Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of an 'underdeveloped country' is most commonly expressed with 発展途上国 (はってんとじょうこく), which literally means 'developing country.' This is the standard, neutral term used in news, academic, and everyday contexts. Other terms exist but are less common or carry different nuances.
The most common and neutral way to refer to a country with a less developed economy and lower standard of living.
Used in more formal or statistical contexts to emphasize a lower level of development, often in contrast with 'developed countries.'
The direct translation '未開発国' (みかいはつこく) is not commonly used and may sound unnatural. Stick to 発展途上国 or 途上国.
In Japanese, as in English, terms like 後進国 are outdated and offensive. Always use 発展途上国 or 途上国 in modern contexts.
This is the standard, politically correct term equivalent to 'developing country.' It is widely used in official contexts, media, and everyday conversation.
多くの発展途上国では、経済成長が急速に進んでいる。
In many developing countries, economic growth is progressing rapidly.
発展途上国への支援が必要だ。
Support for developing countries is necessary.
A shorter, common abbreviation of 発展途上国. It is used in similar contexts but slightly more casual or in headlines.
途上国の貧困問題は深刻だ。
The poverty problem in developing countries is serious.
Literally 'developing country,' this term is used in some official documents and international contexts. It is synonymous with 発展途上国 but slightly more formal.
開発途上国に対する技術協力を行っている。
We are providing technical cooperation to developing countries.
This term directly translates to 'underdeveloped country' but is less common and can carry a slightly negative connotation. It is sometimes used in academic or historical contexts.
This term can sound outdated or pejorative. 発展途上国 is preferred in most situations.
低開発国ではインフラ整備が遅れている。
In underdeveloped countries, infrastructure development is lagging.
Literally 'backward country,' this term is now largely obsolete and considered derogatory. It may appear in older texts but should be avoided in modern usage.
Avoid using this term as it is offensive. Use 発展途上国 instead.
かつて後進国と呼ばれた国々は、今では経済成長を遂げている。
Countries once called backward nations have now achieved economic growth.