Translation guide
The English word 'sinful' describes actions, thoughts, or people that are morally wrong, especially in a religious sense. In Japanese, the concept is often expressed through words related to 'crime' (罪), 'immorality', or 'wickedness', but the religious connotation is less central. This guide covers how to express 'sinful' in various contexts, from religious to everyday moral judgments.
Describing an action, thought, or person as sinful in a religious or serious moral sense.
The most direct equivalent, meaning 'sinful' or 'deeply sinful'. It carries a strong moral or religious weight.
それは罪深い行為だ。
That is a sinful act.
彼は自分の罪深い過去を悔いていた。
He regretted his sinful past.
Attributive form meaning 'sinful' or 'guilty'. Often used in set phrases or literary contexts.
罪なことをしてしまった。
I have done something sinful.
Means 'sense of sin' or 'guilt'. Used to describe the feeling of being sinful.
彼は罪の意識に苛まれている。
He is tormented by a sense of sin.
Describing something as immoral or wrong without religious connotation.
Means 'immoral'. A general term for actions that violate ethical standards.
彼の不道徳な行動は非難された。
His immoral behavior was criticized.
The basic word for 'bad'. In context, it can mean 'sinful' or 'wrong'.
悪いことをしてはいけない。
You must not do bad (sinful) things.
Describing a person or act as extremely sinful or evil.
Means 'evil' or 'wicked'. Stronger than 'sinful' and often used for villains or heinous acts.
彼は邪悪な心を持っている。
He has a sinful (evil) heart.
Means 'heinous' or 'atrocious'. Used for the worst kinds of sins or crimes.
極悪非道な行い
a sinful and outrageous act
Describing something that is enjoyable but considered sinful, like rich food or forbidden pleasures.
Means 'immoral' or 'corrupt', often used for indulgent pleasures that go against morals.
背徳的な快楽にふける
to indulge in sinful pleasures
Literally 'makes one feel guilt'. Used for things like decadent desserts that feel 'sinful'.
このケーキは罪悪感を感じさせるほど美味しい。
This cake is so delicious it feels sinful.
The English word 'sinful' often carries a Christian connotation. In Japanese, 罪 (tsumi) can refer to crime or sin, but the religious weight is less automatic. Use 罪深い for a strong moral/religious sense, but in secular contexts, 不道徳 or 悪い may be more natural.
罪深い (tsumibukai) implies a deep accumulation of sin, often with a sense of regret or moral weight. 邪悪 (jaaku) is more about inherent evil or wickedness, often without the religious framing.