Translation guide
The act of expressing disapproval or criticism, often with the intent to correct behavior. In Japanese, the appropriate expression depends on the relationship, severity, and context.
To express mild disapproval or correction in everyday situations, often among family, friends, or close colleagues.
The most common verb for scolding or reproving someone, typically used by a superior (parent, teacher, boss) to a subordinate. Can range from mild to stern.
母は子供を叱った。
The mother scolded her child.
To give a warning or point out a mistake, often used in workplace or public settings. Less emotional than 叱る.
上司に遅刻を注意された。
I was reproved by my boss for being late.
To nag or find fault in a petty way, often used for persistent, minor reproofs.
祖母はいつも小言を言う。
My grandmother is always nagging.
To express strong disapproval in a formal setting, such as a workplace, school, or official capacity.
A formal term for reprimanding or rebuking, often used in official contexts. Stronger than 叱る.
彼は規則違反で叱責された。
He was reprimanded for violating the rules.
A very formal, often written term for an official reprimand or censure, used in legal or bureaucratic contexts.
委員会はその行為を譴責した。
The committee censured the conduct.
To express disapproval based on moral or ethical grounds, often with a sense of admonishment.
To admonish or warn against wrongdoing, often with a moral or cautionary tone. Can be used for self-admonishment as well.
先生は生徒の不正を戒めた。
The teacher admonished the student for dishonesty.
To remonstrate or advise against something, often used when correcting a superior or elder with respect. Literary nuance.
To express disapproval of one's own actions, often internally.
A feeling of self-reproach or guilt. Often used in psychological or reflective contexts.
彼は自責の念に駆られた。
He was driven by self-reproach.
To blame or reproach oneself. A common, straightforward expression.
失敗して自分を責めた。
I reproached myself for the failure.
English often uses 'reproof' as a noun (e.g., 'a gentle reproof'), but Japanese more naturally uses verbs or verb phrases. Instead of a direct noun equivalent, use constructions like 叱られた (was scolded) or 注意を受けた (received a warning).
The retainer remonstrated with his lord about the recklessness.