Translation guide
The term 'adult child' can refer to an adult offspring (a son or daughter who is grown up) or, in a psychological context, to an adult who grew up in a dysfunctional family (e.g., 'adult child of an alcoholic'). This guide focuses on the common meaning of a grown son or daughter.
Referring to one's own or someone else's son or daughter who is now an adult.
A straightforward and neutral way to say 'adult child', literally 'child who has reached adulthood'. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
私の成人した子供は二人とも独立しています。
Both of my adult children are independent.
Literally 'adult child'. Slightly more casual than 成人した子供, but still widely understood. Can be used in everyday conversation.
大人の子供がいるのに、まだ子育ての心配をしている。
Even though I have adult children, I still worry about parenting.
In Japanese, it's often more natural to specify the relationship and imply adulthood through context, such as mentioning their age or life stage, rather than using a direct translation of 'adult child'.
うちの息子はもう30歳です。
My son is already 30 years old. (implying he is an adult child)
娘は社会人になりました。
My daughter has become a working adult.
A more formal or literary expression, often used in written contexts or official documents. Less common in daily speech.
成人の子を持つ親のためのセミナー
A seminar for parents with adult children
While 大人の子供 is grammatically correct, it can sound slightly awkward or overly literal in casual conversation. Japanese speakers often prefer to use 息子 (son) or 娘 (daughter) with additional context about their age or independence.
息子はもう大人なので、自分のことは自分でします。
My son is an adult now, so he takes care of himself.