主権

しゅけん

sovereignty

JLPT N1

Character Breakdown

Understanding 主権 (Sovereignty)

主権 refers to the supreme authority or power that a state or entity holds independently. It is a fundamental concept in politics and international relations, indicating the right to govern without external interference.

Usage in Context

主権 is often used when discussing national independence, legal authority, and international diplomacy. For example, countries emphasize protecting their 主権 to maintain autonomy. It also appears in legal and political documents.

Common Collocations and Patterns

  • 主権を守る (protect sovereignty): Used when a country or group defends its independent authority.
  • 主権を回復する (restore sovereignty): Often used in historical or political contexts when a territory regains independence.
  • 主権国家 (sovereign state): Refers to a state with full sovereignty.
  • 主権を尊重する (respect sovereignty): Common in diplomatic language emphasizing non-interference.

Register and Nuance

主権 is a formal term mostly used in political, legal, and academic contexts. It is not commonly used in casual conversation but is essential for understanding discussions about governance and international affairs.

Common Learner Mistake

Confusing 主権 with 権利 (rights) can happen. 主権 specifically refers to supreme governing authority, not just any right or privilege. Remember it relates to sovereignty and control at the state or organizational level.

Example Sentences

くにはしゅけんをまもるためにほうりつをせいていした。

The country enacted laws to protect its sovereignty.

しょくみんちはどくりつしてしゅけんをかいふくした。

The colony gained independence and restored its sovereignty.

こくれんはかめいこくのしゅけんをそんちょうすることをげんそくとしている。

The United Nations operates on the principle of respecting the sovereignty of member states.