Translation guide
The English word "cripple" can be a verb meaning to disable or severely impair, or a noun referring to a person with a physical disability. The noun is now considered offensive in English, and Japanese equivalents vary in politeness and context. This guide covers both verb and noun uses, with emphasis on natural Japanese expressions and important cultural notes.
Expressing the action of causing someone to become physically disabled, often through injury.
Literal and formal way to say 'to cause a physical disability'. Used in legal or medical contexts.
The accident crippled him.
Specifically for impairing legs or walking ability. More common in everyday speech.
Means 'to damage' or 'impair'. Can be used for body parts or functions.
Describing how something is made ineffective or unable to operate normally.
Literally 'paralyze the function'. Common for systems, networks, or organizations.
Referring to a person who has a physical disability. Note: The English word is now considered a slur. Japanese equivalents range from highly offensive to neutral/formal.
He was called a cripple. · The charity helps cripples.
Instead of a direct equivalent, describe the condition respectfully. E.g., 'person with a physical disability' or 'wheelchair user'.
The English noun 'cripple' is now widely considered a slur. In Japanese, the closest direct equivalents (かたわ, 不具者) are also highly offensive. Always use respectful, person-first language such as 身体障害者 (physically disabled person) or describe the specific condition.
He has a leg disability. (natural, respectful)
麻痺させる emphasizes paralysis or stoppage of function, often used for systems, traffic, or nerves. 大打撃を与える emphasizes a heavy blow or severe damage, often used for economic or reputational harm. Choose based on whether the focus is on loss of function or the severity of impact.
The illness crippled his legs.
その怪我が彼の歩行能力を損なった。
The injury crippled his ability to walk.
The hacking crippled the system.
Transitive verb meaning 'to paralyze'. Used for both literal and figurative crippling.
The strike crippled transportation.
Means 'to deal a heavy blow'. Emphasizes the severe impact.
The scandal crippled the company.
Means 'to destroy' or 'annihilate'. Stronger than 'cripple', implies near-total destruction.
The earthquake crippled the town.
He is a person with a physical disability.
a person who uses a wheelchair
Standard formal term for 'physically disabled person'. Neutral in official contexts but can feel clinical.
facilities for the physically disabled
Highly offensive slur equivalent to 'cripple'. Avoid entirely. Included only for recognition.
This word is extremely derogatory and should never be used.
He was called a cripple.
Archaic/offensive term for a disabled person. Not used in modern polite speech.
Outdated and offensive. Do not use.
Please do not use the word 'cripple'.