Translation guide
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to by the English-derived term ＡＤＨＤ (エーディーエイチディー) or the formal medical term 注意欠如・多動症. When discussing traits or symptoms, descriptive phrases are often used.
Referring to the medical diagnosis or condition itself.
The most common and widely understood term, used in both medical and everyday contexts. Often written in Latin alphabet or katakana.
He was diagnosed with ADHD.
The formal Japanese medical term. Used in official documents, medical settings, or when a precise term is needed.
Symptoms of ADHD include inattention and impulsivity.
An older term that is now less preferred due to the negative connotation of 障害 (disorder). Still encountered in some older texts.
It used to be called attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Talking about characteristics like inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity without necessarily using the diagnosis label.
Describes someone who is often inattentive or makes careless mistakes. A natural way to describe a common ADHD trait.
He is often inattentive, so he frequently loses things.
Literally 'lacking calmness', used to describe restlessness or hyperactivity. Common in everyday conversation.
Means 'impulsive'. Used as an adjective to describe behavior or a person.
Means 'easily distracted'. A common way to describe difficulty maintaining focus.
When someone identifies as having ADHD or describes themselves in relation to it.
A common way to say 'I have ADHD'. Using ある (to have) is natural for conditions.
I have ADHD.
A casual, somewhat slangy way to say 'ADHDer' or 'person with ADHD'. Used in informal contexts.
Let's talk about things that people with ADHD can relate to.
Means 'a type of developmental disorder'. Sometimes used when explaining ADHD in a broader context.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often use the English abbreviation ＡＤＨＤ (pronounced エーディーエイチディー) rather than the full Japanese medical term. When describing symptoms, it's more natural to use descriptive phrases like 不注意が多い or 落ち着きがない rather than directly saying 'I am ADHD'.
Do not translate 'ADHD' word-for-word into Japanese. The older term 注意欠陥・多動性障害 is now considered stigmatizing by some, and the current formal term is 注意欠如・多動症. In most everyday situations, ＡＤＨＤ is perfectly acceptable.
That child is restless and can't sit still.
It's hard to control impulsive behavior.
I get distracted easily and can't concentrate on studying.
ADHD is a type of developmental disorder.