Translation guide
The English word 'pirate' can refer to a sea robber, someone who illegally copies media, or a verb meaning to copy or rob. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
A person who attacks and robs ships at sea.
The standard word for a pirate in the historical or criminal sense. Can also refer to modern maritime piracy.
The pirate hid the treasure.
Pirates attacked the ship.
Loanword from English, often used in names of sports teams, movies, or as a stylistic choice. Not the primary term for actual pirates.
Pirates of the Caribbean is a popular movie.
A person who illegally copies and distributes copyrighted material such as software, music, or movies.
Refers to pirated copies or the act of piracy. Often used as a noun modifier. To describe a person, you might say 海賊版を作る人 (person who makes pirated copies).
Please don't use pirated software.
Literally 'illegal copy'. A more direct and formal term for the act of copying without permission. Can be used as a noun or verb (違法コピーする).
Illegal copying of music is a crime.
The verb meaning to make unauthorized copies of software, music, etc., or to use such copies.
Literally 'use a pirated version'. This is the most natural way to express the action of using pirated material.
He often uses pirated software.
Means 'to download illegally'. Common for digital piracy.
Simply 'to copy'. In context, it can imply illegal copying, but it's ambiguous. Often used with 違法に (illegally) for clarity.
Don't copy that software.
The verb meaning to act as a pirate, attacking and robbing ships. Rare in modern usage.
While 海賊 alone means 'pirate' as a sea robber, for copyright infringement you must use 海賊版 (pirated edition) or other specific terms. Saying 海賊ソフト would be understood but is not standard; 海賊版ソフト is correct.
海賊 is the native Japanese word for pirate and is used in serious contexts (news, history). パイレーツ is a loanword that sounds more playful or commercial, often used in entertainment (e.g., パイレーツ・オブ・カリビアン). For actual piracy, stick with 海賊.
He was a famous pirate.
Don't pirate movies.
Natural Japanese uses 'illegally download' rather than a direct verb for 'pirate'.
He was caught selling pirated DVDs.
Formal legal term for copyright infringement. Used in official contexts.
He was sued for copyright infringement.
You must not download movies illegally.