Translation guide
The English verb "incur" means to become subject to something unpleasant as a result of one's own actions. In Japanese, this is expressed through various verbs and patterns depending on what is incurred (debt, loss, anger, risk, etc.).
To express that someone has taken on a financial burden, such as debt or a loss, often as a consequence of their actions.
A common verb meaning 'to bear' or 'to incur' something negative like debt, responsibility, or loss. Often used in the form 負うことになる.
He incurred a large amount of debt from that business.
Means 'to suffer' or 'to sustain' damage or loss. More formal and often used in written contexts.
The company incurred a huge loss.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'to take on debt'. Less formal than 負う.
He incurred a large debt due to the failure of his business.
To express that someone has caused another person to become angry or displeased with them.
Literally 'to buy anger', this is the most natural way to say 'incur someone's anger'.
His rude attitude incurred the boss's anger.
Means 'to incur hostility/antagonism'. Used when someone's actions cause others to dislike them.
A more formal or literary expression meaning 'to incur displeasure'.
To express that someone has exposed themselves to risk or danger through their actions.
To express that someone has to pay for something, often as a consequence of a decision.
To express that someone has become subject to a penalty or punishment due to their actions.
There is no single Japanese verb that covers all uses of 'incur'. Translating it directly as 被る (こうむる) in every context will sound unnatural. Choose the expression based on what is being incurred.
負う (おう) is used for taking on burdens like debt or responsibility, often with a sense of ongoing obligation. 被る (こうむる) is used for suffering damage or loss, often as a one-time event. 負う is more common in everyday speech.
That remark incurred the hostility of many people.
He incurred the king's displeasure and was banished.
He incurred the risk of death to save the child.