Translation guide
The term for 'civil war' in Japanese is most commonly 内戦 (naisen) or 内乱 (nairan). The choice depends on context, with 内戦 being the standard modern term and 内乱 often used in historical or legal contexts.
内戦
civil war
To refer to a war between groups within the same country.
The most common and neutral term for 'civil war' in modern Japanese. Used for both domestic and foreign civil wars.
シリア内戦は多くの犠牲者を出した。
The Syrian civil war caused many casualties.
内戦が終わって平和が戻った。
The civil war ended and peace returned.
Often used in historical or legal contexts. Can imply internal disorder or rebellion, not necessarily a full-scale war.
この国は何度も内乱を経験してきた。
This country has experienced civil wars many times.
Refers to internal strife or conflict, often within an organization or political party, not necessarily armed conflict. Can be translated as 'civil war' in some contexts but is less common.
党内の内紛が激化している。
Internal strife within the party is intensifying.
To refer to specific historical civil wars in Japan.
The standard term for historical civil wars in Japan, such as the Jinshin War or the Ōnin War.
壬申の乱は古代日本の内乱だ。
The Jinshin War was an ancient Japanese civil war.
Refers to a period of war and turmoil, often used for the Sengoku period. Not a direct translation of 'civil war' but can describe the era of internal conflicts.
内戦 (naisen) is the general modern term for civil war. 内乱 (nairan) is often used for historical or legal contexts and can imply rebellion or insurrection rather than full-scale war. For most contemporary references, 内戦 is preferred.
戦国時代は戦乱の時代だった。
The Sengoku period was an era of civil war.