Translation guide
The feeling or thought that something may be true or someone may be guilty, without proof. Also, a very small amount of something.
Expressing a belief that someone has done something bad or that a situation is not right, based on little evidence.
The most common and general word for suspicion. Can be used for doubting a person, a statement, or a situation.
彼の行動に疑いを持っている。
I have suspicions about his behavior.
その話は疑いの余地がない。
There is no room for suspicion in that story.
Often used for public suspicion or scandal, implying a cloud of doubt over someone's actions, especially in formal or news contexts.
その政治家は汚職の疑惑をかけられている。
The politician is under suspicion of corruption.
Legal term for suspicion of a crime, used in criminal contexts.
彼は殺人の嫌疑で逮捕された。
He was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Describing a tiny quantity of something, often used figuratively.
A common phrase meaning 'just a little bit', often used with nouns to indicate a suspicion (small amount) of something.
スープにほんの少し塩を加えた。
I added a suspicion of salt to the soup.
A suffix meaning 'a touch of' or 'a hint of', often used for slight negative feelings or conditions.
彼は疲れ気味だ。
He has a suspicion of tiredness.
Literary expression for a faint trace or touch, often used with emotions like anxiety or regret.
Expressing a general feeling that someone cannot be trusted.
A feeling of distrust or lack of confidence in someone. Often used in personal relationships or towards institutions.
彼に対して不信感を抱いている。
I harbor suspicion towards him.
A doubt or suspicion lingering in one's mind, often about the truth or sincerity of something.
Indicating that something is barely perceptible or just suggested.
A sign, indication, or hint of something, often used for sensing a presence or a change.
部屋に誰かの気配を感じた。
I felt a suspicion of someone in the room.
A sign or omen, often used for the beginning of something, like a suspicion of spring.
疑い (utagai) is the general term for suspicion in everyday life. 疑惑 (giwaku) is used for public scandals or formal doubts. 嫌疑 (kengi) is strictly legal, referring to criminal suspicion.
彼の話には疑いがある。
I have suspicions about his story.
その会社は不正会計の疑惑がある。
The company is under suspicion of accounting fraud.
容疑者は窃盗の嫌疑で調べられている。
The suspect is being investigated on suspicion of theft.
When 'suspicion' means a very small amount, do not use 疑い. Instead, use phrases like ほんの少し (honno sukoshi) or 一抹 (ichimatsu) depending on context.
彼は窃盗の疑いで逮捕された。
He was arrested on suspicion of theft.
彼女が嘘をついているのではないかという疑いがある。
I have a suspicion that she is lying.
コーヒーにほんの少しシナモンを加えてください。
Add a suspicion of cinnamon to the coffee.
一抹の不安が残る。
A suspicion of unease remains.
I felt suspicion about his explanation.
A suspicion of spring has begun to appear.