Translation guide
The act of taking someone away illegally by force or deception. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 誘拐 (yuukai), but other words are used depending on the victim (child vs. adult), purpose (ransom, trafficking), and legal context.
The act of taking someone away against their will, typically by force or deception. This is the most common meaning.
The standard term for kidnapping or abduction. It can refer to both children and adults, and often implies taking someone away for ransom or other illegal purposes. Used in news and everyday conversation.
He was arrested on suspicion of abduction.
Kidnapping cases are increasing.
Often used for politically motivated abductions or forced disappearances, especially by state actors. It carries a stronger nuance of taking someone by force and detaining them. Commonly used in the context of North Korean abductions of Japanese citizens.
The issue of abductions by North Korea remains unresolved.
A more general and slightly softer term meaning 'taking someone away'. It can be used for abduction but also for less severe situations like a parent taking a child without consent. Often used in news reports.
The girl was taken away by someone.
Specifically refers to the abduction of a child, often by a stranger or non-custodial parent.
When one parent takes a child away from the other parent without legal permission, often across borders.
The standard phrase for parental child abduction. It literally means 'taking away of a child by a parent'. Used in news and legal discussions.
International parental child abduction has become a problem.
A more formal and stronger phrase using 拉致, implying a forceful taking. Used in serious legal or political contexts.
Taking someone to exploit them, such as for forced labor or sexual exploitation.
Literally 'kidnapping for the purpose of human trafficking'. This is the clearest way to express abduction for trafficking.
She was a victim of abduction for human trafficking.
Can be used in the context of trafficking, especially when force is involved. Often appears in news about forced disappearances linked to trafficking.
誘拐 (yuukai) is the general term for kidnapping, often for ransom. 拉致 (rachi) implies a more forceful, political, or state-sponsored abduction. 連れ去り (tsuresari) is a broader term for 'taking someone away' and can be used in less severe contexts, such as a non-custodial parent taking a child.
In kidnapping cases, a ransom is often demanded.
The families of abduction victims are demanding their early return.
After the divorce, the father took the child away.
誘拐 implies illegal taking. For legal arrest or detainment by authorities, use 逮捕 (taiho) or 拘束 (kousoku). Using 誘拐 in those contexts would be incorrect and confusing.
The police are investigating the abduction of a local businessman.
Child abduction by a parent is a serious crime.
He was indicted for abduction of a minor.
Abduction of a child over custody rights is a violation of the Hague Convention.
He was abducted and forced into labor.