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別姓制度

べっせいせいど
noun★Intermediate💡 separate surname system
⚖️Law
formal

A legal system allowing married couples to retain their individual surnames instead of adopting a common surname.

夫婦が別姓を選択できる別姓制度は、個人の尊厳を重視する社会の流れを反映している。

The separate surname system, which allows couples to choose their own surnames, reflects a societal shift toward valuing individual dignity.

💡

This term specifically refers to systems where both partners keep their original surnames after marriage, unlike the traditional Japanese system where one partner (usually the wife) adopts the other's surname.

⚖️Law
technical

A legal framework permitting married individuals to use their maiden name in official and social contexts.

別姓制度を導入することで、女性の社会進出がしやすくなると期待されている。

It is hoped that introducing the separate surname system will make it easier for women to advance in society.

💡

Often discussed in the context of gender equality and women's rights in Japan.

Collocations

別姓制度を導入するto introduce the separate surname system別姓を選択するto choose separate surnames別姓制度をめぐる議論debates surrounding the separate surname system

Synonyms

夫婦別姓別姓選択制

Antonyms

同姓制度

Related Phrases

夫婦同姓phrase
married couple using the same surname
選択的夫婦別姓phrase
optional separate surname system for married couples

💡Pro Tip

Cultural Context

In Japan, the traditional family registry system (戸籍, koseki) requires married couples to share the same surname. The debate over 別姓制度 reflects broader discussions about gender roles, individual rights, and modernization in Japanese society.

⚡Gold Rule

Legal vs. Social Meaning

While 別姓制度 literally means 'system of separate surnames,' its usage in Japan is heavily tied to legal and social reform debates. It is not just about names but about gender equality and personal identity in marriage.

📖Word Origin

Composed of 別姓 (べっせい, 'separate surnames') and 制度 (せいど, 'system'). The term emerged in modern legal and sociological discourse, particularly in discussions about gender equality and individual rights in marriage.

📝Usage Notes

This term is primarily used in legal and sociological contexts in Japan. It is often debated in relation to traditional Japanese family structures and modern values of individualism. The system is already implemented in some countries like the U.S. and parts of Europe, but remains controversial in Japan.

Word Breakdown

別姓
separate surnames
compound
+
制度
system
suffix
和英辞典

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