Translation guide
The crime of betraying one's country, typically by attempting to overthrow the government or aiding its enemies.
The legal or political crime of acting against one's own nation, such as aiding an enemy or attempting a coup.
The standard legal term for the crime of treason, encompassing rebellion and betrayal against the state.
彼は反逆罪で起訴された。
He was charged with treason.
Historically used for high treason, especially against the emperor. Now largely obsolete but still encountered in historical contexts.
大逆罪はかつて死刑に処せられた。
High treason was once punishable by death.
Refers to a traitor to the nation; a person who commits treason. More literary or rhetorical than a legal term.
彼は国賊として非難された。
He was denounced as a traitor to the nation.
General term for betrayal, not specific to treason. Can be used metaphorically for betraying one's country, but lacks the legal weight.
Too broad for legal or political contexts; use only when the sense of personal betrayal is emphasized.
彼の行動は国への裏切りだ。
His actions are a betrayal of the country.
Figurative use: betraying a person, group, or principle, not necessarily a nation.
Breach of trust or faith; often used in formal contexts for betrayal of a duty or loyalty.
それは党への背信行為だ。
That is an act of treason against the party.
Common word for betrayal in personal relationships or groups. Can be used figuratively for 'treason' when the context is clear.
反逆罪 is the modern legal term for treason, while 大逆罪 is a historical term for high treason against the emperor, abolished after WWII. Use 反逆罪 for contemporary contexts.
When 'treason' is used figuratively (e.g., 'treason against love'), direct translation with 反逆罪 sounds unnatural. Use 背信 or 裏切り instead.
彼は反逆罪で処刑された。
He was executed for treason.
異議を唱えることは反逆と見なされた。
Whispering dissent was considered treason.
友を裏切るのは一種の反逆だ。
Betraying a friend is a kind of treason.