1.
reform, revolution, fundamental change
A sweeping, fundamental change to a system, institution, or way of doing things. Stronger than mere improvement — implies restructuring or overhaul at a deep level.
社会変革を目指す。
Aim for social reform.
技術の進歩が産業に大きな変革をもたらした。
Technological progress brought about great transformation in industry.
教育制度の変革なくして、この問題は解決しないだろう。
Without reform of the education system, this problem will likely not be solved.
USAGE:
A formal word used in political, social, and business contexts. Often appears in discussions of systemic or institutional change. Carries a more dramatic, fundamental connotation than 改革 (reform), though the two overlap significantly.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 社会変革: social reform/revolution
- 意識変革: change in mindset
- 変革を起こす: bring about change
- 変革の時代: era of transformation
- 構造変革: structural transformation
SIMILAR WORDS:
変革 implies a fundamental, sweeping transformation. 改革 (reform) is the most common word for institutional reform and may be more incremental. 革命 (revolution) implies even more drastic, often violent change.