Translation guide
The English word 'war' refers to large-scale armed conflict. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 戦争 (sensō), but other terms exist for specific types of conflict, historical wars, or metaphorical uses. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on context.
Referring to a state of open, armed conflict, typically between countries or large organized groups.
The general term for 'war'. Used for both historical and modern conflicts. Neutral and widely understood.
World War II was a big war.
Means 'battle' or 'fight'. Can refer to a specific battle or a broader struggle, including metaphorical ones. Less formal than 戦争.
An older, somewhat literary term for war or battle. Often used in historical contexts or traditional expressions.
Referring to a particular historical war by name.
Using 'war' figuratively to describe an intense, organized effort against something.
Referring to the legal or diplomatic state of war.
Means 'state of war'. Used in formal or legal contexts.
Specifically a war within a country.
The standard term for 'civil war'.
War produces many casualties.
この戦いは長く続いた。
This battle continued for a long time.
He won his battle with cancer.
The age of war ended.
the Vietnam War
Used for 'Great War' or 'World War'. Typically for large-scale global conflicts.
the war on drugs
The war on poverty continues.
Means 'eradication campaign'. Often used for official or organized efforts, like 'war on drugs' or 'war on crime'.
The government intensified the war on drugs.
The two countries are in a state of war.
Means 'currently engaged in war' or 'at war'. Often used in news reports.
That country is at war with its neighbor.
The country was devastated by civil war.
Also means 'civil war' or 'internal disturbance', but can imply rebellion or insurrection.
A civil war broke out.
This is a fight for justice.
English uses 'war' in many metaphors (e.g., price war, bidding war). Direct translation with 戦争 often sounds unnatural. Instead, use 競争 (competition) or 合戦 (battle, often in compounds).