Translation guide
The English word 'battered' can describe physical damage, cooking, or emotional/psychological states. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
Describing objects, vehicles, or structures that are dented, scratched, or in poor condition from repeated impact or heavy use.
An onomatopoeic word meaning tattered, worn-out, or falling apart. Commonly used for objects, clothes, or even people looking exhausted.
彼の車はボロボロだ。
His car is battered.
ボロボロのスーツケースを持っている。
He has a battered suitcase.
Literally 'covered in scratches/damage'. Emphasizes visible surface damage like dents and scrapes.
傷だらけのヘルメットを見つけた。
I found a battered helmet.
Means 'worn from long use'. Suitable for items that are old and show signs of wear, like tools or books.
使い古したフライパンで料理する。
I cook with a battered frying pan.
Referring to food that has been dipped in batter and deep-fried.
Standard phrase meaning 'coated in batter and deep-fried'. Used for tempura, fried fish, etc.
衣をつけて揚げた魚が好きです。
I like battered fish.
Loanword from English 'fry', often used for breaded and fried foods, but can also refer to battered items in context (e.g., エビフライ).
エビフライを注文した。
I ordered battered shrimp.
Describing a person who has been subjected to repeated hardship, criticism, or stress, leaving them feeling exhausted or defeated.
Means 'completely exhausted', often emotionally or mentally. Conveys being worn down by circumstances.
彼女は長い闘病生活で疲れ果てていた。
She was battered by her long illness.
Literally 'beaten down', used for emotional devastation or being crushed by events.
彼はその知らせに打ちのめされた。
He was battered by the news.
Also used for people to mean emotionally or physically worn out, looking haggard.
Describing a person who has been physically assaulted or abused over time.
Direct phrase meaning 'subjected to violence'. Often used in contexts of domestic abuse.
彼女は夫から暴力を受けていた。
She was battered by her husband.
Means 'abused', covering physical, emotional, or neglect. Stronger connotation of ongoing mistreatment.
虐待された子供を保護する。
Protect battered children.
Do not directly translate 'battered' as '叩かれた' (physically hit) when referring to emotional exhaustion. Use words like 疲れ果てた or 打ちのめされた instead.
ボロボロ implies overall shabbiness or falling apart, while 傷だらけ focuses on surface scratches and dents. For a battered car, both can work, but ボロボロ suggests it's barely functional.
彼は離婚してボロボロになった。
He was battered after the divorce.