How to say "paralysis" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- noun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe common, general word for paralysis: loss of movement or feeling from nerve or muscle failure, and by extension a numbed, stunned state ('stupor'). The word to reach for in most contexts.
- 不随ふずいnounA less common word for paralysis, especially of the limbs — literally the body no longer obeying. For most purposes まひ is the word you want.
- 中気ちゅうきnounA less common word for palsy: paralysis of the kind brought on by a stroke. Seldom the word you want for 'paralysis' in ordinary use; まひ is the usual choice.
- 中風ちゅうふうnounA less common word for palsy — paralysis such as follows a stroke; it can also refer to the stroke itself. Like 中気, seldom the word you want for 'paralysis'; use まひ.
Use 「まひ」 for paralysis in general, including palsy and stupor; 不随 is a less common word for paralysis of the limbs; 中気 and 中風 are less common words closer to 'palsy', paralysis associated with stroke.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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