Translation guide
The English word 'outlaw' can refer to a person who has broken the law and is on the run, or to the act of making something illegal. This guide covers both meanings and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
Referring to a criminal who is evading capture, often living outside the law.
Literally 'lawless person'. This is the most direct and common translation for 'outlaw' in the sense of a person who disregards the law.
Referring to the act of officially declaring something to be against the law.
Means 'to prohibit' or 'to ban'. This is the most common and natural way to express the idea of outlawing something.
政府はその薬物を禁止した。
The government outlawed the drug.
There is no single Japanese verb that directly corresponds to 'outlaw'. Using 禁止する is the most natural choice. Avoid trying to create a compound verb like 無法化する, which is not standard.
彼は西部開拓時代の無法者だ。
He is an outlaw from the Wild West era.
Means 'criminal'. It is a broader term and does not necessarily imply the person is on the run, but it is often used in contexts where 'outlaw' might be used.
その犯罪者は警察から逃げている。
The criminal is on the run from the police.
Means 'fugitive'. Emphasizes the aspect of being on the run. Use when the person is actively evading law enforcement.
逃亡者は国境を越えた。
The fugitive crossed the border.
Loanword from English. Used in specific contexts like movies or games, but not common in everyday speech.
彼はアウトローな生き方をしている。
He lives an outlaw lifestyle.
Means 'to make illegal'. More formal and precise, often used in legal or political contexts.
その組織は非合法化された。
The organization was outlawed.
Literally 'to forbid by law'. A more explicit phrase, but less common in everyday speech.
その行為は法で禁じられている。
That act is outlawed.