Translation guide
The English word "attack" covers a wide range of meanings, from physical violence to verbal criticism, sports tactics, and even medical episodes. This guide organizes the most common uses for learners and provides natural Japanese equivalents for each.
To physically harm someone or something, often violently.
The most common verb for a sudden physical attack, often by a person or animal. Can also be used for natural disasters or sleep.
A man attacked a woman on the street at night.
A bear attacked the campsite.
A more formal or military term for an attack. Used for planned assaults, military operations, or in sports contexts.
The enemy attacked the base.
Specifically refers to physical assault or battery, often used in legal contexts.
He was arrested on suspicion of assault.
To strongly criticize someone or something in speech or writing.
General term for blaming or criticizing someone, often publicly.
The newspaper attacked the government's response.
Can also be used metaphorically for verbal attacks, similar to English.
He attacked my opinion fiercely.
Loanword from English 'bashing', used for harsh public criticism, especially in media.
The actor was attacked on social media.
To try to score points or goals against an opponent in sports.
A sudden occurrence of a medical condition, such as a heart attack or asthma attack.
General term for a sudden attack of illness, such as a heart attack (心臓発作) or asthma attack (喘息発作).
He collapsed from a heart attack.
I had an asthma attack.
Loanword used in some medical terms like 'panic attack' (パニックアタック), but less common than 発作.
An attempt to damage or disrupt computer systems or networks.
To begin dealing with a task or problem with great energy.
Means to tackle or grapple with a problem or task. Not a direct translation of 'attack', but conveys the same energetic approach.
He attacked the problem vigorously.
Means to set about or start a task, often used in formal contexts.
We attacked the new project.
While 攻撃する can be used for physical, verbal, and sports attacks, it sounds unnatural for medical episodes or starting a task. Use the specific terms provided.
襲う implies a sudden, often violent attack, frequently by surprise. 攻撃する is more about a planned, strategic attack. For a mugging, use 襲う; for a military strike, use 攻撃する.
パニックアタックの症状が出た。
I had symptoms of a panic attack.
サイトがハッキングされた。
The site was attacked by hackers.