Translation guide
The English word "devil" can refer to a supernatural evil being, a wicked person, or be used figuratively. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 悪魔 (akuma), but other terms exist depending on context, such as 鬼 (oni) for ogre-like demons or 魔王 (maou) for a demon king. This guide covers the main ways to express these concepts naturally.
Referring to the Devil in Christian contexts, or a generic evil spirit/demon.
The standard word for 'devil' or 'demon' in a Western/Christian sense. Can refer to Satan or any evil spirit.
He sold his soul to the devil.
I gave in to the devil's whisper.
Literally 'demon king' or 'dark lord'. Used for a ruler of demons, like Satan or a fantasy villain.
A hero who defeats the demon king.
Traditional Japanese ogre/demon, often depicted with horns and a club. Not exactly the Christian devil, but used in folklore and metaphorically for a cruel person.
A cave where an oni is said to appear.
Direct loanword for 'Satan'. Used in explicitly Christian contexts.
Satan is a fallen angel.
Calling someone a devil figuratively, meaning they are evil, heartless, or ruthless.
Commonly used to describe a heartless or strict person. '鬼のような人' (oni no you na hito) means 'a devil of a person'.
That boss is a devil.
He got angry with a devilish look.
Can also be used metaphorically for a wicked person, but less common than 鬼 for everyday harshness.
Literally 'not human', meaning a brute or monster. Stronger than 'devil' in some contexts.
Using 'devil' in set phrases or idioms.
Direct translation of 'devil's advocate'. Commonly understood.
Playing devil's advocate, that plan is risky.
Literally 'devil's whisper', used for temptation or a seductive but bad idea.
That's the devil's whisper (temptation).
Proverb: 'giving an iron club to an oni', meaning making someone strong even stronger. Not directly 'devil', but uses the demon motif.
悪魔 (akuma) is the closest to the Western concept of a devil or demon, often associated with Satan and Christian imagery. 鬼 (oni) is a Japanese ogre-like creature, but is also used metaphorically for a cruel person. When calling someone a 'devil' for being mean, 鬼 is more natural. For religious or supernatural evil, use 悪魔.
Avoid directly translating 'devil' as デビル (debiru) in most contexts. While understood as a loanword (e.g., デビルマン), it is not the standard word for the concept and sounds like a proper noun or title.
He is a devil of a man.
Only a devil would do such a thing.
Giving him authority is like giving a devil a club.