meiji: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Academic / Historical / Formal
Quick answer
What does “meiji” mean?
Refers to the period of Japanese history from 1868 to 1912, marked by the reign of Emperor Meiji and Japan's rapid modernization and westernization.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Refers to the period of Japanese history from 1868 to 1912, marked by the reign of Emperor Meiji and Japan's rapid modernization and westernization.
Used adjectivally to describe the art, culture, politics, or industrial developments of that era. Can also refer to Emperor Meiji himself.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in usage or meaning. Both varieties use the term identically within historical/academic contexts.
Connotations
Connotes a pivotal era of transformation, modernization, and the emergence of Japan as a modern state.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in both varieties, confined to specific contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “meiji” in a Sentence
the Meiji of (e.g., The Meiji of 1870 was a time of upheaval.)during the MeijiMeiji + Noun (as modifier)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “meiji” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The museum has a superb collection of Meiji bronzes.
- Meiji-era diplomacy was complex.
American English
- She specializes in Meiji political history.
- This is a classic Meiji restoration narrative.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in discussions of Japanese corporate history or economic development.
Academic
Common in history, Asian studies, political science, and art history papers and lectures.
Everyday
Very rare. Unlikely to be used outside of specific educational or cultural discussions.
Technical
Used precisely in historical chronology and periodization.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “meiji”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “meiji”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “meiji”
- Misspelling as 'Meijji', 'Meidji', or 'Mei-Ji'.
- Using it as a common noun (e.g., 'a meiji').
- Incorrect pronunciation: /maɪdʒi/ or /miːdʒi/.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, it is a proper noun referring to a specific emperor and historical period.
Only as a historical/cultural modifier (e.g., Meiji architecture). It is not a general descriptive adjective.
'Meiji Restoration' is the specific term for the 1868 events that restored imperial rule under Emperor Meiji and began the period.
No. It is a specialized historical term most often encountered in educational, academic, or cultural contexts.
Refers to the period of Japanese history from 1868 to 1912, marked by the reign of Emperor Meiji and Japan's rapid modernization and westernization.
Meiji is usually academic / historical / formal in register.
Meiji: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmeɪdʒiː/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmeɪdʒi/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A Meiji mentality (rare: referring to openness to reform and modernization)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'MAY-JEE'. Japan said 'MAY we achieve' modernization during the Meiji.
Conceptual Metaphor
MEIJI IS A FOUNDATION: The Meiji period is the foundation of modern Japan.
Practice
Quiz
What does 'Meiji' primarily refer to in English usage?