Translation guide
The English word "repercussions" refers to the indirect, often negative consequences of an action or event. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through several nouns and phrases that emphasize aftereffects, echoes, or ripple effects. The most common and versatile term is 影響 (eikyō), though it is broader than "repercussions." For stronger negative nuance, 余波 (yoha) or 反響 (hankyō) are used. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on context and nuance.
Expressing the indirect, often negative results of an action or event, especially those that unfold over time.
The most general term for 'influence' or 'effect.' It can be neutral, positive, or negative, but in context it often implies repercussions. Use with adjectives like 悪い (warui) to specify negative impact.
その決定は経済に悪い影響を与えた。
That decision had a negative impact on the economy.
彼の行動の影響はまだ続いている。
The repercussions of his actions are still ongoing.
Literally 'afterwaves' or 'aftershocks.' Used for repercussions that spread out from an event, often in social, political, or economic contexts. Stronger negative nuance than 影響.
金融危機の余波が世界中に広がった。
The repercussions of the financial crisis spread worldwide.
スキャンダルの余波で会社は倒産した。
The company went bankrupt due to the repercussions of the scandal.
Literally 'echo' or 'reverberation.' Often used for public reaction or repercussions in media and society. Can be neutral or negative depending on context.
その発言は大きな反響を呼んだ。
That remark caused a huge repercussion (public reaction).
政策変更の反響は予想以上だった。
The repercussions of the policy change were greater than expected.
Specifically 'side effect,' often used for unintended negative consequences of actions, similar to 'repercussions' in a cause-and-effect sense. Common in medical, technical, or metaphorical contexts.
その改革は思わぬ副作用を生んだ。
The reform produced unexpected repercussions.
Describing how one event sets off a series of indirect consequences, often spreading through a system.
Literally 'ripple effect.' Used in economics, business, and social contexts to describe how an initial event spreads and causes further effects.
工場閉鎖の波及効果は地域全体に及んだ。
The ripple effects of the factory closure reached the entire region.
Literally 'chain reaction.' Emphasizes a sequence of events where one triggers the next. Often used in technical or figurative senses.
その失敗が連鎖反応を引き起こした。
That failure triggered a chain reaction of repercussions.
Focusing on the personal or direct negative outcomes that someone must deal with as a result of their actions.
Often translated as 'retribution' or 'payback.' Implies a moral or karmic repercussion for one's deeds. Can be used in serious or dramatic contexts.
彼は自分の行動の報いを受けた。
He faced the repercussions of his actions.
Colloquial term meaning 'the bill' or 'the price to pay.' Used informally to refer to negative repercussions that eventually come due.
影響 (eikyō) is the broadest term for 'effect' and can be used in almost any context, but it lacks the specific nuance of indirect or spreading consequences. 余波 (yoha) emphasizes the spreading, wave-like nature of repercussions, often after a major event. 反響 (hankyō) focuses on the 'echo' or public reaction, making it ideal for media or social repercussions. Choose 影響 for general use, 余波 for ripple effects, and 反響 for public response.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches 'repercussions' in all contexts. Avoid trying to translate it directly with obscure terms. Instead, identify the specific nuance (negative effect, ripple effect, public reaction) and use the appropriate word or phrase.
The repercussions of overdoing it are catching up with me now.