Translation guide
The English verb 'haunt' has two main meanings: (1) for ghosts or spirits to appear repeatedly in a place, and (2) for memories, thoughts, or feelings to persistently trouble someone. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both senses.
To describe a ghost or spirit appearing repeatedly in a specific location.
A common, natural way to say a ghost 'appears' or 'haunts' a place. Literally 'comes out at'.
この屋敷には幽霊が出るらしい。
This mansion is said to be haunted.
To express that a memory, thought, or feeling repeatedly comes to mind and causes distress.
Literally 'won't leave one's head'. The most natural way to say a thought or memory 'haunts' you.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'haunt'. Using 出る for ghosts and 頭から離れない for thoughts is much more natural than trying to force a direct equivalent.
幽霊が出る
It's haunted (by a ghost)
記憶が頭から離れない
The memory haunts me
Ghosts often haunt that ruin.
Means 'to possess' or 'haunt' a person or place, implying a spirit attaches itself. Often used for malevolent spirits.
悪霊がこの家に取り憑いている。
An evil spirit is haunting this house.
A more formal or written expression meaning 'ghosts appear and disappear' at a place. Literally 'ghosts infest'.
そのトンネルには幽霊が出没すると言われている。
That tunnel is said to be haunted by ghosts.
The memory of the accident haunts me.
彼の言葉がずっと頭から離れない。
His words keep haunting me.
Means 'to be troubled/plagued by'. Used for persistent worries, memories, or feelings.
罪悪感に悩まされている。
I am haunted by guilt.
過去の失敗に悩まされる。
I am haunted by past failures.
Literally 'to follow around persistently'. Used for thoughts, feelings, or even a sense of being watched.
不安がいつもつきまとう。
Anxiety always haunts me.
死の影が彼につきまとっていた。
The shadow of death haunted him.
Similar to 頭から離れない but more literary/emotional. 'Won't leave one's heart'.
彼女の面影が心を離れない。
Her image haunts me.