Translation guide
The English word "beat-up" can mean physically worn or damaged, or it can refer to the act of beating someone up. This guide covers both meanings, with a focus on natural Japanese expressions.
Describing an object that is old, worn, or in poor condition from use.
A common onomatopoeic word meaning tattered, worn-out, or falling apart. Used for clothes, books, furniture, etc.
Physically attacking someone, usually with fists, causing injury.
The English phrase 'beat-up' as an adjective does not have a direct single-word equivalent in Japanese. Use descriptive words like ボロボロ or 使い古した instead of trying to translate 'beat' and 'up' separately.
彼はボロボロのジャケットを着ていた。
He was wearing a beat-up jacket.
Literally 'used until old', meaning worn from long use. Often for tools or everyday items.
I traveled with a beat-up suitcase.
Means tired or worn-out, can describe both people and objects. For objects, it implies shabbiness from age.
I sat on a beat-up sofa.
Means damaged or spoiled, often for food, but can be used for objects that are physically damaged.
I repaired a beat-up book.
To beat someone up and knock them down. A strong, common expression.
He beat up his opponent.
Onomatopoeic phrase meaning to beat someone up badly, leaving them bruised and battered.
They beat him up.
Formal term for assault or physical violence. Used in legal or news contexts.
He was arrested on suspicion of beating someone up.
To gang up on someone and beat them. Literally 'make into a bag-beating', implying a group attack.
He was beat up by the bullies.