Translation guide
The English word "hag" refers to an ugly, unpleasant, or malicious old woman. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you want to describe appearance, personality, or a supernatural being.
To insult or rudely describe an old woman as ugly, mean, or repulsive.
Literally 'demon hag'. A strong, insulting term for a cruel, ugly old woman. Common in fiction and strong insults.
To refer to a frightening, magical old woman in folklore or fantasy.
English 'hag' is a specific insult. In Japanese, simply calling someone an old woman (おばあさん) is not insulting. Use 鬼婆 or ババア only when you intend to be very rude. In most situations, it's better to describe the person's behavior or appearance rather than using a direct label.
鬼婆 emphasizes cruelty and ugliness, often with a supernatural nuance. ババア is a general derogatory term for any older woman, focusing on age and contempt. 鬼婆 is stronger and more specific.
That hag came to complain again.
A very rude and derogatory term for an old woman, similar to 'old hag' or 'old bat'. Used in casual, rough speech.
うるさいババアだな。
What a noisy hag.
Literally 'ugly old woman'. A descriptive phrase, not a fixed insult. Sounds more literary or explanatory.
物語には醜い老婆が登場する。
An ugly hag appears in the story.
A mountain hag or witch from Japanese folklore. Often depicted as a hideous old woman who lives in the mountains and eats humans.
山姥は旅人を襲うと言われている。
The mountain hag is said to attack travelers.
Also used for a demonic hag or witch-like figure in stories, not just as an insult.
その鬼婆は魔法で子供をさらった。
The hag used magic to kidnap children.
A bewitching or supernatural hag. Rare and literary, often used in fantasy contexts.
森の奥に妖婆が住んでいる。
A hag lives deep in the forest.