Translation guide
In Japanese, the term for intellectual disability has evolved over time. The most current and neutral term is 知的障害 (ちてきしょうがい). Older terms like 精神薄弱 (せいしんはくじゃく) are now considered outdated and potentially offensive. This guide covers the appropriate terminology and usage in modern Japanese.
To refer to the condition of intellectual disability in a neutral, respectful way.
The standard, neutral term for intellectual disability. Used in medical, educational, and everyday contexts.
彼は知的障害があります。
He has an intellectual disability.
知的障害のある子どもたちを支援する。
Support children with intellectual disabilities.
Sometimes used to emphasize the developmental aspect. Slightly more formal or clinical.
知的発達障害の診断を受けた。
Received a diagnosis of intellectual developmental disability.
To recognize older terms that are no longer appropriate.
Formerly used term, now considered derogatory. Replaced by 知的障害. Do not use.
This term is outdated and offensive. Use 知的障害 instead.
精神薄弱という言葉は今は使わない。
The term 'mental retardation' is no longer used.
A derogatory slang term. Highly offensive. Never use.
Extremely offensive. Do not use.
To refer to a person with an intellectual disability respectfully.
Person with an intellectual disability. This is the preferred person-first phrasing.
知的障害のある人も働ける社会を目指す。
Aim for a society where people with intellectual disabilities can also work.
Literally 'intellectually disabled person'. This is a common compound, but some prefer the person-first version. Generally acceptable in formal contexts.
知的障害者支援施設
Support facility for people with intellectual disabilities
To specify a mild degree of intellectual disability.
Mild intellectual disability. Commonly used in educational and medical settings.
軽度知的障害と診断された。
Diagnosed with mild intellectual disability.
Terms like 精神薄弱 (せいしんはくじゃく) and 知恵遅れ (ちえおくれ) are now considered derogatory. Always use 知的障害 (ちてきしょうがい) in modern contexts.
While 知的障害者 (ちてきしょうがいしゃ) is common, using 知的障害のある人 (ちてきしょうがいのあるひと) is often preferred to emphasize the person before the disability.
The term 'chieokure' is a discriminatory word.