Translation guide
The concept of adultery in Japanese is expressed through several terms that differ in nuance, formality, and context. The most common and neutral term is 不倫, but legal, literary, and colloquial alternatives exist.
To refer to a consensual sexual relationship between a married person and someone other than their spouse, often implying an ongoing affair.
The most common and neutral term for adultery or an extramarital affair. It is widely used in everyday conversation, news, and media. It implies a romantic/sexual relationship outside marriage.
He is having an affair.
They divorced because of adultery.
Often translated as 'cheating' or 'infidelity'. It can refer to a one-time fling or a less serious affair, and is used for both married and unmarried couples. More casual than 不倫.
I can't forgive my boyfriend's cheating.
A formal, legal, or literary term for adultery. Historically used in criminal law (now abolished). Rare in daily conversation.
The crime of adultery was abolished.
To discuss adultery in a legal, religious, or moral context, often as a violation of marital vows.
A formal term for adultery or marital infidelity, often used in legal contexts (e.g., divorce proceedings). It emphasizes the breach of fidelity.
Adultery became the grounds for divorce.
A very formal or religious term for adultery or fornication. Often found in biblical or moral discussions. Not used in everyday speech.
To refer to adultery in the context of a public scandal, often involving celebrities or public figures.
A common phrase meaning 'adultery scandal' or 'affair scandal'. Used in news and gossip.
The actor's image was damaged by the adultery scandal.
不倫 specifically refers to an extramarital affair (both parties are married, or at least one is). 浮気 is broader and can mean cheating in any romantic relationship, including dating. 浮気 can also imply a less serious, more casual fling.
Furin is a relationship between married people.
Uwaki is also used between boyfriend and girlfriend.
聖書は姦淫を禁じている。
The Bible forbids adultery.