Even after it was translated as "kokka," because the word "kokka" had been used in the same meaning as "waka," the meaning of poem in Japanese language opposing to kanshi (Chinese-style poem) prevailed and the meaning of national anthem could not be understood by people in general.
国歌と訳した後も、国歌は和歌と同義に使われていた言葉であったため、長らく漢詩に対するやまと言葉の国歌という意味の方が浸透した状態で、Nationalanthemの意味するところは、なかなか国民一般の理解するところとならなかった。