Translation guide
The English word "ruin" can refer to the state of being destroyed, the action of destroying something, or the physical remains of something destroyed. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression based on the intended meaning.
その建物は廃墟になっている。
The building is in ruins.
私の計画を台無しにした！
You ruined my plan!
Describing something that is in a ruined, dilapidated, or collapsed state, often buildings or structures.
Refers to ruins, abandoned buildings, or a site that has fallen into disrepair. Often used for modern or historical ruins.
その廃墟は観光名所になった。
The ruins became a tourist attraction.
Desolation, ruin, decay. Often used for land, cities, or abstract things like morals. More formal or literary.
戦争で国が荒廃した。
The country was ruined by war.
Describes something tattered, worn out, or falling apart. Casual and often used for objects or buildings.
この家はぼろぼろだ。
This house is in ruins.
Expressing the act of ruining something, such as plans, reputation, or physical objects.
To ruin, spoil, or mess up something. Common for plans, events, moods, etc.
雨でピクニックが台無しになった。
The rain ruined the picnic.
To bring ruin or destruction, often used for people's lives, careers, or organizations. Stronger and more dramatic.
ギャンブルが彼を破滅させた。
Gambling ruined him.
To break, destroy, or ruin a physical object. Can also be used figuratively for relationships or plans.
To ruin, spoil, or make something useless. Casual and versatile.
塩を入れすぎて料理をダメにした。
I ruined the dish by adding too much salt.
Specifically referring to losing all money or going bankrupt.
Referring to archaeological sites or ancient remains.
Archaeological site, ancient ruins. Standard term for historical remains.
ローマの遺跡を見に行った。
I went to see the Roman ruins.
Historic ruins, often with cultural significance. More literary.
この地には多くの古跡がある。
This area has many historic ruins.
廃墟 (haikyo) refers to abandoned, dilapidated buildings, often modern or relatively recent. 遺跡 (iseki) refers to ancient archaeological ruins. Use 遺跡 for historical sites like Roman ruins, and 廃墟 for abandoned factories or houses.
English 'ruin' as a verb is often translated as 台無しにする (to spoil) or 壊す (to break). Using 破滅させる is very strong and implies total destruction or downfall, so use it carefully.
そのスキャンダルで彼のキャリアは台無しになった。
The scandal ruined his career.
サプライズを台無しにしないで。
Don't ruin the surprise.
He ruined the vase.
To ruin oneself financially or socially, often through vice or poor decisions.
彼は酒で身を持ち崩した。
He ruined himself with alcohol.