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.
第二次世界大戦は大きな戦争だった。
World War II was a big war.
戦争は多くの犠牲者を出す。
War produces many casualties.
Means 'battle' or 'fight'. Can refer to a specific battle or a broader struggle, including metaphorical ones. Less formal than 戦争.
この戦いは長く続いた。
This battle continued for a long time.
彼は癌との戦いに勝った。
He won his battle with cancer.
An older, somewhat literary term for war or battle. Often used in historical contexts or traditional expressions.
いくさの世が終わった。
The age of war ended.
Referring to a particular historical war by name.
Using 'war' figuratively to describe an intense, organized effort against something.
Literally 'fight against ~'. The most natural way to express a metaphorical war or struggle.
麻薬との戦い
the war on drugs
貧困との戦いは続いている。
The war on poverty continues.
Means 'eradication campaign'. Often used for official or organized efforts, like 'war on drugs' or 'war on crime'.
政府は麻薬撲滅運動を強化した。
The government intensified the war on drugs.
Referring to the legal or diplomatic state of war.
Means 'state of war'. Used in formal or legal contexts.
両国は戦争状態にある。
The two countries are in a state of war.
Means 'currently engaged in war' or 'at war'. Often used in news reports.
その国は隣国と交戦中だ。
That country is at war with its neighbor.
Specifically a war within a country.
The standard term for 'civil war'.
その国は内戦で荒廃した。
The country was devastated by civil war.
Also means 'civil war' or 'internal disturbance', but can imply rebellion or insurrection.
戦争 (sensō) is the formal, general term for war between nations. 戦い (tatakai) is broader, covering battles, fights, and metaphorical struggles. Use 戦争 for large-scale armed conflict, and 戦い for specific battles or personal struggles.
戦争が終わった。
The war ended.
これは正義のための戦いだ。
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).
内乱が勃発した。
A civil war broke out.