Translation guide
The English word "rape" refers to the crime of sexual assault. In Japanese, the legal term has changed, and there are multiple words depending on formality and context. This guide covers the most common and useful expressions for an English-speaking learner.
Referring to the act of rape as a crime or concept.
The most direct and common word for rape. Historically used in legal contexts, but now being replaced by 不同意性交等罪 in law. Still widely understood.
He was arrested for rape.
The current legal term for rape since 2023, emphasizing lack of consent. Used in formal and legal contexts.
Loanword from English, commonly used in media and casual conversation. Can sound slightly less formal than 強姦.
Describing the action of raping someone.
The standard verb form. Can be used in active or passive voice.
Referring to a person who has been raped.
Standard term for rape victim. 被害者 means victim.
Discussing the concept of rape culture or related social issues.
Direct loanword for 'rape culture', used in feminist and sociological discussions.
Referring to the specific crime of statutory rape (sex with a minor under the age of consent).
Referring to rape within marriage.
Literally 'marital rape'. The concept is recognized in Japanese law but may be less commonly discussed.
Referring to rape committed by multiple perpetrators.
The standard term for gang rape. Often used in news reports.
Referring to systematic rape in conflict zones.
Means 'wartime sexual violence', the common term used in international and historical contexts.
Rape is a highly sensitive and traumatic topic. Use these terms with extreme care and only when necessary. In many contexts, euphemisms or indirect language may be preferred. Avoid using these words casually or in jokes.
In 2023, Japan revised its Penal Code, replacing the crime of 強姦罪 (rape) with 不同意性交等罪 (non-consensual sexual intercourse crime). The new law broadens the definition and removes the requirement of 'violence or intimidation'. In everyday conversation, 強姦 is still widely understood, but in legal contexts, 不同意性交等罪 is now correct.
In Japanese, it is common to use indirect expressions when discussing sexual violence, such as 被害に遭う (to be victimized) or 乱暴する (to assault, can imply sexual assault). This can soften the impact in sensitive conversations.
She was raped on her way home.
The criminal law was revised, and the crime of rape was changed to non-consensual sexual intercourse crime.
That drama contains a rape scene.
Means 'sexual assault', broader than rape. Often used in news reports to encompass various sexual crimes.
Victims of sexual assault are seeking support.
The perpetrator raped a woman.
She was raped by a stranger.
Loanword verb, more casual. Often used in colloquial speech or media.
He confessed that he raped her.
Literally 'to inflict sexual assault', a more formal and indirect way to describe the act.
The suspect is alleged to have sexually assaulted the victim.
There is a support center for rape victims.
Using the loanword, common in media.
The rape victim courageously came forward.
Broader term for victim of sexual assault.
Victims of sexual assault can consult anonymously.
Movements to eliminate rape culture are spreading.
Japanese translation of 'rape culture', less common than the loanword but used in academic contexts.
Rape culture is a serious problem in society.
Direct translation of 'statutory rape', used in legal contexts. Note that Japan's age of consent has recently changed.
He was indicted for statutory rape.
In some Japanese prefectures, sexual acts with minors are prosecuted under local youth protection ordinances rather than as 'rape'. This phrase means 'violation of the youth protection and development ordinance'.
He was arrested for violating the youth protection ordinance (for sexual acts with a minor).
Marital rape is also a crime.
Another term for marital rape, using 'spouse' instead of 'married couple'.
Victims of marital rape find it difficult to speak out.
They were arrested on suspicion of gang rape.
Another term for gang rape, literally 'group rape'.
A gang rape incident occurred.
Wartime sexual violence is a crime against humanity.
Direct loan translation, used in media and advocacy.
Victims of war rape are still suffering.
She was assaulted (sexually).
Rape is a serious crime.
The number of reported rapes has increased.