Translation guide
A misdeed is a bad or wrong act. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on the severity, context, and whether it's a moral failing, a crime, or a minor transgression.
A bad or immoral action, often used in moral or ethical contexts.
A general term for an evil or wicked deed. Suitable for serious moral wrongs.
He regrets his past misdeeds.
Often used for delinquency or misconduct, especially by young people.
Similar to 悪事 but can imply a pattern of bad behavior. Slightly more literary.
An illegal act, often used in legal or formal contexts.
The standard word for 'crime'. Use when the misdeed is a legal violation.
A small wrongdoing, often in everyday situations.
A religious or deeply moral wrongdoing.
Used for sin in a religious sense, or a morally reprehensible act.
悪事 is a moral wrong, while 犯罪 is a legal crime. A misdeed like lying is 悪事, but not necessarily 犯罪. Shoplifting is both.
Lying is a misdeed, but not a crime.
悪事 sounds quite serious. For a small mistake or error in judgment, use 過ち instead.
Juvenile misdeeds are increasing.
彼の悪行はついに明るみに出た。
His misdeeds finally came to light.
He admitted his misdeeds.
Can mean 'crime' or 'sin'. More emotional or moral weight than 犯罪.
He wants to atone for his misdeeds.
A mistake or error in judgment, often with a nuance of regret. Can be used for moral failings.
Everyone makes misdeeds sometimes.
Misconduct or negligence, often in a professional or formal setting. Implies failure to handle something properly.
He resigned, taking responsibility for his misdeed.
彼は自分の罪を神に告白した。
He confessed his misdeeds to God.
Buddhist term for sinful acts that produce bad karma. Very specific and religious.
Accumulating misdeeds affects your next life.