現行法

• Reading: げんこうほう
• Romaji: genkouhou
• Kanji breakdown: 現 (gen) — present, current; 行 (kou) — carry out, enforce; 法 (hou) — law
• Pronunciation: /geɴ.koː.hoː/

Meaning

Existing law; current legislation; laws in force. The body of laws currently in effect.

A noun referring to laws that are currently in effect and enforceable, as opposed to proposed laws or repealed laws. Composed of 現行 (genkou, current/existing) and 法 (hou, law). Commonly used in legal discussions, parliamentary debates, and media coverage of legislation. Often contrasted with proposed amendments or new bills: 現行法では対応できない (genkouhou de wa taiou dekinai, current law cannot address this).

Examples

1. 現行法ではこの行為を罰することができない。 Under current law, this act cannot be punished.
2. 現行法の改正が必要だという声が高まっている。 There are growing calls for revisions to existing law.
3. 弁護士は現行法に基づいて主張を組み立てた。 The attorney built their argument based on current law.

Usage Guide

Context: law, parliament, policy discussion

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 現 (gen, present/current) + 行 (kou, carry out/enforce) + 法 (hou, law). Literally 'currently enforced law' — legislation that is presently in effect.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated