Translation guide
Indignation is a strong feeling of anger or annoyance caused by something that is perceived as unfair, unjust, or wrong. In Japanese, expressing this emotion often depends on the context, relationship, and level of formality. Direct translations exist, but natural expression may involve describing the situation or using idiomatic phrases.
Expressing anger at an unfair situation, often with a sense of righteous anger.
A noun meaning strong resentment or indignation, often used in formal or written contexts. It conveys a deep, simmering anger at an injustice.
I felt strong indignation at his dishonest actions.
General word for anger. When used in contexts of injustice, it can imply indignation, but it lacks the specific nuance of righteous anger. Often modified with adjectives like 正当な (justifiable) to clarify.
People felt justifiable indignation at the verdict.
A common phrase meaning 'to get angry' or 'to be offended'. It can express indignation in casual speech, especially when something is personally unfair.
I was really indignant at the way he said it.
Literally 'righteous indignation'. A formal term used in writing or speeches to describe anger at a moral wrong. Strongly implies a sense of justice.
His actions aroused the righteous indignation of many people.
Expressing irritation or anger when one feels personally wronged or treated unfairly.
Slangy expression for feeling disgusted, irritated, or pissed off. Often used when someone's behavior is unfair or infuriating.
His attitude really pisses me off. (indignation at unfair treatment)
Means 'I can't accept this' or 'This doesn't sit right with me'. Expresses indignation through the feeling that something is unreasonable or unjust.
Literally 'unforgivable'. Used when someone's actions are so unfair or wrong that you feel strong indignation and cannot forgive them.
Conveying indignation without directly stating anger, often through rhetorical questions or describing the situation.
Using phrases like ひどい (terrible) or 信じられない (unbelievable) with 〜なんて to express indignation indirectly. This is very natural in Japanese.
Isn't that a terrible way to speak? (implying indignation)
I can't believe he would do such a thing. (indignation)
Instead of naming the emotion, describe why the situation is unfair. This is often more effective and natural in Japanese.
That is just too unfair. (expressing indignation)
While 憤り (いきどおり) is a direct translation, it can sound overly formal or literary in everyday conversation. In casual settings, use phrases like 腹が立つ or むかつく, or describe the situation as unfair.
憤り specifically implies a moral or righteous anger at injustice, while 怒り is general anger. Use 憤り when you want to emphasize the unjust nature of the cause.
She expressed her indignation at the decision.
Formal/written context
I was filled with indignation when I heard the news.
Formal expression of indignation
His arrogant attitude really made me indignant.
Casual, spoken
I just can't accept that explanation. (feeling indignant)
I absolutely cannot forgive his betrayal. (indignation)