Translation guide
The English word 'crisis' can refer to a dangerous or difficult situation, a turning point, or a critical phase. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 危機 (kiki), but other words and expressions are used depending on the context, such as economic crises, personal emergencies, or decisive moments.
A time of intense difficulty, danger, or trouble, often on a large scale.
The most direct and common translation for 'crisis', used for serious situations in politics, economy, environment, etc.
The world is facing a serious environmental crisis.
The country fell into an economic crisis.
Refers to a state of emergency or extraordinary situation, often used in official contexts.
The government declared a state of emergency.
Emphasizes urgency, similar to 'emergency situation'. Often used in disaster or medical contexts.
The hospital is prepared for an emergency situation.
A difficult situation or predicament, often used in political or business contexts.
The prime minister is trying to overcome the crisis.
A time when an important decision must be made, or a critical phase in a process.
Literally 'fork in the road', used for a decisive moment or turning point.
Now is the turning point between success and failure.
A critical moment where one's true ability is tested; a make-or-break situation.
A brink or verge, often used for a critical juncture where the outcome hangs in the balance.
Also used for a turning point, especially in the sense of a critical phase in an illness or process.
A time of intense personal difficulty, emotional turmoil, or identity crisis.
Literally 'life crisis', used for midlife crises or major personal upheavals.
He is going through a life crisis.
Psychological or mental crisis.
Loanword for 'identity crisis', used in psychological contexts.
Young people often experience an identity crisis.
In English, 'crisis' can be used hyperbolically for minor problems (e.g., 'I'm having a hair crisis!'). In Japanese, 危機 (kiki) sounds very serious and is not used lightly. For minor troubles, use 困ったこと (komatta koto) or ピンチ (pinchi).
危機 (kiki) is a formal, serious crisis. ピンチ (pinchi) is a casual loanword from English 'pinch', often used in sports or everyday difficulties (e.g., 'ピンチを切り抜ける' - to get out of a tight spot). Use ピンチ for less severe, personal predicaments.
The company is in crisis.
We need to manage this crisis carefully.
This is the critical moment. Let's do our best.
彼は生死の瀬戸際に立たされた。
He was brought to the brink of life and death.
The illness has passed the crisis.
She is in a mental crisis.