Translation guide
The English word 'anomaly' refers to something that deviates from what is standard, normal, or expected. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this concept depends on context: whether you're talking about a statistical outlier, a strange occurrence, a person who doesn't fit in, or a formal exception. This guide covers the most useful Japanese expressions for an English speaker.
To describe something that is not normal or typical, without strong negative or positive connotation.
The most direct and common translation for 'anomaly' in a general sense. It means abnormality, irregularity, or something out of the ordinary. Can be used in technical and everyday contexts.
このデータには異常が見られる。
An anomaly can be seen in this data.
体温に異常はありませんでした。
There was no anomaly in body temperature.
Means 'exception'. Use when the anomaly is a case that does not follow the rule or pattern.
この規則には例外が一つある。
There is one anomaly to this rule.
Refers to an irregularity or anomaly in a system or procedure. More formal and often used in rules or schedules.
変則的なスケジュールで運行します。
We will operate on an anomalous schedule.
To describe an unusual, puzzling, or eerie occurrence.
Often used for an unusual or abnormal phenomenon, especially in nature or society, implying something is wrong or mysterious.
自然界に異変が起きている。
An anomaly is occurring in the natural world.
彼の行動に異変を感じた。
I sensed an anomaly in his behavior.
To describe a data point or observation that deviates significantly from other observations.
The standard term for 'outlier' in statistics. Use this for anomalies in data analysis.
この外れ値は測定ミスの可能性がある。
This anomaly may be a measurement error.
Literally 'abnormal value', used in medical or scientific contexts for readings outside the normal range.
To describe someone who is different from the group or societal norm.
Literally 'heretic child', used for a maverick or nonconformist. Often has a positive nuance of being uniquely talented or ahead of their time.
彼は業界の異端児と呼ばれている。
He is called an anomaly in the industry.
A more casual term for an eccentric or odd person. Can be slightly negative or affectionate depending on context.
異常 (いじょう) is the broadest term for 'abnormality' and can be used in technical, medical, and everyday contexts. 異変 (いへん) implies a more dramatic or mysterious change, often in natural or social phenomena. Use 異変 when you want to emphasize that something strange is happening.
Calling someone an 'anomaly' in English can be neutral or even complimentary. In Japanese, directly translating as 異常者 (いじょうしゃ) means 'abnormal person' and is strongly negative, implying mental instability. Use 異端児 or 変わり者 instead for a nonconformist.
Refers to a mysterious or bizarre phenomenon, often with a supernatural nuance. Suitable for 'anomaly' in paranormal contexts.
その廃墟では怪奇現象が報告されている。
Anomalies have been reported in that ruin.
The blood test showed an anomaly.
彼はちょっとした変わり者だ。
He's a bit of an anomaly.