Translation guide
The English word 'stigma' refers to a mark of disgrace or a negative social label. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean social stigma, a physical mark, or a metaphorical stain.
Expressing that someone or something is socially disgraced, shamed, or carries a negative label.
Literally 'dirty name', this is the closest general term for a stigma or bad reputation attached to a person or group.
He was branded with the stigma of a criminal.
Means 'prejudice' or 'bias'. Often used when stigma arises from societal prejudice.
The stigma against mental illness is deep-rooted.
The direct loanword from English. Used in academic or sociological contexts, but not as common in everyday speech.
Social stigma breeds discrimination.
Literally 'stain' or 'blot', used metaphorically for a stigma on one's record or honor.
That incident became a stigma on his career.
Referring to a visible mark on the body, often with negative connotations.
Means 'scar' or 'mark from a wound'. Can be used for physical stigmas like scars from disease or injury.
The stigma of smallpox remains on his face.
Means 'birthmark' or 'bruise'. Can be used for a visible skin mark that might be stigmatized.
Specifically referring to the wounds of Christ appearing on a person's body.
The standard term for stigmata in a Christian context.
St. Francis is said to have received the stigmata.
The part of a pistil that receives pollen.
The botanical term for stigma.
Pollen adheres to the stigma.
汚名 (omei) is a concrete 'bad name' or 'dishonor' attached to someone. 偏見 (henken) is the prejudice that causes stigma. スティグマ (sutiguma) is the sociological concept, often used in academic writing. For everyday talk about social stigma, 汚名 or 偏見 are more natural.
Do not translate 'stigma' as 傷 (kizu) alone; it means 'wound' or 'injury' and lacks the social connotation. Use 汚名 or 偏見 for social contexts.
She is self-conscious about the stigma on her face.