Translation guide
The process of becoming less sensitive or reactive to something, whether physically, emotionally, or psychologically. This guide covers how to express this concept in Japanese across different contexts.
Becoming less emotionally reactive to a stimulus through repeated exposure, often in therapeutic or media contexts.
The standard psychological term for desensitization, used in therapy (e.g., systematic desensitization).
Systematic desensitization is used to treat phobias.
Literally 'getting used to', this is a common way to express becoming desensitized in everyday language.
I've become desensitized to violent images.
Means 'senses become numb/paralyzed', often used for emotional numbing or desensitization to shocking content.
Watching tragic incidents on the news every day makes you desensitized.
Means 'to become insensitive/thick-skinned', can imply a negative desensitization to others' feelings.
He became desensitized to criticism.
Reducing physical sensitivity, such as in allergy treatments or nerve responses.
Medical term for desensitization therapy, especially for allergies (allergen immunotherapy).
I'm receiving desensitization therapy for cedar pollen allergy.
Means 'to build tolerance', used for both physiological and pharmacological contexts.
Literally 'senses become dull', used for physical desensitization like reduced sensitivity to pain or touch.
Becoming less sensitive to social issues, violence, or norms due to overexposure.
脱感作 (datsukansa) is the general psychological term, while 減感作 (genkansa) is specifically medical, often for allergy treatments. In everyday conversation, phrases like 慣れ (nare) or 感覚が麻痺する (kankaku ga mahi suru) are more natural.
The English word 'desensitization' is often translated directly as 脱感作, but this sounds technical. In casual contexts, use simpler expressions like 慣れ or 麻痺.
Long-term use of medication can lead to desensitization and reduced effectiveness.
My fingers became desensitized from the cold.
I've become desensitized to the noise of the city.