Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'serious crime' is expressed through specific nouns and legal terms. The most common and general term is 重大犯罪 (jūdai hanzai), but depending on context, other words like 重罪 (jūzai) or 凶悪犯罪 (kyōaku hanzai) may be more appropriate. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on nuance and formality.
To refer to a crime that is severe in nature or consequence, in a general or news context.
He was arrested on suspicion of involvement in a serious crime.
The rate of serious crime is high in this area.
Often used in legal contexts or to emphasize the gravity of the offense. It can imply a crime punishable by severe penalties. Slightly more formal than 重大犯罪.
Murder is a serious crime.
He was indicted for a serious crime.
To emphasize the brutal, violent, or atrocious nature of the crime.
Specifically refers to heinous or violent crimes, such as murder, robbery, or assault. Commonly used in news media when describing brutal incidents.
Violent crimes are on the rise.
Means 'malicious crime' or 'vicious crime'. It emphasizes the malicious intent or harmful nature of the act. Less common than 凶悪犯罪 but still used in formal contexts.
To refer to a crime classified as a felony or one that carries the death penalty, in a strictly legal sense.
In legal terminology, 重罪 specifically refers to crimes punishable by death, life imprisonment, or long-term imprisonment. It is the closest equivalent to 'felony' in Japanese law.
Under Japanese criminal law, serious crimes may be punishable by death.
Literally 'great crime', often used in historical or religious contexts, or to describe a grave sin. Not commonly used in modern legal settings.
重大犯罪 is the most general and neutral term for 'serious crime'. 重罪 is more formal and often used in legal contexts, emphasizing the severity of punishment. 凶悪犯罪 specifically highlights the brutal or violent nature of the crime. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.
Do not directly translate 'serious crime' as 真面目な犯罪 (majime na hanzai) or 深刻な犯罪 (shinkoku na hanzai). These sound unnatural and do not convey the intended meaning. Stick to the established terms above.
He became a victim of a heinous crime.
Severe penalties are necessary for malicious crimes.
彼は大罪を犯したと自白した。
He confessed to committing a grave crime.