Translation guide
The English phrase "heavy damage" refers to severe harm or destruction. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various nouns and verbs that convey the extent and seriousness of the damage. The most common and versatile term is 大きな被害, but other expressions are used depending on context, such as physical destruction, financial loss, or personal injury.
Expressing that something has suffered a lot of damage, in a broad sense (e.g., from disasters, accidents, or attacks).
The typhoon caused heavy damage.
After the earthquake, many buildings suffered heavy damage.
A more formal and emphatic expression, often used in news reports or official statements. 甚大 means 'enormous' or 'immense'.
The flood caused heavy damage.
Literally 'big damage/loss'. 損害 often implies financial or material loss. Used in contexts like business, insurance, or war.
They suffered heavy damage in the war.
Uses the loanword ダメージ (damage) with 深刻な (serious). Common in gaming, sports, or metaphorical contexts, but can also be used for physical damage.
The car suffered heavy damage in the accident.
Emphasizing that something is broken, shattered, or ruined physically.
損傷 means 'damage' or 'injury' to objects or body parts. 激しい means 'violent' or 'severe'. Used for physical damage like in accidents or battles.
The car had heavy damage to the front.
Means 'seriously damaged' or 'wrecked', often used for vehicles, ships, or buildings. Implies destruction beyond repair.
An onomatopoeic expression meaning 'to become battered' or 'worn out'. Conveys heavy damage in a colloquial, vivid way.
I dropped my smartphone and it got heavily damaged.
Referring to heavy physical harm to a person's body.
Expressing severe damage in terms of money, business, or reputation.
Similar to 大きな被害 but specifically for financial or material loss. 損害 is the key word for 'loss/damage' in economic contexts.
The scandal caused heavy damage to the company.
Means 'heavy blow' or 'severe impact'. Often used metaphorically for damage to reputation, morale, or finances.
艦船は敵の攻撃で大破した。
The warship was heavily damaged by enemy attack.
転んで大怪我をした。
I fell and got badly hurt.
The recent scandal dealt a heavy blow to the administration.