国粋主義

• Reading: こくすいしゅぎ
• Romaji: kokusui shugi
• Kanji breakdown: 国 (koku) — nation; 粋 (sui) — essence, purity; 主義 (shugi) — ideology, ism
• Pronunciation: /ko.kɯ.sɯi.ɕɯ.ɡi/

Meaning

Ultranationalism; national chauvinism. An extreme form of nationalism that asserts the superiority of one's nation and rejects foreign influence.

A compound noun formed from 国粋 (national essence/purity) and 主義 (ism/ideology). In Japanese history it is closely associated with pre-WWII political movements that glorified Japanese tradition and imperial authority while opposing Westernisation. Today it is used analytically and critically in political science and journalism. Distinct from 愛国心 (patriotism) in its exclusionary and often aggressive character.

Examples

1. 20世紀前半に国粋主義が台頭したことで、日本は軍国主義へと傾いていった。 The rise of ultranationalism in the first half of the 20th century led Japan toward militarism.
2. 国粋主義的な言動は現代においても一部の政治勢力に見られる。 Ultranationalist rhetoric can still be seen among certain political factions today.
3. 歴史教育において、国粋主義の危険性を正しく伝えることが重要だ。 It is important to accurately convey the dangers of ultranationalism in history education.

Usage Guide

Context: political science, history, ideology, journalism

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Coined in the Meiji era. 国粋 combines 国 (nation) and 粋 (essence, purity), reflecting ideals of preserving Japan's unique cultural heritage against Western encroachment. The suffix 主義 denotes an ideology or doctrine.

Cultural Context

Era: Meiji–Shōwa

Generation: Adults

Social background: Educated