Translation guide
The English verb "embezzle" refers to the act of dishonestly taking money or property entrusted to one's care, typically in a professional or organizational setting. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific legal terms, common verbs for misappropriation, and descriptive phrases. The choice depends on formality, context, and the nature of the act.
The core meaning: illegally taking money or assets that one was responsible for managing, often in a business or public office context.
He embezzled company funds.
He was arrested on suspicion of embezzlement.
Literally 'to pocket' money. Implies secretly taking funds for personal use, often in a business setting. Slightly less formal than 横領 but still common.
The accounting clerk was embezzling the sales proceeds.
Means 'to misappropriate' or 'to embezzle' by gradually using funds for oneself. Often implies a series of small thefts over time.
He embezzled union funds.
A colloquial and somewhat old-fashioned expression meaning to pocket something dishonestly, especially money or a found item. Not a legal term; used in casual speech.
This is not a direct equivalent for corporate embezzlement; it's more about petty theft or keeping something you found. Use with care.
He pocketed the wallet he found. (Note: This is closer to 'keeping found money' than corporate embezzlement.)
Embezzlement involving physical assets or property, not just money.
A softer or indirect way of saying embezzle, often used in internal investigations or when the act is not yet legally proven.
Means 'to divert for personal use'. Commonly used in corporate scandals to describe unauthorized use of company money without necessarily using the criminal term.
It came to light that the department manager had been diverting expenses for personal use.
Means 'to misappropriate' or 'to use fraudulently'. Broader than embezzlement, but often used in similar contexts.
横領 (ōryō) is the formal, legal term for embezzlement and is used in criminal charges. 着服 (chakufuku) implies secretly pocketing money, often with a nuance of stealth. 使い込み (tsukaikomi) suggests gradually using entrusted funds for personal expenses, often over time. In many contexts, 横領 is the safest and most direct translation.
He was indicted for embezzlement.
She pocketed money from the register.
He had been embezzling company money bit by bit.
Do not attempt to translate 'embezzle' word-for-word. Phrases like 不正に取る (fusei ni toru) are not natural. Use the established terms above depending on context.
The act of embezzling public funds is a serious crime.
He misappropriated the subsidy.