How to say "unity" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • 統一とういつJLPT N2approx.Common
    noun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers unity as unification or uniformity: making scattered or divided things into one, as in unifying policies, styles, or organizations. The focus is on the act or result of consolidating into a single whole.
    スコットランドとイングランドの統一とういつは1706年ねんに行おこなわれた。↗
    The union of Scotland and England took place in 1706.
  • 統合とうごうJLPT N1approx.Common
    noun, suru verb, transitive verbCovers unity as integration: combining separate parts, systems, or functions so they work as one. Commonly felt when talking about merging organizations, software, or services into an integrated whole.
    天皇てんのうは国民こくみんの統合とうごうの象徴しょうちょうである。↗
    The Emperor is the symbol of the unity of the people.
  • 団結だんけつJLPT N1approx.Common
    noun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers unity in the sense of solidarity among people or groups standing together, often toward a common goal. This is the usual word for workers, team members, or citizens being united.
    2つのグループが団結だんけつして1つの政党せいとうになった。↗
    Two groups united to form a party.
  • 持ち合いもちあいCommon
    nounThis one is seldom the word you want for 'unity'; it really means an even matching or balance of power, such as a hung parliament or mutual dependence between parties holding each other in check.
  • 結束けっそくJLPT N1approx.Common
    noun, suru verb, transitive verb, intransitive verbCovers unity as solidarity and close cohesion within a group, stressing members bound firmly together. Similar to 団結 but often used for the strong internal bonds of a team, family, or organization.

For unity among people choose 団結 or 結束; for bringing parts or systems together into one choose 統一 or 統合; 「持ち合い」 is really about balance and interdependence, not unity.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

Japanese equivalents
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JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

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