Translation guide
The English word "molestation" refers to unwanted sexual touching or abuse, often of a child. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the appropriate term depends on the context, such as legal terminology, everyday speech, or specific acts like groping on trains.
To refer to the act of sexually abusing a child, often in a legal or serious context.
This is the standard term for sexual abuse, including molestation of children. It is used in legal, medical, and news contexts.
彼は子供への性的虐待で逮捕された。
He was arrested for child molestation.
Specifically refers to sexual abuse of children (児童). Common in formal or legal settings.
児童性的虐待は深刻な社会問題だ。
Child molestation is a serious social problem.
This word means 'mischief' or 'prank', but can euphemistically refer to molestation, especially in news reports. It is vague and often used to downplay the act. Use with caution.
This term can trivialize the act. It is often used in media but may not convey the severity of molestation.
少女にいたずらをした男が捕まった。
A man who molested a girl was caught.
To refer to groping, especially on crowded trains or in public places.
Refers to a person who gropes others, typically on trains. The act itself is often called 痴漢行為 (ちかんこうい). This is the most common term for public molestation.
電車で痴漢にあった。
I was groped on the train.
痴漢は犯罪です。
Groping is a crime.
The act of groping or molestation in public. More formal than 痴漢 alone.
痴漢行為を目撃したら通報してください。
If you witness molestation, please report it.
To refer to any unwanted sexual touching or advances, not necessarily of a child or in public.
Sexual harassment, which can include unwanted touching. Often used in workplace or school contexts.
上司からの性的嫌がらせに耐えられなかった。
I couldn't stand the molestation from my boss.
Abbreviation of sexual harassment. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all meanings of 'molestation'. Using a direct translation like モレステーション is not natural. Choose the term based on the specific act and context.
痴漢 (chikan) specifically refers to groping in public, especially on trains. 性的虐待 (seiteki gyakutai) refers to sexual abuse, often of children, and is a more serious, legal term. Do not confuse them.
Indecent act; a broader legal term that includes groping and other forms of sexual misconduct.
彼は公共の場でのわいせつ行為で罰金を科された。
He was fined for molestation in a public place.
セクハラで訴えられた。
He was sued for molestation.