Translation guide
The English word "vermin" refers to small animals or insects that are considered pests, often carrying disease or causing damage. In Japanese, there is no single exact equivalent; the best translation depends on the type of creature and context.
vermin (insects)
vermin (animals like rats)
Referring to small animals or insects that are harmful or annoying, especially in a household or agricultural context.
Literally 'harmful insect', but often used broadly for insect pests. Not used for rodents.
This insecticide works on various pests.
Harmful animals, such as rats, wild boars, or deer that damage crops or property.
Harmful birds, such as crows or sparrows that damage crops.
Using 'vermin' metaphorically to describe contemptible people, often in a dehumanizing way.
Can be used figuratively for people, similar to English 'vermin', but it's strong and insulting.
He is a vermin of society.
Literally 'trash/garbage', used as a strong insult for worthless people.
Literally 'scum' or 'dregs', very derogatory term for worthless people.
Specifically referring to rodents or similar small mammals considered pests.
English 'vermin' can include insects, rodents, and other pests. Japanese typically distinguishes between insects (害虫) and animals (害獣). Using 害虫 for rats would be incorrect.
害虫 (gaichū) is for insect pests, while 害獣 (gaijū) is for animal pests like rats, wild boars, etc. If you're unsure, specify the creature or use a phrase like 害になる生き物 (harmful creatures).
農家は害獣による被害に悩まされている。
Farmers are troubled by damage from vermin.
Specifically pests that affect hygiene and health, like cockroaches, flies, and mosquitoes.
Cockroaches are a typical hygiene pest.
カラスは農作物を荒らす害鳥とみなされることもある。
Crows are sometimes considered vermin that damage crops.
Those guys are human vermin.
He's human vermin.
We need to exterminate the vermin.