Translation guide
The English word "misconduct" covers a range of improper behaviors, from minor rule-breaking to serious ethical violations. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the context: whether it's professional, legal, moral, or everyday. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese expressions by the type of misconduct.
To refer to misconduct in a workplace, organization, or official capacity, such as corruption, abuse of power, or violation of professional standards.
The most direct and common translation for misconduct in professional, corporate, or official contexts. It covers fraud, embezzlement, cheating, and other dishonest acts.
He was fired for misconduct.
The company launched an investigation into misconduct.
Specifically refers to illegal acts or unlawful conduct. Use when the misconduct involves breaking the law.
The police officer was accused of misconduct.
Abuse of authority or power. Used for misconduct where someone exceeds their official powers.
The mayor's misconduct became an issue.
Scandal or disgraceful incident, often used in corporate or political contexts for misconduct that damages reputation.
Corporate misconduct cases are occurring one after another.
To describe behavior that is morally wrong or unethical, such as dishonesty, betrayal, or indecency.
Delinquency or misconduct, often used for juveniles or moral transgressions. Can also apply to adults in a broader sense of wrongdoing.
Juvenile misconduct is increasing.
His misconduct is unforgivable.
Immorality or unethical behavior. A more formal term for moral misconduct.
To refer specifically to inappropriate sexual behavior, harassment, or assault.
To describe cheating, plagiarism, or fabrication in academic settings.
Research misconduct, including fabrication, falsification, and plagiarism.
The professor was accused of research misconduct.
General term for dishonesty or cheating, often used in academic contexts for exam cheating or plagiarism.
Plagiarism. Specifically using others' work without credit.
To describe rule violations, unsportsmanlike conduct, or foul play in sports.
Foul or rule violation in sports. The most common term for misconduct during a game.
He was sent off for misconduct.
Unsportsmanlike conduct. A formal phrase for misconduct that violates the spirit of fair play.
To refer to misconduct in a broad, non-specific sense, such as bad behavior or misdeeds.
Evil deed or wrongdoing. A general term for misconduct, often with a moral judgment.
He committed misconduct.
Misconduct or scandalous behavior, often implying a lapse in moral conduct.
Mismanagement or misconduct due to negligence. Often used when someone fails to handle a situation properly.
不正行為 (ふせいこうい) is the most versatile term for professional or official misconduct, while 非行 (ひこう) leans toward moral delinquency, especially by young people. Use 不正行為 for corporate fraud, cheating, or corruption; use 非行 for juvenile delinquency or personal moral failings.
The English word "misconduct" is often used as a broad label, but Japanese requires more specific terms depending on the context. Simply translating it as ミスコンダクト is not natural. Always choose the term that matches the type of misconduct.
The act was condemned as misconduct.
Breach of trust or betrayal. Used for misconduct that violates a fiduciary or personal trust.
That constitutes misconduct.
上司のセクハラで訴えた。
She sued for sexual misconduct by her boss.
Indecent act or obscene behavior. Often used in legal contexts for sexual misconduct involving physical acts.
He was arrested for sexual misconduct.
Misconduct during exams is severely punished.
論文の盗用が発覚した。
Plagiarism in the thesis was discovered.
The act was considered misconduct.
彼の不行跡が明るみに出た。
His misconduct came to light.
彼は不始末の責任を取って辞任した。
He resigned taking responsibility for his misconduct.