Translation guide
The English word "affairs" covers a wide range of meanings, from personal business and events to romantic relationships and professional matters. This guide breaks down the most useful meanings for learners and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
Referring to one's own tasks, errands, or personal business.
General term for personal business or errands. Very common and natural.
I have some affairs to attend to, so I'll be leaving first.
I have to take care of some affairs today.
Personal or private affairs, often used in formal contexts.
I apologize for bringing up personal affairs, but I'm getting married next month.
Business or personal affairs, somewhat formal. Often used when excusing oneself.
I'm leaving early today due to personal affairs.
Referring to happenings, incidents, or state of affairs in the world or a specific domain.
State of affairs, situation, especially in politics, economics, or social contexts.
International affairs are unstable.
Circumstances, reasons, or affairs behind a situation. Often used to explain why something happened.
Situation or state of affairs, often implying a serious or problematic development.
Event, incident, happening. More concrete than 'affairs' but can be used for notable occurrences.
Referring to a secret romantic or sexual relationship, often extramarital.
Extramarital affair, adultery. The most direct and common term.
He was having an affair.
They divorced because of an affair.
Cheating, infidelity. Can be used for affairs, but also for less serious flings. Slightly more casual than 不倫.
Referring to business, administrative, or governmental matters.
Business affairs, duties, operations. Standard term in professional contexts.
We aim to streamline business affairs.
He is well-versed in business affairs.
Office work, administrative affairs. Often used for clerical tasks.
Government affairs, political duties. Used in political contexts.
Referring to diplomatic or international matters.
English often uses 'affairs' in phrases like 'get your affairs in order.' In Japanese, it's more natural to specify the type of business, e.g., 身辺整理 (personal effects) or 手続き (procedures), rather than using a generic 'affairs' word.
不倫 specifically refers to an extramarital affair involving married people. 浮気 is broader and can mean cheating in any romantic relationship, including dating. 不倫 carries a stronger social stigma.
He is having an affair with his secretary.
I have some affairs to settle before I leave.
The state of world affairs is concerning.
Economic affairs are worsening.
I quit my job due to family affairs.
I was late due to some affairs (circumstances).
This is a serious affair (situation).
最近の出来事について話し合った。
We discussed recent affairs (events).
I can't forgive my boyfriend's affair (cheating).
Mistress/lover relationship. More explicit about the ongoing nature.
He had been carrying on an affair for years.
Administrative affairs take time.
The minister is busy with government affairs.
He works at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.