Translation guide
Describes a state of being worn out, weakened, or dilapidated due to old age or long use. This can apply to people, objects, or buildings.
To describe an elderly person's frail, weakened physical state.
To describe something man-made that is falling apart from age or neglect.
To describe a person or thing that is exhausted, shabby, or past its prime.
The most direct and common term for physical decline due to old age. Often used in medical or formal contexts.
祖父は老衰で亡くなった。
My grandfather died of old age (decrepitude).
A somewhat blunt or colloquial verb meaning 'to become senile and decrepit'. Can be derogatory, so use with care.
Can sound disrespectful. Avoid using about someone directly unless you intend to be rude.
彼はすっかり老いぼれてしまった。
He has become completely decrepit.
An onomatopoeic expression describing someone who is tottering or feeble with age. Very colloquial.
おばあちゃんはよぼよぼだけど、まだ元気だ。
Grandma is decrepit but still lively.
Refers to deterioration or aging of structures, facilities, or equipment. Commonly used in news and formal writing.
その橋は老朽化が進んでいる。
The bridge is becoming decrepit.
Implies ruin, desolation, or decay, often with a nuance of neglect or abandonment. Used for buildings, land, or even abstract things.
廃墟となった工場は荒廃している。
The abandoned factory is in a state of decrepitude.
Verb meaning 'to decay' or 'to rot', often used for wood or organic materials, but can apply metaphorically to buildings.
古い家は朽ちて倒れそうだ。
The old house is so decrepit it looks like it might collapse.
An onomatopoeic word meaning tattered, worn-out, or falling apart. Very versatile for objects, clothes, or even a person's condition.
この靴はもうぼろぼろだ。
These shoes are completely decrepit.
Describes something rickety, shaky, or in poor condition, like a machine or piece of furniture.
その机はがたがただ。
That desk is decrepit.