How to say "legitimate" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 正統せいとうna-adjective, no-adjectiveCovers 'legitimate' in the sense of rightful or orthodox, as of succession, lineage, or doctrine. It emphasizes being the true, proper line or school rather than mere legality, as in legitimate heirs or orthodox teachings.
- 合法ごうほうna-adjective, no-adjectiveCovers 'legitimate' meaning lawful or legal, that is, permitted by law. It is the usual choice when the contrast is simply with what is illegal, as in legitimate business activities.
- 適法てきほうna-adjective, no-adjectiveAlso covers 'legitimate' meaning lawful or legal, with a somewhat formal, legal-technical flavor. It suits contexts such as court rulings or regulations where proper legal procedure is at issue rather than everyday legality.
- 合法的ごうほうてきna-adjectiveThe adjectival form corresponding to 合法, meaning legal, lawful, or legitimate. Use it when you need an adjective directly modifying a noun, as in a legitimate or lawful method; it can also suggest law-abiding behavior.
- 正規せいきno-adjective, na-adjectiveCovers 'legitimate' in the sense of regular, formal, or official, as in a legitimate or proper channel or procedure. Its focus is on conforming to established, official norms rather than on legality alone.
Use 正統 for legitimate in the sense of rightful or orthodox authority, 合法 or 適法 for lawful and legal senses (合法的 as the adjectival form), and 正規 for formal, regular, or official legitimacy.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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