踏襲(とうしゅう)

とうしゅう
noun, verb (suru)
following (a precedent); carrying on
1. following a precedent; carrying on unchanged
Continuing or adopting a policy, method, or practice that was established by a predecessor, without significant changes. Often used in political and organizational contexts.
前任者(ぜんにんしゃ)の方針(ほうしん)を踏襲(とうしゅう)する。
To follow the policy of one's predecessor.
新(あたら)しい社長(しゃちょう)は前(まえ)の経営(けいえい)方針(ほうしん)を踏襲(とうしゅう)すると発表(はっぴょう)した。
The new president announced that he would carry on the previous management policy.
伝統(でんとう)をただ踏襲(とうしゅう)するだけでなく、時代(じだい)に合(あ)わせて変(か)えていくことも大切(たいせつ)だ。
It's important not just to follow tradition but also to adapt to the times.

Compound of 踏(とう) (to tread upon) + 襲(しゅう) (to succeed to, to inherit). Literally "to walk in the same footsteps." Formal in tone, frequently used in news, politics, and business.

Can carry a neutral or slightly negative nuance depending on context — sometimes implying a lack of originality or unwillingness to reform.

COMMON COLLOCATIONS:

  • 方針(ほうしん)を踏襲(とうしゅう)する (follow a policy)
  • 路線(ろせん)を踏襲(とうしゅう)する (continue a course/direction)
  • 伝統(でんとう)を踏襲(とうしゅう)する (follow tradition)
  • 前例(ぜんれい)を踏襲(とうしゅう)する (follow precedent)

SIMILAR WORDS:

  • 継承(けいしょう): inheriting and carrying on (more positive, emphasizes succession)
  • 受(う)け継(つ)ぐ: to inherit, to succeed to (broader, everyday usage)
general
Added 2026.2.28 18:25
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