Translation guide
The complete removal or destruction of something undesirable, such as a disease, pest, or problem. Japanese expressions vary depending on what is being eradicated and the context.
To express the complete elimination of something undesirable, like a disease, pest, or social problem.
The most common and versatile word for eradication, used for diseases, pests, drugs, crime, etc. Often used in official campaigns.
The eradication of polio will soon be achieved.
The government is putting effort into the eradication of drugs.
Literally 'root extinction', emphasizing complete removal from the root. Often used for diseases, weeds, or deeply rooted problems.
Smallpox is the only human infectious disease that has been eradicated.
Used for extermination of pests, vermin, or weeds. Implies removal by human action, often physical or chemical.
I hired a professional for cockroach eradication.
Means 'sweeping clean' or 'wiping out'. Used for clearing out undesirable elements, often in a decisive action.
We need to eradicate corruption.
To express the elimination of social issues or abstract concepts.
Also used for abstract problems like poverty or discrimination, especially in formal contexts.
The eradication of poverty is a goal of the international community.
Can be used for deeply rooted social issues, emphasizing complete elimination.
Means 'resolution' or 'elimination' of problems, often used for stress, queues, or imbalances. Softer than eradication.
To express complete removal in a medical or scientific context.
撲滅 is the broadest term for eradication, often used in campaigns. 根絶 emphasizes complete removal from the root, often for diseases or deeply rooted problems. 駆除 is for pests and vermin, implying extermination by human action.
For erasing writing, data, or traces, use 消去 (しょうきょ) or 削除 (さくじょ). Eradication in English can sometimes mean 'erasing', but the Japanese words above are for eliminating undesirable things, not digital or physical marks.
差別の根絶を目指して活動している。
We are working towards the eradication of discrimination.
交通渋滞の解消が急務だ。
The eradication of traffic congestion is an urgent task.
ウイルスの根絶は難しい。
Eradication of the virus is difficult.