Translation guide
The English verb "violate" covers a wide range of meanings, from breaking rules to invading personal space. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions by the intended meaning, helping learners choose natural equivalents instead of relying on a single translation.
To fail to comply with a rule, law, regulation, contract, or promise.
The most common and versatile word for violating rules, laws, or regulations. Used in formal and everyday contexts.
He violated traffic regulations.
If you violate the contract, a fine will be imposed.
Literally 'to tear/break', used for breaking promises, rules, or records. Slightly more casual than 違反する, but still common.
You must not violate a promise.
He broke the law.
Used for committing crimes or serious transgressions. Often paired with 罪 (crime) or 法 (law).
He committed a crime. (He violated the law.)
Formal term meaning to be in violation of or conflict with a law or regulation. Often used in legal or official documents.
That act may violate the law.
To intrude upon or disrespect someone's personal boundaries, privacy, or rights.
The standard term for violating rights, privacy, or personal space. Used in legal and everyday contexts.
My privacy was violated.
Acts that violate human rights are unacceptable.
Literally 'to enter', used for intruding into someone's private space or affairs. Often used with 領域 (territory) or プライバシー.
Similar to 侵害する but more literary. Used for violating rights, territory, or sanctity.
To treat something sacred or highly respected with disrespect or irreverence.
To commit sexual violence against someone.
The standard phrase for sexual assault. More direct and clear than euphemisms.
He was arrested for violating a woman.
General term for assault; context often implies sexual assault when used with 性的に (sexually).
She was sexually violated.
Can mean 'to rape' in certain contexts, but is somewhat euphemistic and less direct. Use with caution.
This word is ambiguous and can sound outdated or literary. Prefer more specific terms for clarity.
違反する is the safest choice for 'violate a rule/law' in formal and neutral contexts. 破る is more casual and often used for promises or records. 犯す is for crimes and serious transgressions, and can also mean 'to rape' in certain contexts, so use carefully.
English uses 'violate' broadly, but Japanese often requires a more specific verb depending on the object. For example, 'violate a contract' is 契約に違反する, while 'violate privacy' is プライバシーを侵害する. Using a single Japanese word for all meanings will sound unnatural.
彼の私生活に立ち入るべきではない。
You shouldn't violate his private life.
Fundamental human rights must not be violated.
You must not violate the sanctuary.
彼女は犯された。
She was violated (raped).