Translation guide
The English word "asylum" has two main meanings: protection granted by a country to a foreigner, and a historical institution for the mentally ill. These are expressed with completely different Japanese terms.
Refers to the protection granted by a nation to someone who has fled their own country, or the act of seeking such protection.
The most common term for political asylum or seeking refuge in another country. Often used in the phrase 亡命する (to seek asylum).
He fled political persecution and sought asylum in the United States.
A formal term for protection or shelter, often used in legal contexts. 庇護を求める means "to seek asylum."
He sought asylum in Japan.
Literally "to apply for refugee status." This is the practical process of seeking asylum. Often used in news reports.
He applied for asylum at the immigration bureau.
A loanword from German "Asyl," used in academic or historical contexts to refer to the concept of sanctuary or asylum. Rare in everyday speech.
Medieval churches served as places of asylum.
Refers to a hospital for the mentally ill, especially in historical contexts. Modern usage often carries a negative or outdated connotation.
The standard term for a psychiatric hospital. While it can be used neutrally, it may sound blunt or stigmatizing in some contexts. For a more modern, softer term, see 精神科病院 or メンタルクリニック.
He was hospitalized in a psychiatric hospital for severe depression.
Refers specifically to a psychiatric ward within a general hospital.
An archaic and now offensive term for an insane asylum. Used only in historical contexts.
The English word "asylum" in the sense of a psychiatric hospital does not have a direct, neutral equivalent in Japanese. Using アサイラム (asairamu) would not be understood. Always use 精神病院 or a similar term depending on context.
亡命 (bōmei) refers to the act of seeking asylum or the status of being in exile, often with a political connotation. 難民申請 (nanmin shinsei) is the formal procedure of applying for refugee status, which may lead to asylum. In many contexts, they overlap, but 亡命 is more about the political act, while 難民申請 is the legal process.
A slightly more clinical and less stigmatizing term than 精神病院. Often used in official contexts.
There is a large psychiatric hospital in this area.
She is receiving treatment in the psychiatric ward.
In that novel, the protagonist is confined in an insane asylum.