Translation guide
The English word "libel" refers to a false and defamatory written statement. In Japanese, there is no single exact equivalent; instead, various terms cover defamation, slander, and legal concepts. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on context.
To refer to the act of damaging someone's reputation through false statements, without strict legal distinction between written and spoken.
The most common and general term for defamation, covering both libel and slander. Used in legal and everyday contexts.
He was sued for defamation.
Refers to slander or defamatory remarks, often used for online or verbal attacks. Implies malicious intent.
Online defamation has become a problem.
A shorter term for slander or defamation, often used in compounds. Less formal than 名誉毀損.
That's just slander.
To specifically refer to libel as a written or published false statement, often in legal settings.
To refer to spoken defamation, as opposed to written libel. Useful for contrast.
To express the action of making a libelous statement.
名誉毀損 (meiyokison) is the formal legal term for defamation, covering both libel and slander. 誹謗中傷 (hibōchūshō) is more colloquial and often used for malicious online comments or verbal attacks. In everyday conversation, 誹謗中傷 is common, but in legal contexts, 名誉毀損 is preferred.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'libel' in all contexts. Using 名誉毀損 is generally safe, but be aware that it covers both written and spoken defamation. If you need to specify written form, use 文書による名誉毀損.
The article was full of libel.
He sued the newspaper for libel.
He was indicted for libel.
Slander is difficult to prove.
She slandered her colleague.
He said things that slandered me.