Translation guide
A belief that an event or situation is the result of a secret, often sinister, plot by a group of people or organizations. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 陰謀論 (inbōron). This guide covers how to express the concept naturally, including related terms and usage notes.
To refer to a belief that a secret plot explains an event or situation.
The standard, neutral term for 'conspiracy theory'. Widely understood and used in media and everyday conversation.
彼は陰謀論を信じている。
He believes in conspiracy theories.
その陰謀論はすぐに広まった。
That conspiracy theory spread quickly.
Literally 'conspiracy theory' or 'conspiracy hypothesis'. Slightly more formal or academic than 陰謀論, often used in news or analytical contexts.
この事件には陰謀説がつきまとっている。
Conspiracy theories surround this incident.
A literal translation of 'conspiracy theory', but less common and can sound awkward. Use 陰謀論 instead.
This is a direct translation and may sound unnatural. Prefer 陰謀論.
それは陰謀の理論に過ぎない。
That's just a conspiracy theory.
To describe a person who believes in conspiracy theories.
A 'conspiracy theorist'. The standard term for a person who subscribes to conspiracy theories.
彼は熱心な陰謀論者だ。
He is an avid conspiracy theorist.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'a person who believes in conspiracy theories'. More roundabout but clear.
陰謀論を信じる人が増えている。
The number of people who believe in conspiracy theories is increasing.
To refer to the secret plan itself, rather than the theory about it.
Means 'conspiracy' or 'plot'. Used for the actual secret plan, not the theory. Often appears in compounds like 陰謀論.
彼らは政府転覆の陰謀を企てた。
They hatched a conspiracy to overthrow the government.
Both mean 'conspiracy theory', but 陰謀論 is more common in everyday language, while 陰謀説 is slightly more formal and often used in journalistic or academic contexts. 陰謀論 is the safer choice for most situations.
陰謀論はインターネットでよく見かける。
Conspiracy theories are often seen on the internet.
専門家はその陰謀説を否定した。
Experts denied that conspiracy theory.
The phrase 陰謀の理論 is a direct translation of 'conspiracy theory' but is rarely used and can sound unnatural. Stick to 陰謀論 or 陰謀説.
陰謀の理論を主張する人は少ない。
Few people advocate the conspiracy theory. (unnatural)
それはただの陰謀論だよ。
That's just a conspiracy theory.
彼はいつも陰謀論の話をしている。
He always talks about conspiracy theories.