Translation guide
The concept of sin in Japanese is expressed through words that carry different nuances, from religious wrongdoing to moral transgression and crime. The most common and versatile term is 罪 (tsumi), but context determines whether you use a native Japanese word, a Sino-Japanese compound, or a more specific term.
To refer to a sin in the broad sense of a moral or ethical transgression, or an act that goes against divine law or social norms.
The most common and general word for sin, crime, or offense. It can be used in both religious and secular contexts. Often appears in set phrases.
Refers to sin or crime with a stronger emphasis on the evil nature of the act. Often used in compounds like 罪悪感 (sense of guilt).
to be tormented by a sense of guilt
A Buddhist term for sinful acts that produce bad karma. Used in religious or philosophical contexts.
to accumulate sinful karma
To refer to a sin in the sense of a crime punishable by law.
To refer specifically to the Christian doctrine of original sin.
To distinguish between mortal and venial sins in Catholic theology.
To describe the state of being sinful or tainted by sin.
To express the action of sinning.
To talk about forgiving sins or atoning for them.
To refer to a minor sin or fault, often in a self-deprecating or apologetic way.
Mistake, error, fault. Can be used for a moral failing or sin, but softer than 罪. Often implies a lapse in judgment.
youthful indiscretion / a mistake of youth
Fault, blame, offense. A somewhat literary or formal term for a sin or transgression.
The English word 'sin' is sometimes borrowed as シン (shin) in Japanese, but this is mainly used in the context of trigonometry (sine) or as a name. It is not used to mean moral sin. Always use 罪 or another appropriate term.
罪 (tsumi) is a broader term covering sin, crime, and guilt, often with moral or religious overtones. 犯罪 (hanzai) specifically refers to a legal crime. In everyday conversation, 罪 is more common for personal failings, while 犯罪 is used for police reports and news.
罪 is often used in lighthearted or exaggerated ways, similar to 'sin' in English phrases like 'it's a sin to waste food.' For example, 食べ物を捨てるのは罪だ (Throwing away food is a sin).
He confessed his sins.
Is it a sin to think such things?
to admit one's guilt / to plead guilty
to bear the blame