Translation guide
The Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945) is a historical term. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as 日中戦争, but other terms exist depending on context and political perspective.
The most common and neutral way to refer to the war in Japanese historical contexts.
Standard term used in textbooks, media, and academic writing. Literally 'Japan-China War'.
The Second Sino-Japanese War began in 1937.
Used when emphasizing the Chinese perspective or in contexts related to Chinese history.
Literally 'War of Resistance Against Japan'. Common in Chinese contexts, but also understood in Japan.
The War of Resistance Against Japan involved great sacrifices for China.
When discussing the war as part of the larger conflict including the Pacific War.
Term encompassing both the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Pacific War. Used in some academic and political contexts.
The Asia-Pacific War ended in 1945.
Historical term used during and shortly after the war, now often avoided due to political implications.
Literally 'China Incident'. Used by Japan during the war to downplay the conflict. Now considered politically incorrect and rarely used except in historical documents.
Avoid using this term in modern conversation; it is offensive to many Chinese people and reflects a colonial-era mindset.
The Japanese government at the time called it the China Incident.
Do not translate 'Second Sino-Japanese War' literally as 第二次中日戦争. This is not a standard term and sounds unnatural.
In most everyday conversations, 日中戦争 is sufficient. Use 抗日戦争 only when specifically discussing the Chinese resistance, and アジア太平洋戦争 when including the Pacific theater.