Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common and direct term for sexual harassment is セクハラ (sekuhara), a loanword abbreviation. However, depending on context, more formal or legal terms like 性的嫌がらせ (seiteki iyagarase) may be used. This guide covers how to express the concept naturally in various situations.
The most common way to refer to sexual harassment in everyday conversation, media, and workplace contexts.
Abbreviation of 'sexual harassment', widely used in Japanese. It is the default term in most contexts, including news, workplace discussions, and casual conversation.
He was sued for sexual harassment.
I attended a training on preventing sexual harassment.
A more formal and explicit phrase meaning 'sexual harassment'. It is used in legal documents, official statements, or when clarity is needed.
Sexual harassment is a serious issue.
The full loanword form, rarely used in everyday speech. It may appear in very formal or academic contexts, but セクハラ is overwhelmingly preferred.
Sexual harassment is a serious social problem.
Describing particular behaviors that constitute sexual harassment, such as unwanted touching, comments, or advances.
Refers to indecent or obscene acts, often used in legal contexts for physical sexual harassment like groping or exposure.
Indecent acts on trains are a crime.
Specifically refers to verbal sexual harassment, such as inappropriate comments or jokes.
I couldn't stand my boss's sexually harassing remarks.
Loanword meaning 'physical touch', often used euphemistically for unwanted touching. It can be neutral but frequently implies inappropriate contact in harassment contexts.
Can be used neutrally for friendly touch, but in harassment discussions it carries a negative connotation.
Referring to sexual harassment in a professional setting, often linked to abuse of authority.
Explicitly states 'sexual harassment in the workplace'. Commonly used in discussions about corporate culture or labor issues.
Rules were strengthened to eliminate workplace sexual harassment.
Abbreviation of 'power harassment', which includes sexual harassment as a subset when it involves abuse of authority. Often used alongside セクハラ.
セクハラ is the everyday term used in conversation and media. 性的嫌がらせ is more formal and explicit, often found in legal or official documents. For most learners, セクハラ is sufficient.
Sexual harassment is unacceptable.
Sexual harassment is prohibited by law.
Do not attempt to translate 'sexual harassment' word-for-word as 性的な嫌がらせ in casual speech; it sounds unnatural. Stick to セクハラ unless formality requires the full phrase.
He often touches women inappropriately.
パワハラやセクハラのない職場を目指しています。
We aim for a workplace free of power harassment and sexual harassment.