Translation guide
A woman who commits adultery. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through nouns, verbs, and descriptive phrases, with varying levels of formality and directness.
The most direct and common way to refer to an adulteress in Japanese.
Literally 'adultery partner', this is the most common and neutral term for a woman involved in an extramarital affair. It can refer to either gender, but context usually clarifies.
His mistress was a colleague from work.
A formal and somewhat archaic term for an adulteress. Often used in legal or literary contexts.
The adulteress was banished from the village.
Refers to a cheating partner, often in a less serious or more casual affair. Can imply a one-time fling rather than a long-term relationship.
She felt anger toward her husband's mistress.
Means 'lover' or 'mistress'. It implies a long-term extramarital relationship, often with financial support. Can be used for either gender, but context usually clarifies.
He has a mistress of many years.
Using verbs and phrases to describe the act of a woman committing adultery.
The most common way to say 'commit adultery'. It is gender-neutral and can be used for anyone.
She is having an affair with a married man.
Means 'to cheat' or 'to have an affair'. It is more casual and can refer to any kind of infidelity, not necessarily a serious long-term affair.
A formal and legal term for committing adultery. Rarely used in everyday conversation.
While 'adulteress' is a specific English word, Japanese often uses gender-neutral terms like 不倫相手 (adultery partner) or descriptive phrases. Using a direct equivalent like 姦婦 can sound archaic or overly formal.
不倫 (furin) implies a serious, often long-term extramarital affair, while 浮気 (uwaki) can refer to any kind of cheating, including one-night stands or emotional affairs. 不倫 carries a stronger sense of social taboo.
She was cheating on her husband behind his back.
She was accused of adultery.