Translation guide
The English verb 'kidnap' refers to taking someone away illegally by force, often for ransom or other criminal purposes. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 誘拐する (yuukai suru), but there are nuanced alternatives depending on the context, such as abduction of a minor, kidnapping for ransom, or hijacking. This guide covers the main expressions and their appropriate usage.
To take someone away illegally by force or deception, typically against their will.
The criminal kidnapped a child.
She was kidnapped and a ransom was demanded.
Often used for abduction by force, especially in political or international contexts, such as North Korea's abductions of Japanese citizens. It implies a more forceful or coercive taking than 誘拐.
The abduction issue by North Korea remains unresolved.
Literally 'to take away', this verb can be used for kidnapping but is more general. It often appears in news reports and can describe taking someone away against their will, including by a parent in custody disputes.
The man took the girl away in a car.
To kidnap someone specifically to demand money or other concessions for their release.
This phrase explicitly means 'kidnapping for ransom'. It is used in legal and news contexts to distinguish ransom kidnappings from other types.
A kidnapping for ransom case occurred.
The general term 誘拐する can also be used when ransom is involved, especially if the context makes it clear.
To take a child away illegally, often by a non-custodial parent or stranger.
To seize control of a vehicle, especially an aircraft, and force it to go to a different destination.
The loanword for 'hijack', used for aircraft, ships, or other vehicles. It specifically means taking control by force.
Terrorists hijacked the airplane.
Means 'to take over' or 'hijack' a vehicle, account, or system. It can be used for hijacking but is broader.
誘拐 (yuukai) is the general term for kidnapping and can involve deception or force. 拉致 (rachi) implies a more forceful, coercive abduction, often used in political or international contexts. In everyday crime reporting, 誘拐 is more common.
While 誘拐する is the standard translation, English speakers sometimes mistakenly use キッドナップする, which is not natural Japanese. Stick to the established terms.
They kidnapped the company president and demanded 100 million yen.
Cases of children being kidnapped are increasing.
The criminal hijacked the bus.