Translation guide
Expresses that a rule, law, right, or principle has been broken or infringed upon. Japanese uses different verbs depending on what is violated and the context.
To say that a law, rule, or regulation has been broken.
General term for violating laws, rules, or regulations. Often used in formal contexts.
He violated traffic regulations.
Used for violating laws or committing crimes. Often implies a more serious offense.
If you violate the law, you will be punished.
Common verb for breaking rules, promises, or records. Less formal than 違反する.
He violated the school rules.
To say that someone's rights, privacy, or personal space has been infringed upon.
To say that something sacred, holy, or deeply respected has been desecrated or violated.
To say that a contract, agreement, or treaty has been breached.
違反する is the most neutral and formal for rules/laws. 犯す implies a crime or serious offense. 破る is casual and used for breaking promises, rules, or records.
English passive 'be violated' often becomes active or passive depending on context. For example, 'My rights were violated' is 権利を侵害された (passive), but 'He violated the law' is 法律に違反した (active). Avoid direct passive translations unless the agent is unknown or unimportant.
基本的人権を侵してはならない。
Fundamental human rights must not be violated.
An act that violates the sanctuary.
They unilaterally violated the agreement.