply that the motivation was strategic or based on power dynamics rather than purely objective reasons, which can sometimes carry a negative connotation. But in general news reporting or academic analysis, it's used factually.
The most direct and common translation is 'political.' It functions similarly as an adjective modifying nouns, such as 'political issues,' 'political decisions,' or 'political influence.'
It is quite common, especially when discussing current events, social issues, or news. If you consume Japanese media or engage in conversations about societal matters, you will encounter it frequently. It's a fundamental adjective for discussing anything related to governance and public life.
政治的な (seijiteki na) means 'political,' referring to governance, power, and policy. 公的な (kouteki na) means 'public' or 'official.' While political matters are often public, 公的な can describe anything that is public or state-run, even if it's not directly about political strategy (e.g., a public park). 政治的な implies a connection to the mechanisms of power and decision-making in a state or community.
Yes, you can describe a person as 政治的な (seijiteki na) if they are involved in politics, have strong political views, or are politically active. For example, 彼は政治的な人物だ (Kare wa seijiteki na jinbutsu da - He is a political figure/person).
The word comes from the Chinese characters 政治 (seiji), meaning 'government' or 'rule,' combined with the suffix 的 (teki), which turns nouns into adjectives. So, 政治的な literally means 'related to government/rule.'
Try writing sentences about news events, government policies, or social issues using 政治的な. Also, practice distinguishing it from similar words like 公的な or 政策的な. Reading Japanese news articles and identifying its usage is also very helpful.
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Summary
The adjective 政治的な (seijiteki na) means 'political.' It's used to describe anything related to government, public policy, power, and influence. Remember to use the 'na' particle when it modifies a noun, such as in 政治的な問題 (political problem). This term is prevalent in news, academic discussions, and general commentary on societal affairs.
- Political; relating to government and public affairs.
- Describes things connected to power, policy, and governance.
- Use 'na' when modifying a noun (e.g., 政治的な問題).
- Common in news, academia, and discussions of society.
Na-Adjective Rule
Remember that 政治的な is a 'na'-adjective. Always include 'na' when it directly modifies a noun. For example, 政治的な問題 (seijiteki na mondai), not 政治的問題 (seijiteki mondai).
Distinguish from Noun
Don't confuse 政治的な (political - adjective) with 政治 (seiji - politics, government - noun). Use the noun when talking about the subject of politics, and the adjective when describing something as being related to politics.
Nuance of Usage
While 政治的な is neutral, pay attention to the context. It can sometimes imply strategic maneuvering or power plays, especially in informal or figurative uses. In formal contexts like news, it's a factual descriptor.
News Analysis
When you read or hear Japanese news, actively look for 政治的な. Try to identify what it's describing and why that aspect is considered political. This will solidify your understanding.
Related Content
More general words
いくつか
B1An unspecified small number of things; some, a few.
ちょっと
A2A little; a moment; a bit. Small amount or short time.
すこし
A2A little; a few.
さっき
A2A little while ago; a short time past.
能力
A1Nouryoku refers to the mental or physical power, skill, or capacity required to perform a specific task or function. It can describe both innate talent and skills acquired through learning and practice.
異常
A1A word used to describe something that deviates from the normal state, standard, or expected pattern. It often implies a problem, malfunction, or an extraordinary occurrence that requires attention or investigation.
~について
A2About, concerning; indicates topic.
〜について
B1About, concerning; on the subject of.
~ぐらい
A2about, approximately
ぐらい
A2About; approximately; to the extent of.