Translation guide
How to express the idea of 'vulgar language' in Japanese, covering profanity, crude expressions, and offensive speech.
Referring to specific offensive words or curses.
A general term for vulgar or obscene words. Often used in formal contexts like dictionaries or academic discussions.
This dictionary contains many vulgar words.
Specifically refers to abusive or insulting language, like name-calling.
He hurled abusive language at me.
Loanword for 'slang', often includes vulgar expressions but is broader.
That slang is very vulgar.
Describing language that is obscene, lewd, or sexually explicit.
A common phrase meaning 'vulgar words' or 'crude language'. '下品' means crude or indecent.
Please don't use such vulgar language.
Specifically refers to obscene or lewd language, often with sexual connotations.
Literally 'dirty words', a casual way to refer to foul language.
Language that is impolite, disrespectful, or insulting in tone.
Means 'abusive language' or 'outburst of insults'. Often used for verbal abuse.
He got angry and spewed abusive language.
General term for speaking ill of someone, including insults and backbiting.
Means 'rude words' or 'impolite language', focusing on lack of respect.
A specific phrase or expression that is considered vulgar.
The English phrase 'vulgar language' covers a wide range of concepts. In Japanese, the appropriate term depends on whether you mean profanity, obscenity, rudeness, or crude jokes. Avoid directly translating 'vulgar' as 下品 in all contexts; it may sound unnatural or overly formal.
He used vulgar language. (neutral, but slightly formal)
He used dirty language. (more casual)
卑語 (higo) is a technical term for obscene words. 下品な言葉 (gehin na kotoba) is a general descriptor for crude language. 暴言 (bōgen) specifically refers to abusive outbursts. Choose based on the nuance you want to convey.
I was shocked by his obscene language.
Don't use dirty words in front of the children.
人の悪口を言うのはよくない。
It's not good to speak ill of others.
You shouldn't use rude language towards your superiors.
彼はいつも下ネタばかり言っている。
He's always telling dirty jokes.