Translation guide
The English word 'accident' covers unintentional events, traffic collisions, and unexpected happenings. In Japanese, different words are used depending on the type of accident and context.
car accident
It was an accident.
When explaining you didn't mean to do something.
Referring to a collision involving vehicles, bicycles, or pedestrians.
General word for accident, most commonly used for traffic accidents.
There was a traffic accident yesterday.
The train is delayed due to an accident.
Specifically a traffic accident. More precise than 事故 alone.
Please be careful not to get into a traffic accident.
Collision accident, used in formal or news contexts.
A collision accident occurred on the expressway.
An event that happens by chance, without intention, often with negative consequences.
Also used for non-traffic accidents, like industrial or home accidents.
An accident occurred at the factory.
It was an accident. (I didn't mean to do it.)
Negligence or fault; used in legal or formal contexts to indicate an accident caused by carelessness.
The accident happened due to his negligence.
A chance occurrence; emphasizes the accidental nature rather than the negative outcome.
That meeting was a complete accident.
Something that happens unexpectedly, often with a positive or neutral outcome.
The loanword アクシデント (akushidento) is used for minor mishaps or unexpected troubles, not for serious traffic accidents or disasters. For those, use 事故.
I was late due to a small mishap.
事故 (jiko) is an accident (unintentional), while 事件 (jiken) is an incident or case, often implying a crime or intentional act. Be careful not to confuse them.
The police are treating it as a criminal case, not an accident.
I had a car accident.
He was killed in a traffic accident.
I met her by accident.