Translation and Meaning of: 専制 - sensei

The Japanese word 専制 (せんせい) may seem simple at first glance, but it carries important nuances in both its meaning and its use. In this article, we will explore what this expression represents, its origin, and how it is applied in everyday life in Japan. If you are studying Japanese or are just curious about less common terms, understanding 専制 can enrich your vocabulary and your understanding of Japanese culture.

In addition to uncovering the literal meaning of the word, we will analyze its historical context and how it is perceived socially. Does 専制 appear frequently in everyday conversations? Are there expressions or proverbs that use it? These are some of the questions we will answer below, always based on reliable sources and verified information.

Meaning and Translation of 専制

専制 (せんせい) is a term that can be translated as "autocracy" or "despotism." It describes a system or behavior in which power is concentrated in the hands of a single person or group, without regard for the opinions or rights of others. The word combines the kanjis 専 (specialized, exclusive) and 制 (control, system), reinforcing the idea of unilateral dominance.

It is important to note that 専制 is not limited to political contexts. It can also be used to describe interpersonal relationships where one person exerts excessive control over another. For example, an authoritarian boss or a dominating family member can be described with this word, depending on the context.

Origin and Historical Use

The origin of 専制 dates back to classical Chinese, where it was used to criticize tyrannical governments. In Japan, the term gained prominence during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when discussions about modernization and forms of government intensified. At that time, it was often contrasted with concepts such as democracy and freedom, which were beginning to gain ground in public debate.

Although it has ancient roots, 専制 still appears in contemporary discussions, especially in political analyses or social critiques. However, its use in everyday life is relatively rare, as it is a more formal and specific term. You would hardly hear it in casual conversations unless the topic was related to politics, history, or philosophy.

Cultural and Social Context

In Japan, where group harmony and consensus are important values, the idea behind 専制 goes against some fundamental cultural principles. This explains why the word often carries a negative connotation, associated with behaviors considered undesirable or outdated. In traditional companies or families, for example, accusing someone of acting with 専制 can be a serious criticism.

Curiously, although Japan has had periods of highly centralized government in the past, the term 専制 is more commonly used to describe foreign systems or specific historical figures than to discuss Japanese society itself. This critical distance may reflect a certain self-awareness about the dangers of authoritarianism, shaped by the experiences of the 20th century.

Tips for Memorizing

An effective way to remember 専制 is to associate its kanjis with mental images. The first character, 専, can be linked to the idea of something exclusive or specialized, while 制 refers to control or rules. Together, they form the concept of "exclusive control," which is exactly what the word means. Creating a visual story with these elements can aid in memorization.

Another strategy is to practice with real examples. Watching documentaries or reading news about authoritarian regimes while thinking about the term 専制 can reinforce your understanding. Suki Nihongo, one of the best online Japanese dictionaries, offers tools to save words like this in personalized study lists, making review easier.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 独裁 (Dokusai) - Dictatorship; authoritarian government, where power is exercised by a single person.
• 独断 (Dokudan) - Unilateral decision; act of deciding without consulting others.
• 独裁制 (Dokusai-sei) - Dictatorship system; a governmental structure where a single entity has absolute control.
• 専権 (Senken) - Exclusive power; authority reserved for a person or group in a specific area.
• 専制政治 (Sensei-seiji) - Authoritarian politics; government led by an authority that does not tolerate opposition.

専制

Romaji: sensei
Kana: せんせい
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n2

Translation / Meaning: Despotism; autocracy

Meaning in English: despotism;autocracy

Definition: A person or group of people with arbitrary power.

Example Sentences - (専制) sensei

See below some example sentences:

専制主義は民主主義とは対極にある。

Senshoku shugi wa minshu shugi to wa taikyoku ni aru

Despotism is opposite to democracy.

The tube is the opposite of democracy.

• 専制主義 - political system in which power is exercised in an absolute way by a single person or group
• 民主主義 - political system in which power is exercised by the people, through elections and popular participation
• 対極 - opposite, contrary
• にある - to be in, to be present in