Translation guide
The condition of being dependent on drugs, including both physical and psychological aspects. Japanese has several terms that distinguish between medical, legal, and colloquial contexts.
He is receiving treatment for drug addiction.
Literally 'drug poisoning', often used for addiction with a focus on the toxic effects. Can imply a more severe or acute condition.
He was hospitalized for drug addiction.
Specifically addiction to narcotics or illegal drugs. Often used in legal or news contexts.
The number of drug addicts is increasing.
To talk about drug addiction in casual conversation.
To specify addiction to a particular drug.
Attach 依存 to the drug name to form 'addiction to X'. Common for alcohol, nicotine, etc.
alcohol addiction
nicotine addiction
Similar to 依存 but emphasizes poisoning or acute effects. Often used for substances like alcohol or drugs.
stimulant addiction
To refer to a person who is addicted to drugs.
依存 (izon) focuses on psychological and physical dependence, while 中毒 (chūdoku) emphasizes the toxic or poisoning aspect. In medical contexts, 依存 is preferred for addiction as a disease. 中毒 is often used for acute poisoning or in legal contexts.
Drug addiction is a disease.
Died from drug poisoning.
Direct translations like 'ドラッグ中毒' are understood but sound unnatural. Use established terms like 薬物依存 or 麻薬中毒 instead.
drug addiction (natural)
He struggles with drug addiction.
Drug addiction is a serious problem.
He's a total junkie.
麻薬中毒者
drug addict (narcotics)