Translation guide
A minor accident or unfortunate incident. In Japanese, the most common way to express this is ちょっとした事故 (a small accident) or トラブル (trouble). The choice depends on the nuance: whether it's a physical accident, a problem during an activity, or a mistake.
mishap (minor accident)
mishap (trouble)
A small accident causing minor damage or injury, like tripping or spilling something.
Literally 'a small accident'. This is the most direct and neutral way to say 'mishap' when referring to a physical accident.
There was a minor mishap in the kitchen.
A loanword from English 'trouble'. Commonly used for minor problems or mishaps, especially in daily life or travel.
From English 'accident'. Often used for unexpected mishaps, but can sound slightly more serious than .
A mishap that occurs while doing something, like a technical glitch or a mistake in a process.
The most common word for any kind of trouble or mishap during an activity. Very versatile.
A mishap occurred during the event.
A mistake or mix-up, often due to human error. Suitable for mishaps caused by miscommunication or oversight.
A blunder or mishandling, often implying incompetence. Used when someone is at fault. Formal.
A mishap that is more about bad luck or an unfortunate turn of events, often with a lighthearted tone.
From English 'happening'. Used for unexpected, often amusing mishaps. Common in casual conversation.
There was a little mishap, but it was fun.
Misfortune or calamity, but can be used lightly for minor mishaps. Often used in the phrase とんだ災難 (what a mishap).
事故 (accident) is more serious and often implies injury or damage. トラブル (trouble) is broader and can refer to any problem. ハプニング (happening) is casual and often implies an unexpected, sometimes funny event. For a minor mishap, ちょっとした事故 or 小さなトラブル are safe choices.
旅行中に小さなトラブルがあった。
I had a small mishap during the trip.
I was late due to a minor mishap.
手違いで書類が届かなかった。
Due to a mishap, the documents didn't arrive.
私の不手際でご迷惑をおかけしました。
I apologize for the mishap caused by my mistake.
雨に降られてとんだ災難だった。
Getting caught in the rain was quite a mishap.