Translation guide
A crime that is politically motivated or directed against the state. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 政治犯 (seijihan), which can refer to both the crime and the person convicted of it.
Referring to a crime that is political in nature, such as treason, sedition, or rebellion.
The standard term for a political offence or political crime. Can also refer to a political prisoner.
Referring to a person imprisoned for political reasons.
The English phrase 'political offence' can sometimes mean something that offends people politically. In Japanese, that concept is expressed differently, e.g., 政治的な不快感 (seijiteki na fukaikan) or 政治的に不適切な発言 (seijiteki ni futekisetsu na hatsugen). The terms above refer specifically to crimes.
彼は政治犯として逮捕された。
He was arrested for a political offence.
その活動家は政治犯で起訴された。
The activist was charged with a political offence.
Literally 'political crime'. More explicit than 政治犯, often used in legal or academic contexts.
政治犯罪の定義は国によって異なる。
The definition of political offences varies by country.
An older or more formal term for crimes against the state, such as treason. Rare in everyday speech.
国事犯として裁判にかけられた。
He was tried for a political offence against the state.
This word can mean both the crime and the person convicted. Context clarifies the meaning.
多くの政治犯が釈放された。
Many political prisoners were released.
Literally 'political prisoner'. Less common than 政治犯 but unambiguous.
その政治囚は10年間拘束されていた。
The political prisoner had been detained for 10 years.