Translation guide
Refers to neighborhoods historically associated with the burakumin, a marginalized group in Japan. The term is sensitive and rarely used directly in modern conversation.
burakumin area
This is the most direct term but can be considered discriminatory; use with extreme caution.
When discussing the historical or sociological concept of burakumin neighborhoods in an academic or factual context.
Literally 'discriminated-against hamlet'. This is the standard term in academic and historical writing, but it carries a heavy stigma and should be used carefully.
I am researching the history of burakumin areas.
Short for 被差別部落. In certain contexts, it can refer to burakumin communities, but the word itself simply means 'hamlet' or 'village'. Its meaning depends heavily on context, and using it to refer to burakumin areas can be offensive.
Avoid using this word to refer to burakumin areas unless you are certain the context makes it clear and appropriate. In many regions, it is a taboo word.
Buraku discrimination is a problem that still remains.
Literally 'assimilation district'. A euphemism used in administrative contexts, especially during the post-war Dōwa assimilation projects. It is less direct but still understood as referring to burakumin areas.
Educational support projects were carried out in the Dōwa districts.
When you need to refer to such an area without using stigmatized terms, often in sensitive conversations or media.
Literally 'a certain area'. This is a common way to indirectly refer to a burakumin area without naming it, often used when the specific location is known from context.
He is said to be from a certain area (implying a burakumin area).
Literally 'that kind of area'. Another indirect reference, often used when the topic is already understood.
When you need to mention a particular burakumin area by name, often in historical or geographical contexts.
If you must specify a location, you can use the place name followed by の被差別部落, but this is very direct and should only be used in appropriate academic or historical discussions.
The Sūjin district, one of the burakumin areas in Kyoto.
Terms related to burakumin areas are highly sensitive in Japan. Open discussion can be taboo, and using words like 部落 or 被差別部落 may cause offense or be seen as discriminatory. In many contexts, it is better to avoid direct reference altogether.
It's better not to touch on that topic.
In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers often use vague expressions like あの辺り (around there) or そういう地域 (that kind of area) to refer to burakumin areas without naming them. This avoids direct mention while still being understood.
Prejudice against that kind of area is deep-rooted.