How to say "tyranny" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 暴虐ぼうぎゃくnoun, na-adjectiveCovers tyranny in its cruel, brutal aspect — the atrocities and violence of a ruler or regime. Use it when the emphasis is on savage, inhumane oppression rather than mere domineering behavior.
- nounThe straight loanword from English. Choose it in political commentary, academic writing, and translations, where the Western political concept of 'tyranny' is meant and the English term's flavor is wanted.
- 横暴おうぼうna-adjective, nounEmphasizes high-handed, violent conduct — acting oppressively and riding roughshod over others. It fits when 'tyranny' refers to domineering behavior by someone in power rather than to a system of rule.
- 専横せんおうnoun, na-adjectiveCenters on arbitrariness and despotism: a person monopolizing decisions and lording it over others. It suits 'tyranny' when the point is willful, domineering exercise of authority, especially of an individual's attitude or conduct.
Use 暴虐 for cruel, brutal tyranny, 横暴 for high-handed oppressive conduct, 専横 for arbitrary, despotic behavior, and 「ティラニー」 as the loanword in political or translated contexts.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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