How to say "axiom" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 公理こうりno-adjectiveThe formal term for an axiom in mathematics and logic: a starting proposition accepted without proof, as in geometry or set theory. This is the word you want for technical, academic contexts, though it is a less common word overall.
- 自明の理じめいのりexpression, nounCovers the 'self-evident truth' or truism sense of 'axiom' — something so obvious it needs no argument. It suits general or rhetorical discussion of plain truths rather than formal systems, and is itself a less common expression.
- 要請ようせいnounA common word rendered 'axiom' in the sense of a postulate or assumed requirement — a premise adopted for the sake of argument or theory. In many contexts it really means 'demand' or 'request', so check that this assumption sense fits before using it.
Use 公理 for the formal logical or mathematical sense, 「自明の理」 for a self-evident truth in everyday reasoning, and 要請 when 'axiom' means an assumed premise or postulate.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
