Translation guide
The English word "dependents" refers to people who rely on someone else for financial support, typically family members like children or elderly parents. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the expression depends on context, such as tax forms, family descriptions, or legal documents.
dependents (family)
Most common term for tax/insurance contexts
To refer to people (usually family) who are financially supported by someone, such as on tax forms or in general conversation.
The standard term for 'dependent family members' in contexts like tax deductions, health insurance, or official documents. It literally means 'supported family'.
How many dependents do you have?
Apply for a dependent deduction.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'family members one is supporting'. Used when explaining or clarifying, rather than as a fixed term.
He has many dependents.
A formal, technical term used in legal or insurance contexts, meaning 'person being supported'. Often seen on health insurance cards.
Register as a dependent.
To refer specifically to children who are financially dependent on their parents.
The general word for 'child' or 'children'. In context, it implies dependency when discussing support. Often used with counters or possessive phrases.
I can't work because my children are still small.
Explicitly states 'children to support', used in formal or explanatory contexts.
To refer to elderly parents or other relatives who are financially dependent.
To refer to a spouse who is financially dependent, often for tax or insurance purposes.
Means 'supported spouse'. Often used in tax discussions. The term 配偶者 means spouse.
My wife is a dependent spouse.
A formal, technical term for 'dependent spouse', used in legal or insurance documents.
To ask or state how many dependents one has, common on tax or administrative forms.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'dependents'. The word 扶養家族 is the closest, but it specifically means 'supported family members'. In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often just say 家族 (family) or specify the relationship (子供, 親, etc.) rather than using a term for 'dependent'.
I support my family.
扶養家族 is the everyday term for dependent family members. 被扶養者 is more technical and often appears on official documents like health insurance cards. In most situations, 扶養家族 is sufficient.
I have two dependent children.
The deduction amount changes depending on the number of dependent children.
The burden of supporting elderly parents is increasing.
Enroll in insurance as a dependent spouse.
How many dependents do you have?