Translation guide
The English word "claim" has several distinct meanings. This guide breaks them down into practical uses: asserting something is true, demanding something as a right, and taking ownership or responsibility. For each meaning, natural Japanese expressions are provided, ranging from common verbs to formal written terms.
To state or maintain as a fact, often without providing proof or when others may doubt it.
The most general and neutral verb for asserting an opinion or fact. Used in both spoken and written contexts.
彼は自分が正しいと主張した。
He claimed that he was right.
The company claims that the product is safe.
To insist stubbornly, often in the face of opposition. Slightly more emotional or forceful than 主張する.
彼女は何も知らないと言い張った。
She claimed she knew nothing.
To assert confidently or declare with certainty. Often used when the speaker is very sure.
専門家はその治療法が効果的だと断言した。
The expert claimed that the treatment is effective.
To claim a title or identity for oneself, often with a nuance of self-proclamation or lack of official recognition.
彼は専門家を自称しているが、資格はない。
He claims to be an expert, but he has no qualifications.
To ask for or demand something that you believe you are entitled to, such as money, property, or a legal right.
To claim or demand payment, compensation, or reimbursement. Commonly used in financial and legal contexts.
損害賠償を請求した。
They claimed damages.
医療費を保険会社に請求してください。
Please claim your medical expenses from the insurance company.
To demand or request something as a right, often in a broader sense than 請求する. Can be used for non-monetary demands.
労働者は賃上げを要求した。
The workers claimed a pay raise.
To assert ownership of something, or to accept responsibility for an action or event.
Can also be used for claiming ownership or rights, though often with a nuance of asserting a claim.
彼はその土地の所有権を主張した。
He claimed ownership of the land.
A straightforward way to say "claim it's mine/hers/his." Used in casual conversation.
誰かがその傘を自分のものだと言った。
Someone claimed the umbrella as theirs.
主張する is a neutral assertion, while 言い張る implies stubbornness or insistence, often in the face of contradiction. Use 言い張る when someone is adamant despite evidence to the contrary.
彼は無罪を主張したが、証拠があった。
He claimed innocence, but there was evidence.
彼は無罪だと言い張ったが、誰も信じなかった。
He insisted he was innocent, but no one believed him.
The English noun 'claim' (e.g., 'make a claim') often translates to specific Japanese nouns like 主張 (assertion), 請求 (demand for payment), or 申し立て (formal statement). Using a single word for all cases can sound unnatural. Choose based on context.
To make a formal claim or statement, especially in legal or official proceedings.
彼は無実を申し立てた。
He claimed his innocence.
To come forward and claim something, such as a prize or responsibility. Often used when someone identifies themselves.
犯人が名乗り出た。
The culprit claimed responsibility (came forward).