Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a 'disabled person' requires sensitivity to context and politeness. The most common and neutral term is 障害者 (shōgaisha), but euphemisms and person-first language are increasingly used in formal and media contexts. Direct translations can sound blunt; understanding the appropriate term for the situation is key.
The most common, neutral way to refer to a person with a disability in everyday or official contexts.
Standard term used in laws, news, and daily conversation. Can be perceived as labeling, so in sensitive situations, consider alternatives.
彼は障害者です。
He is a disabled person.
障害者手帳を持っています。
I have a disability certificate.
A euphemistic spelling that replaces the kanji 害 (harm/damage) with hiragana がい to soften the term. Common in media and official documents aiming for sensitivity.
When you want to emphasize the person before the disability, or speak respectfully in formal settings.
Polite, person-first expression. Literally 'a person who has a disability'. Suitable for formal speeches, customer service, or when showing respect.
障害のある方への配慮をお願いします。
Please be considerate to persons with disabilities.
Even more polite, using honorific language. Common in announcements or written notices.
障害をお持ちの方は優先席をご利用ください。
Persons with disabilities, please use the priority seats.
When you need to specify the nature of the disability, such as physical, intellectual, or sensory.
Person with a physical disability. Standard term.
身体障害者のための施設
facility for people with physical disabilities
Person with a mental disability or psychiatric condition. Standard term, but can carry stigma; use with care.
精神障害者保健福祉手帳
mental disability health and welfare certificate
Person with a hearing impairment.
聴覚障害者のための手話通訳
sign language interpretation for people with hearing impairments
Casual terms that may be used among close acquaintances but can be offensive if used inappropriately.
Colloquial abbreviation meaning 'having a disability'. Can sound blunt or dismissive; avoid in formal settings.
Can be perceived as insensitive. Only use if you are very familiar with the person and context.
彼は障害持ちだけど、元気だよ。
He has a disability, but he's doing well.
Words like 不具者 (fugusha) or 片輪 (katawa) are derogatory and should never be used. Stick to the standard terms above.
In formal or respectful situations, prefer phrases like 障害のある方 over 障害者. This aligns with modern sensitivity trends.
障がい者 is a euphemistic spelling that avoids the kanji 害 (harm). It is often used in media and official documents to soften the term, but the pronunciation is identical.
障がい者支援施設
support facility for persons with disabilities
Specifically refers to a person with a physical disability. Often used in legal and medical contexts.
身体障害者手帳
physical disability certificate
Person with an intellectual disability. Standard term.
知的障害者支援の仕事をしています。
I work in support for people with intellectual disabilities.
Person with a visual impairment.
視覚障害者用の点字ブロック
tactile paving for visually impaired people