Translation guide
The English word "hearing" can refer to the sense of hearing, a legal proceeding, or the act of listening to someone's story. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
The physical ability to perceive sound.
The standard term for the sense of hearing, used in medical, scientific, and everyday contexts.
A session in a court or official body where evidence is presented.
Giving someone a chance to speak or be heard, often in a sympathetic context.
The most natural way to say "hear someone out" or "listen to someone's story."
彼の言い分を聞いてあげてください。
Please give him a hearing (listen to his side of the story).
In English, "give someone a hearing" can be expressed simply as 話を聞く (はなしをきく). Using 聴覚 (ちょうかく) or 審問 (しんもん) would be unnatural when referring to listening to a person's story.
彼は聴覚に障害がある。
He has a hearing impairment.
Refers specifically to hearing ability or acuity, often used in medical tests.
聴力検査を受けました。
I had a hearing test.
A public hearing, often held by government committees or agencies to gather opinions.
環境問題についての公聴会が開かれた。
A public hearing on environmental issues was held.
A formal hearing or inquiry, often in a legal or disciplinary context.
裁判所は審問を行った。
The court conducted a hearing.
An administrative hearing, such as for license revocation or regulatory matters.
免許取消の聴聞が行われた。
A hearing for license revocation was held.
Literally "to incline one's ear," meaning to listen attentively or sympathetically.
彼女は私の悩みに耳を傾けてくれた。
She gave a hearing to my troubles.