Translation guide
The English word 'uprising' refers to an act of resistance or rebellion, usually by a group of people against an authority or government. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 蜂起 (ほうき), but there are several other words that carry different nuances, such as scale, violence, and historical context.
To refer to a planned, often armed, rebellion against a government or ruling power.
The citizens' uprising overthrew the dictatorship.
Armed uprisings broke out in various places.
Often translated as 'rebellion' or 'revolt'. It can be used for uprisings, but may imply a larger scale or more prolonged conflict. Slightly more negative connotation than 蜂起.
The peasant uprising was suppressed.
A historical term for uprisings in pre-modern Japan, often by peasants or local samurai. Not used for modern contexts.
Peasant uprisings occurred frequently in the Edo period.
To describe a sudden, often violent, outbreak by a group of people, not necessarily well-organized.
Means 'riot' or 'violent uprising'. Emphasizes the violent, chaotic nature rather than the political goal. Often used for spontaneous civil unrest.
Food shortages caused an uprising (riot).
Refers to a disturbance or riot. Less common than 暴動, and often used in legal or formal contexts.
To express a metaphorical 'uprising', such as a surge of opposition or a movement against something non-physical.
The pattern 'Xに対する蜂起' means 'an uprising against X'. It can be used figuratively, e.g., against social norms.
The youth's uprising against the old system.
Means 'rising up' or 'taking action' for a cause. Often used in motivational contexts, like 'rising up against injustice'. Less common than 蜂起.
蜂起 (uprising) is the most neutral and common term for an organized rebellion. 反乱 (rebellion) often implies a larger scale and may be used for mutinies or revolts within a military context. 暴動 (riot) focuses on the violent, chaotic aspect and is less about political goals.
The English phrase 'rise up' is often translated as 立ち上がる (たちあがる), which means 'to stand up' and is used for individual or collective action, but it is not a direct noun equivalent for 'uprising'. For the noun, use 蜂起 or other terms above.
騒乱罪で起訴された。
He was charged with rioting (for his role in the uprising).
不正に対する市民の決起。
The citizens' uprising against injustice.