Translation guide
The English adverb "severely" describes a high degree of intensity, strictness, or harshness. In Japanese, the best translation depends on what is being described: physical injury, criticism, punishment, weather, or economic conditions. This guide organizes the most natural Japanese expressions by meaning.
To describe actions done in a strict, harsh, or unforgiving manner, such as criticizing, punishing, or enforcing rules.
The most common and versatile adverb for 'severely' in the sense of strictness or harshness. Used with verbs like 叱る (scold), 罰する (punish), 批判する (criticize).
The teacher severely scolded the student.
The rules must be strictly followed.
Used for 'severely' in the sense of strict enforcement or heavy security. Often with 注意する (warn), 処罰する (punish), 警戒する (be vigilant).
We severely warned the violators.
Means 'mercilessly' or 'without mercy'. Used when criticizing or punishing without leniency. Stronger than 厳しく.
He was severely criticized (without mercy).
To describe the extent of physical harm, damage, or illness.
Common adverb for 'severely' when describing injury, damage, or bad conditions. Used with verbs like 傷つける (injure), 壊れる (break), 痛む (hurt).
He was severely injured in the accident.
The house was severely damaged by the typhoon.
Used with verbs like 傷つける (injure) or nouns like 症状 (symptoms) to mean 'severely' in a medical or formal context. Often in compound form 重傷 (serious injury).
He was severely wounded.
Means 'seriously' or 'gravely'. Used for severe situations, problems, or illnesses. Often with 受け止める (take seriously) or 悩む (worry).
We are taking the problem severely/seriously.
To emphasize the extreme degree of a state, often with adjectives or stative verbs.
General intensifier meaning 'very' or 'extremely'. Can translate 'severely' when modifying adjectives like 寒い (cold) or 厳しい (severe).
This winter is severely cold.
Formal/literary intensifier meaning 'extremely'. Used in written language or formal speech.
Common adverb meaning 'very' or 'greatly'. Can be used for 'severely' in casual or polite speech.
To describe something that is greatly limited or constrained.
While ひどく can mean 'severely', it is not used for strictness or harshness in discipline. Use 厳しく instead. Saying ひどく叱る sounds like 'scold terribly' (with emotional intensity) rather than 'scold strictly'.
厳しく is general for strictness in behavior, rules, or criticism. 厳重に is more about strict enforcement, security, or formal warnings. Use 厳重に for things like 警戒 (vigilance) or 処罰 (punishment) in official contexts.
状況は極めて深刻だ。
The situation is severely serious.
大変申し訳ありません。
I am severely sorry. (very sorry)