Translation guide
The English word "danger" refers to the possibility of harm, risk, or a hazardous situation. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 危険 (kiken), but other words and expressions are used depending on the nuance, such as threat, crisis, or peril. This guide covers the main ways to express "danger" in Japanese, from general warnings to formal and literary terms.
Expressing that something is dangerous, risky, or unsafe in a general sense.
The most common and versatile word for "danger." Can be used as a noun or na-adjective. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
This place is dangerous.
If you sense danger, please run away.
An i-adjective meaning "dangerous" or "risky." More colloquial than 危険 and often used in everyday warnings.
Watch out! A car is coming!
That bridge is dangerous, so don't cross it.
An i-adjective meaning "dangerous," "critical," or "close to danger." Often implies a precarious situation or a narrow escape. More literary or formal than 危ない.
I was saved at the last moment (lit. in a dangerous situation).
Referring to something that poses a danger, often with a nuance of threat or harm.
Means "threat" or "menace." Used for dangers that are intimidating or pose a serious risk, such as natural disasters, enemies, or abstract threats.
Terrorism is a threat to the world.
The new virus has become a threat.
A verb meaning "to threaten" or "to endanger." Often used when something jeopardizes safety, peace, or stability.
Describing a situation of imminent danger or a critical state.
Means "crisis" or "critical situation." Used for moments of acute danger, such as financial crises, life-threatening situations, or turning points.
He overcame the crisis.
The economic crisis is deepening.
Means "emergency" or "state of emergency." Used in official contexts for disasters, accidents, or other urgent dangers.
Expressing danger in a more formal, literary, or dramatic way.
A formal or literary term for "danger" or "peril." Often used in set phrases like 危殆に瀕する (to be on the verge of danger). Rare in everyday speech.
The nation is in peril.
Means "harm" or "injury," often used in legal or formal contexts to refer to danger that results in damage or injury.
危険 (kiken) is a noun/na-adjective and sounds more formal or objective. 危ない (abunai) is an i-adjective and is more colloquial, often used in spoken warnings. For example, a sign might say 危険 (Danger), but a person would shout 危ない！ (Watch out!).
English often uses 'danger' in verb phrases like 'to be in danger' or 'to endanger.' In Japanese, these are expressed with different constructions: 危険にさらされる (to be exposed to danger), 危険に陥る (to fall into danger), or 脅かす (to endanger). Avoid directly translating 'danger' as a verb.
The incident threatened national security.
The government declared a state of emergency.
There was no intention to cause harm.