Translation guide
The English word 'fornication' refers to sexual intercourse between unmarried persons. In Japanese, there is no single everyday equivalent; expression depends heavily on context, register, and nuance. This guide covers formal/legal terms, colloquial expressions, and indirect ways to convey the idea.
To refer to fornication in a formal, legal, or religious context, often with a negative or technical tone.
Formal term for adultery or illicit sexual intercourse, often used in legal or religious contexts. Can cover fornication but is broader.
the sin of fornication/adultery
Primarily means adultery (extramarital affair), but sometimes used loosely for any immoral sexual relationship. Not a direct match for fornication.
Usually implies at least one married person; not ideal for unmarried-only contexts.
an adulterous relationship
Literal 'extramarital sexual intercourse'; a clinical/legal term. Can be used for fornication if neither party is married.
Extramarital sexual intercourse is prohibited by law.
To talk about fornication in everyday conversation without sounding overly formal or judgmental.
Japanese does not have a common word specifically for 'fornication'. Instead, use a general term like セックス or 性交 and add context about being unmarried.
sex with someone you're not married to
sexual intercourse with an unmarried partner
Casual sex, often implying no commitment. Can overlap with fornication but is more about the casual nature.
Casual sex is dangerous.
To express the idea of fornication as a sin or moral failing, often in a religious context.
Lewd/immoral conduct; a common way to refer to sexual immorality including fornication in religious or moral discourse.
Avoid fornication/lewd conduct.
Immorality, misconduct; often used in Christian contexts for sexual sin including fornication.
As above, the standard biblical term for sexual immorality, often translated as fornication.
There is no everyday Japanese word that exactly matches 'fornication'. Using a direct translation like 姦淫 in casual speech will sound archaic or overly religious. Instead, describe the situation using general terms for sex plus context about marital status.
Japanese often uses the same terms for fornication and adultery (e.g., 姦淫, 不倫). If the distinction is important, clarify whether the people involved are married or not.
Literally 'premarital sexual relations'. A somewhat formal but common term when discussing sex before marriage.
Premarital sex has become commonplace.
Repent of fornication/immorality.
姦淫してはならない。
You shall not commit fornication/adultery.