Translation guide
The English verb "extort" means to obtain something, usually money, through force, threats, or abuse of authority. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; instead, different words and phrases are used depending on the method, relationship, and context.
Obtaining money by threatening harm, exposure, or other negative consequences.
A general verb meaning 'to threaten' or 'to intimidate'. When used in the context of demanding money, it implies extortion. Often used with 金を (money) and 取る (take).
He threatened me and took my money.
The legal and formal term for 'extortion' or 'blackmail'. It specifically refers to obtaining money or property through threats. Commonly used in news and legal contexts.
He was arrested on suspicion of extortion.
A colloquial verb meaning 'to shake down' or 'to extort'. It implies a more direct, often physical, threat or intimidation to get money. Commonly used in crime-related contexts.
The yakuza are extorting protection money from the store.
Means 'to compel' or 'to force' someone to do something, including giving money. It emphasizes coercion rather than just threats. Often used in legal contexts.
He was forced to repay the debt.
Forcing someone to confess or reveal information through coercion or torture.
Literally 'to force a confession'. This is the standard phrase for extorting a confession, often used in legal or police contexts.
The police forced a confession out of the suspect.
Means 'to subject to torture'. It implies using physical pain to extract information or a confession. Stronger and more graphic than 強要する.
Using one's power or position to unfairly obtain money or favors.
Means 'to exploit' or 'to squeeze'. It refers to extorting money or labor by taking advantage of a superior position, such as an employer exploiting workers. Often used in social or economic contexts.
That company is exploiting its employees.
Literally 'to use one's position to squeeze money out of someone'. A descriptive phrase for extortion by someone in power.
Demanding money or favors by threatening to expose damaging information.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'extort'. Using a direct translation like エクストートする is not natural. Choose the appropriate word based on the method and context.
恐喝 (きょうかつ) specifically refers to extortion/blackmail for financial gain, while 脅迫 (きょうはく) is a broader term for threats/intimidation that may or may not involve monetary demands. In legal contexts, 恐喝 is the crime of extortion, while 脅迫 is the crime of intimidation.
The prisoner was tortured and forced to give up information.
He used his position to extort money from subcontractors.
Literally 'to take advantage of someone's weakness'. It describes the act of exploiting a vulnerability to extort something, often used in interpersonal contexts.
He took advantage of my weakness and extorted money from me.