Translation guide
A physical or biochemical abnormality present at birth. In Japanese, the most common and neutral term is 先天性異常 (せんてんせいいじょう). Other terms vary by formality and context.
Referring to a birth defect in a neutral, medical context.
Standard medical term for congenital anomaly. Safe for most situations.
先天性異常の原因は様々です。
There are various causes of birth defects.
Slightly shorter variant, also common in medical contexts.
Using a more formal or academic term, often in written reports.
Specifically refers to structural birth defects (malformations). More technical.
先天奇形の発生率は地域によって異なります。
The incidence of congenital malformations varies by region.
Talking about a birth defect in a casual conversation.
Commonly used in everyday language, though 障害 can imply disability. Use with care.
その子は生まれつきの障害がある。
That child has a birth defect.
The English word 'defect' can sound harsh. Japanese terms like 異常 (abnormality) or 障害 (disability) are more common and less stigmatizing in medical contexts. 欠陥 (defect) is rarely used for people.
先天性異常 is a broad term covering any congenital anomaly, including functional disorders. 先天奇形 specifically refers to structural malformations (e.g., cleft lip, heart defects). Use 先天奇形 only when the defect is morphological.
Early detection of birth defects is important.
Literally 'congenital disease', often used interchangeably with 先天性異常.
この先天性疾患は遺伝します。
This birth defect is hereditary.
A more descriptive phrase meaning 'abnormality from birth'. Slightly less clinical.
彼は生まれつきの異常で手術を受けた。
He had surgery for a birth defect.
Literally 'illness from birth', a softer way to refer to a congenital condition.
生まれつきの病気で、定期的に通院しています。
I have a birth defect and go to the hospital regularly.