Translation guide
The state of being free from guilt, sin, or moral wrong; also naivety or lack of experience. Japanese expressions vary by context: legal innocence, moral purity, or childlike naivety.
Expressing that someone is not guilty of a crime or wrongdoing.
The standard term for legal innocence, meaning 'not guilty'. Used in court verdicts and formal contexts.
He pleaded not guilty.
The court acknowledged his innocence.
Emphasizes moral purity and freedom from suspicion, often used when proving one's innocence against accusations.
He proved his innocence.
Refers to a false charge or wrongful conviction. Used when someone is innocent but found guilty.
He was imprisoned on a false charge.
Describing a state of being free from moral corruption or sin, often in a spiritual or ethical sense.
Conveys pure-heartedness and sincerity, often associated with children or untainted character.
I was moved by her innocent heart.
Literally 'stainless', implies purity and innocence, often used for children or in religious contexts.
Referring to a lack of knowledge or experience, often implying simplicity or gullibility.
Innocence in the sense of being free from guile or cunning, often childlike and trusting.
I laughed at his innocent question.
Means 'pure' and can imply innocence in the sense of being untainted by bad influences, but also naivety.
Literally 'ignorant of the world', used for someone naive or inexperienced in the ways of society.
When an action or remark is not meant to cause harm or offense.
無罪 is strictly legal, meaning 'not guilty' in court. 潔白 emphasizes moral purity and freedom from blame, often used in personal vindication.
He received a verdict of not guilty.
I am innocent (of any wrongdoing).
The loanword イノセント is used in some contexts (e.g., fashion, art) but sounds unnatural for everyday situations. Use the appropriate Japanese term based on context.
She maintained her innocence throughout the trial.
Children lose their innocence as they grow up.
I love the innocent smiles of children.
Describes someone who is artless and naive, full of natural innocence. Often used for children or pure-hearted adults.
She has an innocent and carefree personality.
彼は純粋すぎて、人を疑うことを知らない。
He is so innocent that he doesn't know how to doubt people.
She is so innocent that she is easily deceived.