Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for an adopted child depends on the legal and social context, as well as the relationship between the adopter and adoptee. The most common and neutral term is 養子 (youshi), but other words are used in specific situations, such as adopting an adult for family continuity or referring to a foster child.
The standard term for a child who has been legally adopted into a family.
The most common and neutral word for an adopted child. It can refer to both minor and adult adoptees, though context often clarifies age.
彼は養子として育てられた。
He was raised as an adopted child.
養子縁組の手続きを進めている。
We are proceeding with the adoption procedures.
A polite way to refer to someone's adopted child, using the honorific さん. Suitable in respectful conversation.
あの方は養子さんだそうです。
I heard that person is an adopted child.
When the adopted child is a blood relative, such as a nephew or younger cousin, often adopted for inheritance purposes.
Still the standard term, but context (e.g., adopting a nephew to carry on the family name) makes the relationship clear.
彼は叔父の養子になった。
He became his uncle's adopted child.
Specifically refers to adopting one's own nephew. This term is used in legal or traditional family contexts.
家を継ぐために甥養子を迎えた。
They adopted a nephew to succeed the family.
An adult adopted into a family, often to carry on the family name or business, common in traditional Japanese family structures.
Used for adult adoptees as well, though the context (e.g., adopting a son-in-law) makes the age clear.
彼は婿養子として会社を継いだ。
He succeeded the company as an adopted son-in-law.
Specifically a man adopted as a daughter's husband to become the family heir. Common in family business succession.
A child placed in temporary care, not legally adopted. Distinguish from permanent adoption.
A child placed in foster care, often through the child welfare system. Not a legal adoptee.
彼女は里子として育った。
She grew up as a foster child.
A specific term for a foster child under a long-term care arrangement, distinct from short-term or emergency foster care.
養育里子制度について学ぶ。
Learn about the long-term foster care system.
When referring to an adopted child in a modern, non-traditional family structure, the same terms apply but may require additional context.
The word 養子 itself is neutral regarding the parents' gender or marital status. Use it naturally, adding context if needed.
彼女たちは養子を迎えた。
They (a female couple) adopted a child.
養子 (youshi) means adopted child, while 実子 (jisshi) means biological child. Using the wrong term can cause confusion in legal or personal contexts.
彼は養子ではなく実子です。
He is not an adopted child but a biological child.
In Japan, adult adoption is common for family business succession. When you hear 養子, it may refer to an adult, not a child. Context usually clarifies this.
婿養子をとって家を存続させる。
They take an adopted son-in-law to continue the family line.