Translation guide
The English word "combat" refers to fighting between armed forces or individuals. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 戦闘 (sentō), but depending on context, other words like 戦い (tatakai) or 格闘 (kakutō) may be more natural. This guide covers the main ways to express "combat" in Japanese, from military contexts to hand-to-hand fighting.
Refers to organized fighting between military forces, often in a war or battle context.
The standard term for combat in a military context. It can be used for battles, engagements, or fighting in general.
The unit was caught up in fierce combat.
The combat continued all night.
A broader term for fight, battle, or struggle. It can be used for both literal and figurative combat, but in military contexts it often implies a larger-scale battle.
He lost his life in combat.
Refers specifically to engaging in hostilities or exchanging fire. More formal and often used in news reports or military documents.
The two armies entered into combat.
Refers to physical fighting without weapons or at close range, such as martial arts or brawling.
Used metaphorically for a determined effort against something, like combating disease or poverty.
The same word as 戦い but often written with this character for abstract struggles. It implies a fight against difficulties or social issues.
His life was a combat against poverty.
A common pattern meaning 'fight against ~'. Used for both literal and figurative combat.
Refers to regulated fighting as a sport, such as boxing, MMA, or fencing.
戦闘 (sentō) is specifically military combat. 戦い (tatakai) is a broader term for any fight or battle, including metaphorical ones. 格闘 (kakutō) is hand-to-hand combat, often unarmed. Choose based on the type of combat.
English often uses 'combat' as a verb (e.g., 'to combat climate change'). In Japanese, you usually need a different construction like ～と闘う (～とたたかう) or ～に対抗する (～にたいこうする). Do not try to use 戦闘 as a verb.
The soldiers prepared for close combat.
The samurai mastered the art of hand-to-hand combat.
They are continuing the combat against the infectious disease.
Tonight's match will be a fierce combat.