Translation guide
A person who steals goods, typically during a chaotic event such as a war, riot, or natural disaster. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 略奪者, but other terms exist depending on context.
After the earthquake, looters attacked the shops.
Emphasizes taking by force; often used for robbery or violent theft.
The looter stole the cash and fled.
General word for 'thief' or 'burglar'. Can be used for looters in casual contexts, but lacks the nuance of mass chaos.
During the blackout, looters broke into the store.
Specifically refers to someone taking advantage of riots or protests to steal.
Refers to soldiers or civilians who plunder during wartime.
Used figuratively for someone who takes advantage of a chaotic situation for personal gain, not necessarily physical theft.
Means 'person who takes advantage of confusion'. Broader than physical looting.
He profited by taking advantage of the chaos, like a looter.
Proverb meaning 'fisherman's profit', i.e., benefiting from others' conflict. Not a direct translation but captures opportunistic looting.
While 略奪者 is correct, it sounds formal and is mostly used in news. In everyday conversation, Japanese speakers might describe the action (e.g., 盗む) rather than label the person, or use 泥棒 for simplicity.
略奪者 specifically implies looting during chaos (war, disaster). 泥棒 is a general thief. Use 略奪者 when the context of mass disorder is important.
Idiomatic term for someone who loots during a fire or disaster; literally 'fire-scene thief'. Often used metaphorically for opportunists.
Looters stole things from the victims' homes during the fire.
While the rival companies fought, a third company acted like a looter and profited.