How to say "objective" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 客観きゃっかんno-adjectiveCovers the philosophical noun: objectivity, or the objective as what exists independently of the mind, as opposed to the subjective. Not the word for an objective in the sense of a goal.
- 使い道つかいみちnounLiterally the way a thing is used: its practical purpose or utility. As 'objective' it is marginal — seldom the word you want for an aim you set out to achieve.
- 客観的きゃっかんてきna-adjectiveThe adjective: describes judgments, analyses, or descriptions that are impartial and based on facts rather than personal feelings — an objective assessment or view.
- 目的もくてきnounThe word for an objective in the sense of a purpose or goal: what a plan, project, or activity is meant to achieve.
- 目標もくひょうnounAn objective as a target: something concrete you aim at and work toward reaching; it overlaps with 目的 but suggests a mark to hit rather than the underlying purpose.
Choose 客観的 for the adjective meaning impartial, 客観 for the philosophical noun of objectivity, 目的 for the purpose you pursue, 目標 for a target you aim at, and avoid 「使い道」 except for a thing's use.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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