Translation guide
The English word "damages" refers specifically to money claimed or awarded as compensation for loss or injury in a legal context. This guide helps learners express this concept naturally in Japanese, covering legal terms, common phrases, and practical usage.
To refer to money claimed or awarded by a court as compensation for harm, loss, or injury.
To express the action of seeking or demanding compensation.
To refer to damages awarded to punish the defendant, beyond simple compensation.
The direct translation of 'punitive damages'. Used in legal discussions, though such damages are not common in Japan.
The English word 'damage' (uncountable, meaning harm or injury) is usually translated as 損害 (そんがい). 'Damages' (plural, legal compensation) is 損害賠償 or 賠償金. Using 損害 alone for 'damages' can be ambiguous.
The typhoon caused great damage.
The standard legal term for 'damages' or 'compensation for damages'. Used in formal and legal contexts.
He claimed damages.
The court ordered the payment of damages.
Refers specifically to the monetary amount paid as compensation. Often used in news or formal settings.
The victim received damages.
A more explicit term combining 'damages' and 'money'. Used in legal documents.
The amount of damages has not been decided yet.
Specifically 'solatium' or 'consolation money' for emotional distress, often in personal injury cases. Not for property damage.
She filed a lawsuit seeking damages for emotional distress.
The company claimed damages from the former employee.
A slightly less formal way to say 'seek compensation'. Can be used in general contexts.
The victim's family is seeking damages.
In the U.S., punitive damages are sometimes awarded.
彼は損害賠償として100万円を受け取った。
He received 1 million yen in damages.
In casual contexts, Japanese speakers might simply use お金 (おかね, money) or 補償 (ほしょう, compensation) instead of the formal legal terms. However, in legal or official settings, stick to 損害賠償.
What happened with the compensation for the accident?