Translation guide
The English word "savage" has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether they mean fierce, brutal, primitive, or harshly critical.
Describing someone or something as extremely violent, aggressive, or ferocious.
A standard adjective meaning ferocious or brutal. Used for people, animals, or behavior.
That dog was savage.
Emphasizes cruelty and lack of mercy. Often used for brutal acts.
He killed his enemy in a savage way.
Literary or formal term for ferocious, often used for wild animals.
A savage wolf appeared in the forest.
Referring to a group or culture as lacking civilization, often with a negative or outdated connotation.
Describing a comment or criticism that is extremely severe and unkind.
Modern slang use where 'savage' means cool, fearless, or brutally honest in an admirable way.
Younger Japanese speakers sometimes use the English loanword サベージ (sabēji) in casual contexts, but it's not universally understood. Often better to describe the action as 大胆 (daring) or 容赦ない (merciless) depending on nuance.
That reply was savage.
His savage move was amazing.
The slang meaning of 'savage' (cool, ruthless) does not have a direct Japanese equivalent. Using 野蛮 or 凶暴 would sound like you're calling someone violent or uncivilized, not complimenting them.
凶暴 is the most general for ferocity. 残忍 emphasizes cruelty and moral judgment. 獰猛 is literary and often used for wild animals.
Their customs are considered savage.
She left a savage comment.
I received a savage evaluation from my boss.