Translation guide
The state of being actively opposed or hostile to someone or something. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various nouns and adjectives that convey hostility, ill will, or deep-seated antagonism.
Expressing a general feeling of active opposition or hatred toward someone or something.
The most direct and common translation for 'enmity' or 'hostility'. It refers to a feeling of active opposition or hatred.
彼は私に対して敵意を抱いている。
He harbors enmity toward me.
その発言には敵意が感じられた。
I sensed enmity in that remark.
Literally 'antagonistic heart', this emphasizes a mindset of opposition or rivalry.
両者の間には強い敵対心がある。
There is strong enmity between the two.
Means 'malice' or 'ill will'. It can be used when the enmity involves a desire to harm.
彼の言葉には悪意が込められていた。
His words were filled with enmity.
Means 'antipathy' or 'hostile feeling'. Often used for a strong dislike or resentment.
彼は私に反感を持っているようだ。
He seems to have enmity toward me.
Describing enmity that has existed for a long time, often between groups or families.
Refers to a grudge or deep-seated enmity, often from past events. Common in historical or dramatic contexts.
両家の間には長年の遺恨がある。
There is long-standing enmity between the two families.
Means 'discord' or 'feud'. Often used for persistent enmity between individuals or factions.
A literary term for a long-held grudge or ancient enmity. Rare in everyday speech.
宿怨を晴らす。
To avenge an old enmity.
Referring to enmity in the context of active conflict or warfare.
Means 'hostility' or 'antagonism', often used in political or military contexts.
両国は敵対関係にある。
The two countries are in a state of enmity.
Literally 'state of warfare'. Used when enmity has escalated to armed conflict.
両国は交戦状態にある。
The two countries are in a state of enmity (at war).
敵意 (てきい) is general hostility or enmity, while 悪意 (あくい) specifically implies malice or intent to harm. Use 敵意 for opposition, and 悪意 when there is a desire to cause damage.
In casual conversation, directly saying 敵意を抱いている may sound overly dramatic. Often, simpler phrases like 嫌っている (きらっている, 'dislikes') or 仲が悪い (なかがわるい, 'on bad terms') are more natural.
二人の間には確執がある。
There is enmity between the two.