Translation guide
The English word "troubles" can refer to problems, difficulties, worries, or sources of distress. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the specific nuance: general problems, personal worries, mechanical issues, or emotional distress. This guide helps you choose the most natural expression.
Referring to problems, difficulties, or issues in a broad sense, such as in daily life, work, or relationships.
The most common and versatile word for 'problem' or 'issue'. Can be used in formal and informal contexts.
He has a lot of troubles.
There are troubles with that plan.
Refers to hardships or difficulties, often more serious or formal than 問題.
He overcame many troubles.
Loanword from English, often used for disputes, conflicts, or technical problems. Common in casual and business contexts.
Troubles occurred during the trip.
I often have troubles with him.
Refers to bother, hassle, or troublesome matters. Often used when something is a nuisance.
That turned into troubles.
Referring to personal anxieties, worries, or emotional troubles.
The most natural word for personal worries or troubles that cause emotional distress.
She confided her troubles.
Specifically refers to things that cause worry or anxiety.
Refers to hardships, toil, or troubles one has endured. Often implies effort and perseverance.
Referring to malfunctions, breakdowns, or technical issues.
The standard word for mechanical breakdown or malfunction.
The car has troubles.
Fix the air conditioner troubles.
Refers to a defect, glitch, or malfunction, often used for software or systems.
Also used for technical troubles, especially in casual or business settings.
Referring to unrest, conflict, or troubles in a societal or political context.
問題 (もんだい) is for objective problems or issues, while 悩み (なやみ) is for personal, emotional worries. Use 問題 for a math problem or a business issue, and 悩み for anxiety or personal troubles.
Solve a math problem.
Discuss troubles about the future.
The English plural 'troubles' often does not translate directly to a plural Japanese word. Instead, use context-appropriate words like 問題, 悩み, or トラブル. Using トラブルズ is not natural.
I have constant money troubles.
I can't sleep when I have troubles.
He had many troubles when he was young.
システムに不具合が発生した。
Troubles occurred in the system.
パソコンにトラブルが起きた。
I had troubles with my computer.
政治的な騒動が起きた。
Political troubles arose.
隣人ともめ事がある。
I have troubles with my neighbor.