Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to a homeless person requires sensitivity to context and politeness. The most common and neutral term is ホームレス, a loanword from English. More formal or official terms exist, but some older words can be derogatory. This guide helps you choose the right expression based on the situation.
To refer to a homeless person in a neutral, everyday context without sounding rude or overly formal.
The most common and neutral term, borrowed from English. Widely understood and used in media and conversation.
駅の近くにホームレスの人がいます。
There is a homeless person near the station.
ホームレス支援のボランティアをしています。
I volunteer for homeless support.
Literally 'street-living person'. A more descriptive and slightly formal term, often used in news reports or official contexts. Considered neutral and respectful.
路上生活者の数は年々増加しています。
The number of homeless people is increasing year by year.
To use a term suitable for government documents, academic papers, or formal discussions.
Even in formal contexts, ホームレス is commonly used in official documents and by NGOs.
ホームレスの実態調査が行われた。
A survey on the actual conditions of homeless people was conducted.
To understand terms that exist but may be offensive or outdated. Generally avoid using these.
Literally 'vagrant' or 'wanderer'. This term is outdated and often carries a negative connotation, implying laziness or criminality. Avoid using it.
This word is considered derogatory and should not be used to refer to homeless people. It appears in older texts but is inappropriate in modern, respectful conversation.
浮浪者という言葉は差別的だとされています。
The word 'furōsha' is considered discriminatory.
Means 'beggar'. Highly derogatory and offensive. Never use this to refer to a homeless person.
Extremely offensive. Do not use.
Direct translations like 家のない人 (person without a house) are not idiomatic and may sound awkward. Stick to ホームレス or 路上生活者.
家のない人
person without a house (unnatural)
ホームレス can be used with の to modify nouns, e.g., ホームレスの人 (homeless person), ホームレスの問題 (homelessness issue).
ホームレスの人々を支援する団体
an organization that supports homeless people
Preferred in some official statistics and legal contexts.
路上生活者支援法が制定された。
The law for supporting homeless people was enacted.
You must never use the term 'kojiki'.