Translation guide
The English word 'conscript' can refer to the act of drafting someone into military service or to a person who has been drafted. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Expressing the action of forcing someone to join the military
The standard verb meaning 'to conscript' or 'to draft'. Used in formal and historical contexts.
政府は若者を徴兵した。
The government conscripted young people.
Literally 'to make someone take up military service'. A more descriptive phrase.
Referring to someone forced to join the military
In modern Japan, conscription does not exist (Self-Defense Forces are volunteer-based). Using 徴兵する may sound historical or refer to other countries. For mandatory service, clarify the context.
彼らは国民を兵役に就かせた。
They conscripted citizens.
Can mean 'to conscript' but more commonly 'to summon' or 'to convene'. Used in military contexts for calling up reservists.
軍隊は予備役を召集した。
The military conscripted reservists.
Can refer to the conscription system or a conscripted soldier. Often used in compounds.
彼は徴兵として戦場に送られた。
He was sent to the battlefield as a conscript.
Specifically means 'conscripted soldier'. More precise than 徴兵 alone.
多くの徴集兵が訓練を受けた。
Many conscripts received training.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'a person who entered military service'. Not a common standalone term.
兵役に就いた者には給料が支払われた。
Conscripts were paid a salary.