Translation guide
The English word 'murderer' refers to a person who intentionally kills another person. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 人殺し (hitogoroshi), but there are several other terms that vary by context, formality, and nuance. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on the situation.
To refer to someone who has committed murder in a general, everyday sense.
The most common and direct translation for 'murderer'. It is neutral in tone and can be used in both spoken and written Japanese. It literally means 'person-killer'.
彼は人殺しだ。
He is a murderer.
人殺しがまだ捕まっていない。
The murderer hasn't been caught yet.
A more formal and legal term, often used in news reports or official contexts. It specifically means 'murder criminal'.
殺人犯は終身刑を言い渡された。
The murderer was sentenced to life imprisonment.
A literary or formal term for 'murderer'. It is less common in everyday speech and may appear in novels or philosophical discussions.
彼は冷酷な殺人者として描かれている。
He is portrayed as a cold-blooded murderer.
To refer to someone who has killed multiple people, often in a pattern or over time.
The standard term for 'serial killer'. It is used in news and crime contexts.
警察は連続殺人犯を追っている。
The police are pursuing the serial killer.
Refers to a 'mass murderer', someone who kills many people at once or in a short period.
その大量殺人犯は多くの無実の人々を殺した。
The mass murderer killed many innocent people.
To refer to a murderer in a story, historical account, or dramatic setting.
An archaic or dramatic term for a murderer or perpetrator, often used in period dramas or historical contexts.
下手人はまだ見つかっていない。
The murderer has not been found yet.
While 殺す人 (korosu hito) literally means 'person who kills', it is not a natural way to say 'murderer' in Japanese. Use 人殺し or 殺人犯 instead.
彼は殺す人だ。
He is a person who kills. (unnatural)
人殺し is a general, everyday word for 'murderer', while 殺人犯 is more formal and often used in legal or news contexts. 人殺し can also be used as a strong insult, whereas 殺人犯 is more factual.
あいつは人殺しだ！
That guy is a murderer! (emotional/insulting)
殺人犯が逮捕された。
The murderer was arrested. (news report)