Translation guide
The English word 'impotence' can refer to a lack of power or effectiveness, or specifically to erectile dysfunction. This guide covers both meanings, with a focus on natural Japanese expressions.
Expressing that someone or something is powerless, ineffective, or unable to act.
General term for powerlessness, helplessness, or inability. Can be used for individuals, groups, or abstract concepts.
Referring to the medical condition of being unable to achieve or maintain an erection.
Using 無力 in a sexual context would be confusing. Always clarify whether you mean powerlessness or erectile dysfunction.
In medical settings, 勃起不全 or ED are standard. インポテンツ is understood but may sound old-fashioned or blunt.
He keenly felt his own impotence.
The government's impotence became clear.
Emphasizes incompetence or lack of ability, often with a negative connotation. More about lacking skill than lacking power.
Can be insulting; use carefully.
He is an impotent leader.
Idiomatic phrase meaning completely helpless or unable to do anything against a superior force or situation.
The opponent was so strong I was completely impotent.
Literally 'lack of power', often used in formal or written contexts. Can imply physical weakness or lack of influence.
To be ashamed of one's impotence.
There are several treatments for impotence.
Common abbreviation for erectile dysfunction, used in medical and everyday contexts.
I got a prescription for impotence medication.
Loanword from German 'Impotenz', commonly used in Japanese to mean impotence in the sexual sense. Slightly dated or colloquial.
He is suffering from impotence.
Literally 'inability', can be used in compounds like 性交不能 (sexual impotence). Often seen in older or formal texts.
He was diagnosed with impotence.