In the term Victory over Japan Day, what does “V-J” stand for?

In the term Victory over Japan Day, “V-J” stands for Victory over Japan.

The abbreviation parallels “V-E,” meaning Victory in Europe, which marked Germany’s defeat in May 1945. “V-J Day” refers to the Allied victory over Japan and the end of World War II in the Pacific. The label is especially associated with August 14–15, 1945, when Japan’s surrender was announced, although the formal surrender ceremony took place later.

The date can vary by country and time zone. President Harry S. Truman announced Japan’s acceptance of the Allied terms to the American public on August 14, Washington time. In Japan, Emperor Hirohito’s radio announcement was broadcast on August 15, Japan Standard Time. The surrender document was signed aboard USS Missouri on September 2.

Thus, “V-J” identifies the defeated country, Japan, rather than the location, the Japanese emperor, or a particular military operation. The expression remains common in historical writing, commemorations, and discussions of the final days of the Pacific War.