1.
main clause; main sentence (grammar)
In grammar, the principal clause of a complex sentence, which can stand alone as a sentence. Contrasts with 従属節 (subordinate clause).
文の主文を探す。
To find the main clause of the sentence.
従属節は主文を修飾する。
The subordinate clause modifies the main clause.
複文では、主文が文全体の中心となる。
In a complex sentence, the main clause is the core of the whole sentence.
2.
operative part of a court ruling; main text
In legal usage, the portion of a court judgment stating the actual ruling (acquittal, sentence, damages awarded), as distinct from the reasoning that supports it.
判決の主文が読み上げられた。
The operative part of the verdict was read aloud.
主文、被告人を懲役三年に処する。
Ruling: the defendant is sentenced to three years' imprisonment.
裁判官は判決理由を述べた後、主文を言い渡した。
After stating the reasons for the judgment, the judge handed down the operative ruling.
Compound of 主 (main, principal) + 文 (sentence, text). Two technical uses:
GRAMMAR USE (sense 1):
The main clause of a complex sentence — the part that can stand on its own. The subordinate clause (従属節) modifies or qualifies it.
LEGAL USE (sense 2):
In a Japanese court judgment, the 主文 is the operative ruling (e.g. the sentence, the dismissal), distinct from the 理由 (reasoning). The 主文 is what is formally pronounced in court.
RELATED TERMS:
- 複文: complex sentence
- 従属節: subordinate clause
- 判決: court judgment