Translation guide
The concept of separation in Japanese can be expressed through various words and phrases depending on the context: physical separation, emotional distance, divorce, or parting ways. The most common and versatile term is 別れ (wakare), but other options like 分離 (bunri) for technical or physical separation, 離婚 (rikon) for divorce, and 隔たり (hedatari) for emotional distance are also important. This guide organizes expressions by the type of separation you want to convey.
Expressing the act of parting ways with someone, saying goodbye, or ending a relationship.
The most common and general word for separation, parting, or farewell. It can refer to breaking up with a partner, saying goodbye to a friend, or any kind of parting.
The breakup with him was painful.
We said our farewells.
A polite or softened version of 別れ, often used in formal or emotional contexts, such as funerals or formal goodbyes.
This is goodbye.
A formal or literary term for separation, often used for divorce or parting of spouses. Less common in daily conversation.
Marital separations are increasing.
Describing the state of being physically apart, separated, or isolated from something or someone.
Refers to physical or mechanical separation, such as separating components, or the state of being detached. Also used in technical contexts.
Isolation or quarantine, often used for medical or social separation. Implies keeping someone or something apart from others.
Specifically referring to the legal or formal end of a marriage.
Expressing a sense of emotional separation, distance, or a gap between people.
A gap or distance, often emotional or psychological. Can also refer to physical distance or a difference in opinion.
I feel a distance between the two of us.
Literally 'ditch' or 'groove', but metaphorically a rift or gap in a relationship. Often used in the phrase 溝ができる (a rift forms).
Leaving or being removed from a group, company, or organization.
別れ (wakare) is the most general term for any kind of parting or separation, including breakups and farewells. 分離 (bunri) is used for physical or technical separation, like separating substances or mechanical parts. 離婚 (rikon) specifically means divorce. Use 別れ for emotional or personal separations, 分離 for scientific or physical contexts, and 離婚 only for marriage dissolution.
English 'separation' can cover many nuances. In Japanese, using the wrong word can sound unnatural. For example, 'separation anxiety' is 分離不安 (bunri fuan), not 別れ不安. Always consider the specific type of separation before choosing a word.
Isolate infected individuals.
Describes a state where people or things that should be together are separated, often with a sense of sadness or longing.
The family was separated (from each other).
The couple is living separately.
A rift has formed between him and me.
withdrawal from the EU