Translation guide
The English word 'panic' can be a noun or a verb. In Japanese, it is expressed through nouns, verbs, and phrases that convey sudden fear, loss of control, or chaos. The most common equivalent is パニック, a loanword used widely in modern Japanese. For more natural or nuanced expressions, native Japanese terms like 慌てる (to panic, to be flustered) or 恐怖 (fear, terror) are used depending on context.
To refer to a state of sudden, intense fear or anxiety that causes irrational behavior or loss of control.
The most direct and common translation. Used in both casual and formal contexts for a state of panic, including psychological panic attacks.
After the earthquake, the city fell into a panic.
Refers to a large-scale panic, often economic (e.g., financial panic) or widespread social panic. More formal and less common in everyday speech.
Means 'fear' or 'terror'. It can be used to describe the feeling of panic, but it lacks the sense of chaotic behavior. Often used in phrases like 恐怖にかられる (to be seized with fear).
To describe the action of panicking, becoming flustered, or losing composure due to fear or stress.
To describe a situation where a group of people suddenly become frightened and act chaotically, such as a stampede or bank run.
To refer specifically to a panic attack as a medical or psychological symptom.
慌てる is a native Japanese verb that describes the act of becoming flustered or panicking in everyday situations. パニックになる is a more direct equivalent of 'to panic' and often implies a stronger, more chaotic reaction. Use 慌てる for mild panic or rushing, and パニックになる for intense, uncontrollable panic.
I panicked because I was about to be late.
Don't panic! Everything will be fine.
She had a panic attack.
1929年の世界恐慌は多くの国に影響を与えた。
The Great Depression of 1929 affected many countries.
He was paralyzed with fear.
The most common verb for 'to panic' in the sense of becoming flustered, rushing, or losing one's cool. It implies a visible loss of composure.
I panicked during the exam.
Don't panic, please calm down.
A very common phrase meaning 'to get into a panic'. It directly uses the loanword パニック and is natural in conversation.
When they heard there was a fire, everyone panicked.
Means to be flustered, bewildered, or lose one's presence of mind. Slightly more formal or literary than 慌てる.
He was thrown into a panic by the sudden question.
Means to lose one's composure, to be upset, or to be thrown into confusion. Often used when someone is visibly distressed and not thinking clearly.
She was so overcome with grief that she panicked.
Used for any mass panic situation, such as a crowd stampede or a rush to buy goods.
A panic broke out at the exit, and people were injured.
Means 'confusion' or 'chaos'. It can describe a panicked state but is broader and less specifically about fear.
The blackout caused mass panic in the venue.
The standard medical term for a panic attack.
He is receiving treatment for panic attacks.
Panic disorder, the condition characterized by recurrent panic attacks.
Panic disorder can improve with proper treatment.
火災報知器が鳴ってパニックになった。
I panicked when the fire alarm went off.
Using パニック for small everyday mistakes (like forgetting your keys) can sound overly dramatic. In such cases, 慌てる or 焦る (to be in a hurry, to feel rushed) are more natural.
The crowd panicked when they heard the explosion.