Translation guide
The English word 'peril' refers to serious and immediate danger, often with a sense of risk or exposure to harm. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and set phrases that convey danger, risk, or crisis. The most common and versatile equivalent is 危険 (kiken), but other options exist for more formal, literary, or specific contexts.
Expressing that something is dangerous or involves risk, in a broad sense.
The most common and versatile word for 'danger' or 'peril'. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
That mountain path is perilous.
He entered the cave at his own peril.
Loanword from English 'risk'. Often used in business, finance, or technical contexts. Implies a calculated or potential danger.
This investment carries high peril.
A more formal or literary term for danger or peril, often implying a crisis or calamity. Rare in everyday speech.
To overcome peril.
Emphasizing that the danger is immediate, severe, or potentially fatal.
Literally 'danger to life'. Used when someone's life is at stake. Common in news and serious warnings.
He is in mortal peril.
Means 'crisis' or 'critical situation'. Often used for moments of extreme peril, such as in emergencies or turning points.
A phrase meaning 'danger is approaching' or 'peril looms'. Used to describe an imminent threat.
Indicating that someone takes full responsibility for potential harm or loss.
Describing a person, thing, or situation that is currently in a dangerous state.
Means 'is exposed to danger' or 'is in peril'. A common way to describe an ongoing state of risk.
The area is in peril of flooding.
Means 'precarious state' or 'perilous condition'. Slightly more literary or dramatic.
危険 (kiken) is the general word for danger and can be used in everyday situations. リスク (risuku) is a loanword that often implies a calculated or potential risk, commonly used in business, finance, and technical fields. For most translations of 'peril', 危険 is the safer choice.
Smoking is a peril to health.
Investment always involves peril.
The English phrase 'at your peril' is often used as a warning. In Japanese, it is more natural to use 自己責任で (jiko sekinin de) or a specific warning phrase rather than a direct translation. For example, 'Ignore this advice at your peril' could be rendered as この忠告を無視すると危険です (If you ignore this advice, it will be dangerous).
Ignore this advice at your peril.
The sailors faced great peril during the storm.
He saved the child at his own peril.
The species is in peril of extinction.
The country is facing economic peril.
We were saved at the last moment from peril.
To warn of impending peril.
He went to the rescue at his own peril.
His life is in peril.