Translation guide
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental condition. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to by the clinical term 注意欠如・多動症 or the abbreviation ADHD. This guide covers how to talk about the condition, its symptoms, and related everyday expressions.
Referring to the medical diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Official Japanese medical term for ADHD. Used in formal and clinical contexts.
He was diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
Commonly used abbreviation, especially in casual or educational settings. Pronounced with English letters.
Symptoms of ADHD include inattention and hyperactivity.
Older term, now largely replaced by 注意欠如・多動症. Still seen in some older literature.
Talking about behaviors or characteristics associated with ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, or impulsivity, without necessarily using the clinical diagnosis.
Literally 'has a lot of inattention.' A natural way to describe someone who is often careless or easily distracted.
He is very inattentive and often forgets things.
Describes someone who is restless or fidgety, a common trait of hyperactivity.
Means 'impulsive.' Used to describe acting without thinking, a key ADHD symptom.
Literally 'concentration doesn't last.' A common way to describe difficulty sustaining attention.
Placing ADHD within the broader category of developmental disorders.
Means 'a type of developmental disorder.' Often used when explaining ADHD in educational or awareness contexts.
ADHD is a type of developmental disorder.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often use the English abbreviation 'ADHD' (pronounced エーディーエイチディー). The full clinical term 注意欠如・多動症 is more common in medical or formal writing.
The term 注意欠陥・多動性障害 is outdated and may be considered less appropriate. Use 注意欠如・多動症 or ADHD instead.
My son has ADHD.
She shows signs of inattention and hyperactivity.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a type of developmental disorder.
That child is restless and can't sit still during class.
He is impulsive and immediately says whatever comes to mind.
I can't stay focused, so work takes a long time.