Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'annulment' depends on the context: legal dissolution of a marriage, cancellation of a contract or decision, or invalidation of a law or rule. The most common and versatile term is 取り消し (torikeshi), but specific legal terms exist for marriage annulment.
To declare a marriage null and void, as if it never legally existed.
The standard legal term for annulment of marriage, meaning the marriage is void from the beginning. Used in formal and legal contexts.
婚姻の無効を裁判所に申し立てた。
They filed for an annulment of marriage in court.
Refers to annulment where the marriage is voidable (e.g., due to fraud or duress) and can be canceled. Slightly different from 無効, which means void from the start.
詐欺による婚姻の取消しが認められた。
The annulment of the marriage due to fraud was granted.
To cancel, revoke, or rescind something that was previously decided or agreed upon.
The most common and versatile word for cancellation, revocation, or annulment of contracts, orders, decisions, etc. Used in everyday and legal contexts.
契約の取り消しを申し出た。
They requested the cancellation of the contract.
注文の取り消しはできますか？
Can I cancel my order?
Often used for withdrawal or retraction of a statement, proposal, or decision. More formal than 取り消し.
Used for annulment or abrogation of contracts, treaties, or agreements, often implying a complete breaking or nullification. Common in legal and diplomatic contexts.
条約の破棄が発表された。
The abrogation of the treaty was announced.
Means invalidation or nullification. Used in technical or legal contexts when something is rendered void.
To declare a law, regulation, or official outcome null and void.
The noun meaning 'invalidity' or 'nullity'. Often used in phrases like 無効にする (to invalidate) or 無効となる (to become void).
その選挙結果は無効と宣言された。
The election results were declared invalid.
Means abolition or repeal of a system, law, or practice. Focuses on discontinuation rather than retroactive invalidation.
取り消し (torikeshi) is the most general term for cancellation and can be used in daily life. 撤回 (tekkai) is specifically for retracting statements or proposals. 破棄 (haki) implies a stronger, often legal, breaking of an agreement or contract.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'annulment'. Using アニュルメント (anyurumento) is not standard. Always choose the term based on what is being annulled.
彼は前言を撤回した。
He retracted his previous statement.
The law was invalidated.
The law was repealed.