Translation guide
The English word "strife" refers to conflict, struggle, or discord. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on the context: whether it's personal quarrels, social unrest, or internal struggle. This guide covers common Japanese expressions for these nuances.
General conflict, disagreement, or discord between people or groups.
A general term for conflict, dispute, or strife. Can be used for personal quarrels or larger conflicts.
Family strife never ends.
The strife over territory continues.
Refers to disputes or conflicts, often used for social, political, or legal strife. More formal than 争い.
Resolving international strife takes time.
Discord or disharmony, especially in personal relationships. Implies a lack of harmony rather than open fighting.
Strife arose between the two.
Mental or emotional conflict within oneself.
Widespread conflict or disorder in society.
Disturbance, upheaval, or civil strife. Often used for riots or social unrest.
Domestic strife is escalating.
Upheaval or turmoil, often historical or political. Implies a state of disorder.
Internal strife or infighting, especially within an organization or group.
争い is the most general and can be used for any kind of conflict, from personal to international. 紛争 is more formal and often used for legal or political disputes. 葛藤 is specifically for internal, psychological conflict.
The English word "strife" is somewhat literary. In casual Japanese, it's often more natural to use specific words like 喧嘩 (けんか, quarrel) or 揉め事 (もめごと, trouble) instead of a direct translation.
I'm torn between work and family.
愛の悶えに苦しむ。
To suffer from the strife of love.
動乱の時代を生き抜く。
Survive an era of strife.
党内の内紛が激化している。
Internal strife within the party is intensifying.