Translation guide
The English word "palsy" refers to paralysis or a condition involving tremors or involuntary muscle movements. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 麻痺 (まひ), which broadly means paralysis or loss of sensation. For specific medical conditions like Bell's palsy or cerebral palsy, more precise terms are used. This guide covers how to express the concept of palsy in Japanese, from general paralysis to specific disorders.
Expressing the general concept of paralysis, numbness, or loss of muscle control, as in "facial palsy" or "his arm was palsied."
The standard medical and general term for paralysis or palsy. Can refer to loss of motor function or sensation. Used in compounds like 顔面麻痺 (facial palsy).
事故の後、彼の右腕は麻痺してしまった。
After the accident, his right arm became paralyzed.
顔面麻痺の症状が出ている。
I have symptoms of facial palsy.
Refers to numbness or tingling, often temporary. Not exactly paralysis, but used when describing a "pins and needles" sensation or mild palsy-like symptoms.
長時間正座をしていたら、足が痺れた。
My legs went numb after sitting in seiza for a long time.
Means paralysis, often used in medical contexts like 半身不随 (hemiplegia). More formal and less common in everyday speech.
彼は脳卒中の後、半身不随になった。
He became hemiplegic after the stroke.
Referring specifically to Bell's palsy, a temporary facial paralysis.
The direct translation of Bell's palsy, commonly understood in medical contexts.
ベル麻痺は通常、数週間で回復します。
Bell's palsy usually recovers in a few weeks.
The medical term for facial nerve paralysis, which includes Bell's palsy. More descriptive.
顔面神経麻痺の原因は不明なことが多い。
The cause of facial nerve palsy is often unknown.
Referring to the congenital disorder of movement and posture.
The standard term for cerebral palsy. Used in medical and everyday contexts.
彼は脳性麻痺を持って生まれた。
He was born with cerebral palsy.
The abbreviation CP (シーピー) is sometimes used in medical or support contexts, but 脳性麻痺 is clearer.
CPのお子さんを支援する団体です。
This is an organization that supports children with CP.
Expressing the trembling or shaking associated with some forms of palsy, especially in historical or literary contexts.
General word for trembling or shaking, which can be used for palsy-like tremors.
恐怖で手に震えがきた。
My hands trembled with fear.
Medical term for tremor, such as in Parkinson's disease. Not commonly used in everyday language.
English sometimes uses "palsied" as an adjective (e.g., "his palsied hand"). In Japanese, it's more natural to use 麻痺した (paralyzed) or 震える (trembling) rather than trying to directly translate the archaic verb form.
麻痺 (まひ) implies a more serious, often permanent loss of motor function, while 痺れ (しびれ) is usually temporary numbness or tingling. Use 麻痺 for medical palsy, and 痺れ for a limb "falling asleep."
Essential tremor is common in the elderly.