Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of a criminal record is expressed through several terms that differ in formality, context, and nuance. The most common and neutral term is 前科, but legal and colloquial alternatives exist.
To refer to a person's past criminal convictions in a general sense.
The standard, neutral term for a criminal record. Used in everyday conversation and official contexts.
彼には前科がある。
He has a criminal record.
前科がつくと就職が難しくなる。
Having a criminal record makes it hard to find a job.
Literally 'crime history', a more formal or legal term. Often used in official documents or news reports.
彼の犯罪歴は警察に記録されている。
His criminal record is on file with the police.
A broader term meaning 'previous record' or 'past history', which can include criminal history but is not limited to it. Often used in legal or investigative contexts.
容疑者の前歴を調べる。
Investigate the suspect's past record.
To state that someone has no criminal convictions.
To refer to an official document proving one's criminal history (or lack thereof).
The official term for a criminal record certificate, often required for visas or employment abroad.
ビザ申請のために犯罪経歴証明書が必要だ。
I need a criminal record certificate for my visa application.
Literally 'certificate of no crime', used in some contexts to mean a police clearance certificate.
海外就職には無犯罪証明書の提出が求められる。
A certificate of no criminal record is required for overseas employment.
前科 is the everyday term for a criminal record, while 犯罪歴 is more formal and often used in legal or official contexts. 前科 is more common in conversation.
Do not translate 'criminal record' literally as 犯罪記録 (hanzai kiroku). While understandable, it is not a natural Japanese term for this concept.