Translation guide
The English word "losses" can refer to financial deficits, military casualties, or general things that are lost. This guide helps learners express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Expressing a financial deficit or money lost in business, investments, or personal finance.
The most common and neutral term for financial loss. Used in business, accounting, and everyday contexts.
Referring to soldiers killed, wounded, or missing in action, or equipment destroyed in war.
Referring to items, opportunities, or abstract things that are lost or gone.
損失 (そんしつ) is primarily for financial or economic loss. 損害 (そんがい) is for physical damage or casualties, including war losses. Do not use 損失 for military casualties.
台風で農作物に損害が出た。
The typhoon caused damage to crops.
The English plural 'losses' often translates to a singular concept in Japanese. Do not try to force a plural form; context makes it clear.
会社は大きな損失を出した。
The company posted a large loss.
投資で損失を被った。
I suffered losses on my investments.
Literally 'red figures', meaning a deficit or being in the red. Commonly used for business or budget shortfalls.
今月は赤字だ。
We're in the red this month.
A more casual term for loss or disadvantage, often used in everyday speech about losing money.
株で損をした。
I lost money on stocks.
General term for damage or losses, including military casualties and material losses.
敵に大きな損害を与えた。
We inflicted heavy losses on the enemy.
Specifically refers to those killed in battle. More precise than general 'losses'.
その戦いで多くの戦死者が出た。
There were many losses (killed) in that battle.
Victims or casualties, often used in a broader sense including civilians.
地震で多くの犠牲者が出た。
The earthquake caused many losses (casualties).
Formal term for losing something, often used for documents, luggage, or items.
パスポートの紛失にご注意ください。
Please be careful not to lose your passport.