Translation guide
A serf is a medieval European peasant bound to the land and subject to a lord. In Japanese contexts, similar historical statuses exist but differ in details.
To refer to a serf in the context of medieval European feudalism.
The standard term for a serf in European history. Literally 'agricultural slave', but distinct from chattel slavery.
In medieval Europe, serfs were bound to the lord's land.
Literally 'tenant farmer'. Can be used for serfs in a broader sense, but lacks the specific unfree status. More common in modern contexts.
Many tenant farmers worked on that manor.
A more technical historical term, literally 'subordinate farmer'. Used in academic contexts.
Serfs were legally restricted in their freedom.
To describe a person in a similar unfree status in Japanese history, such as during the feudal period.
A low-ranking servant or serf-like person in medieval Japan, often bound to a master. Not exactly the same as a European serf but the closest equivalent.
A term for a servant or follower in medieval Japan, often with hereditary obligations. Similar to a serf in some contexts.
Generally means 'peasant' or 'farmer'. In feudal contexts, many were bound to the land, but the term itself does not imply unfreedom. Use with caution.
百姓 is a broad term for farmers and does not specifically mean serf. It can be misleading if used without context.
To describe someone who is metaphorically a serf, i.e., trapped in a situation with no freedom.
農奴 (serf) is not the same as 奴隷 (slave). A serf is bound to the land and cannot be sold individually, while a slave is owned as property. In Japanese, 農奴 specifically refers to the European medieval system, whereas 奴隷 is a broader term for slavery.
Serfs were bought and sold with the land, but slaves were bought and sold as individuals.
When using 'serf' metaphorically in English, a direct translation to 農奴 may sound odd or overly historical. Instead, use phrases like 奴隷のような or 縛られている to convey the sense of being trapped or overworked.
During the Warring States period, the genin did farm work for their lord.
The shojū were subordinate to their master and cultivated the land.
Peasants in the Edo period paid land taxes.
Bound by debt, it's as if I'm a serf.