ローグ
rōgu
The English word rogue can be translated into Japanese as ローグ (rōgu).
The katakana form ローグ is primarily used in the context of video games or fantasy tabletop RPGs to refer to a specific character class (the rogue). In general conversation, a native speaker would more commonly use the Japanese word 悪党 (akutō) to describe a person who is a scoundrel or a villain.
Meaning: a scoundrel, rascal or unprincipled, deceitful, and unreliable person (noun)
Which one should you use?
While ローグ is a loanword used in specific subcultures, a native speaker would more commonly use the Japanese word 悪党 (akutō) to describe a person who is a scoundrel or a villain in general conversation.
How do you pronounce it?
rōgu
Did you know?
- Japanese has a specific term ならず者 (narazumono) for a rogue, which literally describes someone who 'does not become' a proper member of society.
- In historical Japanese contexts, the role of the 'rogue' or outlaw was often filled by ronin, samurai who became masterless and lived outside the strict social hierarchy.
- Because ローグ is so tied to the 'Rogue-like' game genre, Japanese speakers may use the word to describe game mechanics and procedural generation instead of a person.
Examples in context
- 彼は悪党のような行動をとった。He acted like a rogue.
- 彼は無頼漢のように振る舞った。He behaved like a rogue.
- あいつは本当に悪党だな。That guy is a real rogue.
Example conversation
Daito and Yui are talking about a shady businessman.
- 大翔 Hirotoあの男は本当のローグだよ。ano otoko wa hontō no rōgu da yo.That man is a real rogue.
- 結衣 Yuiどうしてそう思うの、大翔？dōshite sō omō no, Daito?Why do you think so, Daito?
- 大翔 Hiroto約束を何度も破ったからさ。yakusoku o nando mo yabutta kara sa.Because he broke his promises many times.
- 結衣 Yui結衣も彼には気を付けるわ。Yui mo kare ni wa ki o tsukeru wa.Yui will be careful of him too.
