Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for 'symptom' is 症状 (しょうじょう). It is used in medical and everyday contexts. For specific symptoms, compound words with 症 (しょう) are common. In casual conversation, people often describe how they feel rather than using the word 'symptom' directly.
Referring to a sign or indication of a disease or condition, as used in medical or formal contexts.
The standard, neutral term for 'symptom'. Used in both medical and everyday contexts.
風邪の症状が出ています。
I have cold symptoms.
この薬は症状を和らげます。
This medicine relieves the symptoms.
A more technical term, often used in medical literature or formal diagnoses. Less common in everyday speech.
この症候群には様々な症候が見られます。
Various symptoms are seen in this syndrome.
Referring to a particular symptom using a compound noun, often ending in 症.
In casual conversation, instead of saying 'I have a symptom of...', people often describe the sensation directly.
Use phrases like 〜が痛い (it hurts), 〜がする (I feel...), or 〜みたい (seems like...). This is more natural than using 症状 in casual talk.
なんか頭が痛いんだよね。
I kind of have a headache.
ちょっと熱っぽい。
I feel a bit feverish.
Using 'symptom' metaphorically to indicate a sign of a problem or situation.
Means 'sign' or 'indication', often used for non-medical contexts like economic or social problems.
これは経済衰退の兆候だ。
This is a symptom of economic decline.
Similar to 兆候 but more formal and often used in academic or technical writing.
In everyday conversation, saying 症状が出ている sounds clinical. It's more natural to name the specific symptom (e.g., 頭が痛い) or use 具合が悪い (feel unwell).
社会不安の徴候が見られる。
Symptoms of social unrest can be seen.