Translation guide
The English word "ruin" can refer to the state of being destroyed, the action of destroying something, or the physical remains of something destroyed. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
The building is in ruins.
You ruined my plan!
Describing something that is in a ruined, dilapidated, or collapsed state, often buildings or structures.
Refers to ruins, abandoned buildings, or a site that has fallen into disrepair. Often used for modern or historical ruins.
The ruins became a tourist attraction.
Desolation, ruin, decay. Often used for land, cities, or abstract things like morals. More formal or literary.
Describes something tattered, worn out, or falling apart. Casual and often used for objects or buildings.
Expressing the act of ruining something, such as plans, reputation, or physical objects.
To ruin, spoil, or mess up something. Common for plans, events, moods, etc.
Specifically referring to losing all money or going bankrupt.
Bankruptcy, financial ruin. Legal and formal term.
Referring to archaeological sites or ancient remains.
Archaeological site, ancient ruins. Standard term for historical remains.
廃墟 (haikyo) refers to abandoned, dilapidated buildings, often modern or relatively recent. 遺跡 (iseki) refers to ancient archaeological ruins. Use 遺跡 for historical sites like Roman ruins, and 廃墟 for abandoned factories or houses.
English 'ruin' as a verb is often translated as 台無しにする (to spoil) or 壊す (to break). Using 破滅させる is very strong and implies total destruction or downfall, so use it carefully.
The scandal ruined his career.
戦争で国が荒廃した。
The country was ruined by war.
この家はぼろぼろだ。
This house is in ruins.
The rain ruined the picnic.
To bring ruin or destruction, often used for people's lives, careers, or organizations. Stronger and more dramatic.
Gambling ruined him.
To break, destroy, or ruin a physical object. Can also be used figuratively for relationships or plans.
He ruined the vase.
To ruin, spoil, or make something useless. Casual and versatile.
I ruined the dish by adding too much salt.
The company went bankrupt.
To ruin oneself financially or socially, often through vice or poor decisions.
He ruined himself with alcohol.
I went to see the Roman ruins.
Historic ruins, often with cultural significance. More literary.
This area has many historic ruins.
Don't ruin the surprise.