Translation guide
The English word 'plague' can refer to a deadly epidemic disease, a large-scale infestation of pests, or a persistent nuisance. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a deadly, widespread infectious disease, especially the bubonic plague.
The most common and direct translation for the bubonic plague. Used in historical and medical contexts.
Describing a large number of harmful animals or insects causing damage.
Means 'a massive outbreak of ~'. Used for swarms of insects or rodents.
Referring to something that causes continual annoyance or difficulty.
Literally 'seed of worry'. A common phrase for a persistent problem or annoyance.
When 'plague' means a persistent nuisance, do not use ペスト or 疫病. Those words refer to diseases. Use phrases like 悩みの種 or 迷惑 instead.
The plague spread widely in medieval Europe.
A general term for epidemic or pestilence. Can be used for any severe infectious disease outbreak.
The village was wiped out by a plague.
Literally 'Black Death disease'. Specifically refers to the historical bubonic plague pandemic.
The Black Death raged in Europe in the 14th century.
This year, a plague of locusts destroyed all the crops.
Refers to harmful animals or vermin. Often used in the context of pest control.
In this area, damage from a plague of rats is serious.
Means 'mass outbreak' or 'proliferation'. Can be used for any sudden increase in pests.
We're having trouble with a plague of cockroaches.
Traffic jams are a real plague.
Literally 'seed of headache'. Similar to '悩みの種', meaning a source of worry or trouble.
His irresponsibility is a plague.
Means 'nuisance' or 'annoyance'. Can be used to describe a person or thing that causes trouble.
Those sales calls are a real plague.