Translation guide
The English word 'murderer' refers to a person who intentionally kills another person. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 人殺し (hitogoroshi), but there are several other terms that vary by context, formality, and nuance. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on the situation.
To refer to someone who has committed murder in a general, everyday sense.
The most common and direct translation for 'murderer'. It is neutral in tone and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It literally means 'person-killer'.
He is a murderer.
The murderer hasn't been caught yet.
A more formal and legal term, often used in news reports or official contexts. It specifically means 'murder criminal'.
The murderer was sentenced to life imprisonment.
A literary or formal term for 'murderer'. It is less common in everyday speech and may appear in novels or philosophical discussions.
He is portrayed as a cold-blooded murderer.
To refer to someone who has killed multiple people, often in a pattern or over time.
To refer to a murderer in a story, historical account, or dramatic setting.
An archaic or dramatic term for a murderer or perpetrator, often used in period dramas or historical contexts.
The murderer has not been found yet.
While 殺す人 (korosu hito) literally means 'person who kills', it is not a natural way to say 'murderer' in Japanese. Use 人殺し or 殺人犯 instead.
He is a person who kills. (unnatural)
人殺し is a general, everyday word for 'murderer', while 殺人犯 is more formal and often used in legal or news contexts. 人殺し can also be used as a strong insult, whereas 殺人犯 is more factual.
That guy is a murderer! (emotional/insulting)
The murderer was arrested. (news report)
The mass murderer killed many innocent people.