Translation guide
The Latin adverb 'sic' is used in English writing to indicate that a quoted error or unusual phrasing is reproduced exactly as in the original source. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various phrases and symbols that convey 'as written' or 'as is', often with a nuance of acknowledging a mistake or oddity.
To show that a mistake or unusual expression in a quote is from the original source, not a transcription error.
Literally 'as in the original text'. Commonly used in Japanese writing to indicate that a quoted passage is reproduced exactly, including any errors or peculiarities. Often placed in parentheses after the quoted part.
彼は「私は学生です（原文ママ）」と言った。
He said, "I am a student (sic)."
A shorter version of 原文ママ, used in similar contexts. It can be placed in parentheses after the quoted error.
その記事には「東京は日本の首都（ママ）」と書かれていた。
The article said, "Tokyo is the capital of Japan (sic)."
Means 'as in the original text'. Used to clarify that a quote is verbatim, including any mistakes. More explicit than ママ.
引用部分は原文のままです。
The quoted part is as in the original (sic).
In academic or formal writing, you can add a note like [原文ママ] or [原文のまま] after the error. This is similar to using [sic] in English.
「彼は行きました[原文ママ]」
"He went [sic]"
To stress that something is quoted exactly as it appears, without implying an error.
Means 'as it is' or 'just like that'. Used to indicate that something is reproduced without changes. Not specifically for errors, but can serve a similar function.
彼の言葉をそのまま伝えます。
I will convey his words exactly as they are.
Literally 'every single character and phrase as is'. Emphasizes verbatim reproduction.
契約書を一字一句そのままコピーした。
I copied the contract verbatim.
原文ママ is more formal and explicit, while ママ is a casual abbreviation. Both are used in writing to indicate a quoted error. In spoken Japanese, people might say 「原文ママです」 to explain a quote.
ここは原文ママです。
This part is as in the original (sic).
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'sic'. The concept is expressed through phrases that mean 'as written' or 'as is'. Using 'sic' itself in Japanese text is rare and may not be understood.