Translation guide
How to express the act of using abusive, insulting, or vulgar language in Japanese, ranging from general verbal abuse to specific swear words.
To say that someone is using abusive or insulting language in general.
A common and natural phrase meaning 'to hurl abuse' or 'to use abusive language'. It covers a wide range of verbal abuse.
彼は怒って暴言を吐いた。
He got angry and used abusive language.
To specifically refer to using swear words, profanity, or vulgar expressions.
Literally 'to use dirty words', this is a natural way to say someone is using vulgar or profane language.
子供の前で汚い言葉を使わないでください。
Please don't use vulgar language in front of the children.
To say something insulting to a person's face.
Japanese does not have a direct equivalent to many English swear words. Translating them literally often sounds unnatural or overly strong. It's better to learn natural Japanese expressions for anger or insult rather than trying to translate 'fuck' or 'shit' directly.
くそ！
Damn! / Shit! (a common exclamation of frustration)
暴言 (ぼうげん) refers specifically to abusive or violent language, often in the heat of the moment. 悪口 (わるぐち) is broader, meaning 'badmouthing' or 'speaking ill of someone', which can be done behind their back and may not involve profanity.
彼は怒って暴言を吐いたが、普段は悪口を言わない。
He used abusive language when angry, but normally he doesn't badmouth people.
A verb meaning 'to verbally abuse' or 'to revile'. It implies a strong, direct attack with words.
相手を罵倒するのはよくない。
It's not good to verbally abuse your opponent.
Literally 'to say bad things', this is a very common way to say 'to speak ill of someone' or 'to badmouth'. It can include abusive language but is broader.
彼はいつも人の悪口を言っている。
He's always badmouthing people.
A verb meaning 'to curse at' or 'to revile'. It is somewhat literary or formal, and less common in everyday speech.
彼は相手を激しく罵った。
He fiercely cursed at his opponent.
Means 'to use crude/vulgar language'. It emphasizes the lack of refinement or class.
彼は下品な言葉を使って笑いを取ろうとした。
He tried to get a laugh by using crude language.
A four-character compound meaning 'a torrent of abuse' or 'all kinds of insults'. It is a strong, literary term.
彼は罵詈雑言を浴びせた。
He hurled a torrent of abuse at them.
Means 'to hurl insults' or 'to curse someone out'. It implies a stream of abusive language directed at someone.
酔っ払いが通行人に悪態をついていた。
A drunk was hurling insults at passersby.