Translation guide
This entry covers how to express the concept of non-consensual sexual intercourse in Japanese, ranging from legal terms to everyday expressions. It focuses on terms that clearly convey lack of consent, as well as related concepts like sexual assault and rape.
To refer to the crime of rape or sexual assault in formal, legal, or news contexts.
The standard legal term for rape. Used in criminal law and formal reporting. Note that Japanese law has been updated to use '不同意性交等罪' (see below), but this term is still widely understood.
彼は強姦罪で起訴された。
He was indicted on charges of rape.
The current legal term under Japanese law (since 2023), meaning 'non-consensual sexual intercourse'. This term explicitly focuses on the lack of consent. Used in legal documents and news.
不同意性交等罪は、同意のない性行為を処罰する。
The crime of non-consensual sexual intercourse punishes sexual acts without consent.
Means 'sexual assault'. A broader term that can include rape but also other forms of sexual violence. Common in news and formal contexts.
性的暴行の被害者が支援を求めている。
Victims of sexual assault are seeking support.
To talk about rape or sexual assault in everyday conversation, often using more direct or colloquial terms.
Literally 'to forcibly do sexual acts'. A clear, direct way to describe non-consensual sex in spoken Japanese. Not a legal term, but easily understood.
彼は彼女に無理やり性行為をした。
He forced her to have sex.
Literally 'to do sexual acts without consent'. A straightforward way to emphasize the lack of consent. Suitable for both spoken and written contexts.
同意なく性行為をすることは犯罪です。
Having sex without consent is a crime.
Loanword from English 'rape'. Commonly used in media and conversation, but can sound blunt or sensational. Use with care.
Can be too direct or insensitive in some contexts. Prefer descriptive phrases when discussing the topic sensitively.
To refer to sexual violence or abuse in a broader sense, which may include non-consensual intercourse.
Means 'sexual violence'. A broad term encompassing all forms of sexual harm, including rape. Common in advocacy and news.
性暴力の根絶を目指す運動が広がっている。
Movements aiming to eradicate sexual violence are spreading.
To refer to non-consensual sex indirectly, often in victim narratives or when avoiding explicit terms.
Literally 'even though (she) was unwilling, forcibly...'. Used to describe the situation without using explicit sexual terms. Often followed by 'した' (did it) or 'やった' (did it).
彼は私が嫌がっているのに無理にした。
He forced me even though I was unwilling.
Means 'unwanted sexual acts'. A more formal but still indirect way to refer to non-consensual sex. Used in counseling or support contexts.
望まない性的な行為を強いられた。
I was forced into unwanted sexual acts.
A direct translation like '非合意的性交' (ひごういてきせいこう) is not natural Japanese. While it might be understood, it sounds like a calque from English. Use the terms provided above depending on context.
非合意的性交
non-consensual sexual intercourse (literal, unnatural)
強姦 (rape) was the standard legal term until 2023, when it was replaced by 不同意性交等罪 (crime of non-consensual sexual intercourse) to broaden the definition and focus on consent. In everyday language, 強姦 is still widely recognized, but in legal contexts, the newer term is used.
When discussing this topic, Japanese speakers often use indirect expressions or euphemisms to avoid causing distress. Phrases like '嫌がっているのに無理に' (forcing despite unwillingness) are common in personal accounts. In formal settings, terms like 性的暴行 or 性暴力 are preferred.
彼女はレイプ被害を警察に届けた。
She reported the rape to the police.
Means 'sexual abuse'. Often used in contexts of ongoing abuse, such as child sexual abuse or domestic violence.
子どもの性的虐待は深刻な問題だ。
Child sexual abuse is a serious problem.