Translation guide
An old grudge refers to a lingering resentment or ill will from a past event. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with words like 恨み (urami) or 遺恨 (ikon), often in set phrases. The concept is closely tied to holding onto negative feelings over time.
Express a long-held feeling of bitterness or desire for revenge due to a past wrong.
The most common word for a grudge or resentment. Often used in phrases like 恨みを晴らす (to avenge a grudge).
Talk about getting revenge or resolving a long-held resentment.
The standard phrase for 'to avenge a grudge' or 'to settle a score'.
彼はついに恨みを晴らした。
He finally settled his old grudge.
The English phrase 'old grudge' is often translated directly as 古い恨み, but in natural Japanese, the 'old' part is usually implied by context or expressed with words like 昔の (mukashi no) or 以前の (izen no). Simply saying 恨み often suffices.
彼は古い恨みをまだ忘れていない。
He still hasn't forgotten his old grudge.
A more formal or literary term for a deep-seated grudge, often implying a lasting feud.
両家の間には深い遺恨がある。
There is a deep old grudge between the two families.
A common phrase meaning 'to hold a grudge' or 'to bear a grudge'. Literally 'to hold at the root'.
彼女は昔のことをまだ根に持っている。
She still holds an old grudge about what happened.
A deep, almost supernatural grudge or vengeful spirit. Often used in dramatic or historical contexts.
彼の怨念は死後も消えなかった。
His old grudge didn't disappear even after death.
A more formal version of 'to avenge a grudge', using 遺恨.
彼は遺恨を晴らすために戻ってきた。
He came back to settle an old grudge.