Translation guide
The English word "wrath" refers to intense, often righteous anger. In Japanese, the concept is expressed through several words and phrases that differ in intensity, formality, and context. This guide helps you choose the most natural expression for your situation.
Expressing strong, often righteous anger, similar to "wrath" in a general sense.
A common and strong word for intense anger or rage. It can be used in both spoken and written contexts, and is suitable for describing someone's wrath.
彼の不正が社長の激怒を買った。
His misconduct incurred the president's wrath.
The general word for anger. While not as intense as "wrath" on its own, it can be modified (e.g., 激しい怒り) to convey strong fury. It's very common and neutral.
彼の顔には激しい怒りが表れていた。
Intense wrath was visible on his face.
A literary or formal term for wrath or indignation. Often used in written language or dramatic speech.
民衆の憤怒が爆発した。
The wrath of the people exploded.
An archaic or very formal term for wrath, often used in Buddhist contexts or classical literature. Rare in modern conversation.
忿怒の形相でにらみつけた。
He glared with an expression of wrath.
Referring to the wrath of a god, deity, or a powerful figure, often with moral implications.
The standard phrase for "wrath of God" or divine wrath. It's used in religious contexts and metaphors.
彼らは神の怒りを恐れた。
They feared the wrath of God.
Literally "heaven's punishment," this conveys the idea of divine wrath or retribution. Often used when someone gets their comeuppance.
それは天罰だ。
That is divine wrath.
Specifically Buddhist divine punishment or wrath. Used in Buddhist contexts.
仏罰が下る。
Buddha's wrath will befall.
Describing the action of making someone very angry, often a superior or powerful person.
A common idiom meaning "to incur someone's anger/wrath." It implies that one's actions provoked the anger.
彼は上司の怒りを買った。
He incurred his boss's wrath.
Describing a facial expression or attitude that shows intense anger.
A descriptive phrase meaning "eyes burning with anger/wrath." It vividly conveys a wrathful look.
彼は怒りに燃える目で私を見た。
He looked at me with eyes burning with wrath.
A noun meaning "anger" or "wrath" as an aura or expression. Often used in phrases like 怒気を含んだ声 (a voice filled with wrath).
彼の声には怒気が含まれていた。
His voice was filled with wrath.
While 激怒 (gekido) is a strong word, directly translating "wrath" in every context can sound unnatural. Japanese often uses 怒り (ikari) with intensifiers or specific idioms. Consider the context and relationship between the angry person and the target.
激怒 (gekido) is the most common and versatile for intense anger. 憤怒 (funnu) is more literary and often implies righteous indignation. 忿怒 (fundo) is archaic and rarely used outside historical or religious texts.
Literally "to touch the reverse scale" (of a dragon), this idiom means to provoke someone's wrath, especially a superior's. It's vivid and somewhat formal.
彼の失言が社長の逆鱗に触れた。
His slip of the tongue touched the president's wrath.