Translation guide
Expressions for referring to a past misdeed, wrongdoing, or mistake in Japanese, ranging from formal terms for crimes to casual phrases for personal errors.
To refer to a past misdeed in a general sense, often with a formal or serious tone.
A common and neutral way to say 'past misdeed' or 'past mistake'. Suitable for both formal and informal contexts.
He is reflecting on his past misdeeds.
Literally 'past sin/crime'. Used for serious wrongdoings, often with moral or legal implications.
He is working to atone for his past sins.
Refers specifically to past delinquency or misconduct, often used in legal or educational contexts.
His past misconduct came to light.
To refer to a personal mistake or failure in the past, often with a sense of regret.
To refer to a past criminal act or offense in a legal context.
To express deep regret or shame about a past action, often in a confessional tone.
過ち (ayamachi) implies a moral or ethical mistake, while 失敗 (shippai) is a general failure or error. Use 過ち for serious wrongdoings and 失敗 for everyday mistakes.
That was a youthful indiscretion.
Failing the exam was my mistake.
Directly translating 'past misdeed' as 過去の悪行 (kako no akugyou) is possible but sounds stiff and overly dramatic. Stick to the options above for natural Japanese.
His past crime changed his life.
That is a stain on his life.