在位(ざいい)

ざいい
noun, suru verb
being on the throne, reign
1. being on the throne, reign, tenure (of a monarch)
The state of a monarch occupying the throne. Describes the period during which a ruler holds sovereign power. Primarily used for emperors and kings.
在位(ざいい)期間(きかん)は三十年(さんじゅうねん)だった。
The reign lasted thirty years.
その王(おう)は五十年(ごじゅうねん)にわたって在位(ざいい)した。
That king reigned for fifty years.
天皇(てんのう)の在位(ざいい)中(ちゅう)に元号(げんごう)が改(あらた)められることは、歴史上(れきしじょう)まれではない。
It is not rare in history for the era name to be changed during an emperor's reign.

USAGE:
在位(ざいい) is used specifically for monarchs and sovereigns. It is not used for presidents or prime ministers (those use 在任(ざいにん) or 在職(ざいしょく)). In Japanese context, it is most commonly associated with the Emperor.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 在位(ざいい)期間(きかん): period of reign
  • 在位(ざいい)中(ちゅう): during the reign
  • 在位(ざいい)年数(ねんすう): number of years on the throne
  • 在位(ざいい)最長(さいちょう): longest reign

Related Words

Related: 在職(ざいしょく) (being in office (general))
general
Added 2026.2.20 17:59
12000/12141_zaii