Translation guide
The quality of being morally bad or evil. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various words that differ in nuance, from inherent evil to social injustice.
Describing a person, act, or nature that is fundamentally bad or evil.
The most general term for 'evil' or 'wickedness'. Can refer to abstract evil, evil deeds, or evil people.
Wickedness lurks in his heart.
善と悪の戦い
the battle between good and evil
Emphasizes a sinister, malevolent quality. Often used for deeply wicked characters or acts.
邪悪な笑みを浮かべた。
He gave a wicked smile.
その計画は邪悪だ。
That plan is wicked.
Means 'heinous' or 'atrocious'. Used for extreme wickedness, often in legal or dramatic contexts.
極悪非道の犯罪
a heinous and wicked crime
Describing a person's inherent disposition toward evil.
Literally 'black-bellied'. Describes someone who appears kind but is secretly wicked or scheming.
彼は腹黒い奴だ。
He's a wicked guy (with a dark heart).
Means 'ill-natured' or 'wicked by nature'. Often used for someone who is fundamentally bad-tempered or mean.
Means 'malicious' or 'vicious'. Often used for deliberate wickedness, such as in crimes or pranks.
Referring to wickedness in society, institutions, or systems.
Means 'injustice' or 'unfairness'. Often used for corruption, fraud, or social wrongs.
社会の不正を暴く
to expose the wickedness in society
Refers to 'evil practices' or 'abuses' that have become entrenched in a system.
政治の悪弊を正す
to correct the wicked practices in politics
Describing evil as a cosmic force or demonic influence.
Refers to 'demon', 'devil', or 'evil spirit'. Often used in fantasy or religious contexts.
心の魔に打ち勝つ
to overcome the wickedness in one's heart (lit. the demon within)
Means 'evil spirit' or 'malice'. Can be used for a supernatural aura of wickedness.
邪気を払う
to ward off wickedness (evil spirits)
悪 (あく) is the broadest term for evil. 邪悪 (じゃあく) emphasizes a sinister, malevolent nature. 極悪 (ごくあく) is reserved for the most heinous acts and is often used in legal or dramatic contexts.
In English, 'wicked' can be slang for 'cool' or 'excellent' (e.g., 'That's wicked!'). This does not translate to any of the Japanese words for wickedness. Use すごい or かっこいい instead.
彼の行動の邪悪さに皆が衝撃を受けた。
The wickedness of his actions shocked everyone.
彼女は世の中の悪を信じられなかった。
She couldn't believe the wickedness in the world.
あの子は性悪だ。
That kid is wicked (by nature).
悪質ないたずら
a wicked prank