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.
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.
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.
彼は悪魔のような男だ。
He is a devil of a man.
Only a devil would do such a thing.
Proverb: 'giving an iron club to an oni', meaning making someone strong even stronger. Not directly 'devil', but uses the demon motif.
Giving him authority is like giving a devil a club.