Translation guide
A deformity is a part of the body that is misshapen or malformed, either from birth, injury, or disease. This guide covers how to describe physical deformities in Japanese, from medical terms to everyday expressions.
To refer to a body part that is not normally shaped, in a neutral or descriptive way.
The standard medical/biological term for a congenital deformity or malformation. Neutral and factual.
その子は足に奇形がある。
The child has a deformity in the leg.
Means 'deformation' or 'abnormal shape'. Can refer to acquired deformities from injury or disease, not just congenital ones.
事故で指が変形してしまった。
My finger became deformed due to an accident.
A somewhat dated or formal term for a physical defect or disability. Can sound blunt or insensitive in modern casual speech.
生まれつきの不具を抱えている。
He has a congenital deformity.
To describe a deformity that affects someone's appearance, often in a more sensitive or everyday context.
A softer, descriptive phrase meaning 'abnormality in appearance'. Avoids clinical terms and is suitable for general conversation.
彼は顔に見た目の異常がある。
He has a facial deformity.
Means 'appearance-related problem'. A euphemistic way to refer to a deformity without using medical language.
外見上の問題で悩んでいる。
I'm struggling with a deformity (appearance issue).
To specify that the deformity has been present since birth.
The precise medical phrase for 'congenital deformity'.
先天性の奇形は手術で治療できる場合がある。
Congenital deformities can sometimes be treated with surgery.
A more everyday way to say 'deformity from birth', using the common word 生まれつき (by birth).
生まれつきの奇形で、左手の指が三本しかない。
Due to a congenital deformity, I only have three fingers on my left hand.
To describe a deformity that developed later in life due to an accident or illness.
Means 'after-effect' or 'sequela'. Often used for lasting physical changes or deformities resulting from injury or disease.
事故の後遺症で足が変形した。
My leg became deformed as a result of the accident's after-effects.
Literally 'deformation due to illness'. A straightforward descriptive phrase.
リウマチは関節の変形を引き起こす。
Rheumatism causes joint deformities.
Words like 奇形 can sound clinical and may be perceived as insensitive if used to describe a person directly. In everyday conversation, it's often better to use softer expressions like 見た目の異常 or describe the specific condition if known.
彼は生まれつき左手の指が三本しかないんです。
He was born with only three fingers on his left hand.
When possible, use the specific medical condition name (e.g., 口唇裂 for cleft lip) rather than the general term 'deformity'. This is more precise and often more respectful.