弱者
jakusha[d͡ʑa̠kɯ̟̊ɕa̠]
The English phrase "weak person" can be translated into Japanese as 弱者 (jakusha).
In modern Japanese, 弱者 is often used in a sociological or systemic context to refer to the vulnerable or those with less power in society, rather than just someone with physical weakness.
How do you pronounce it?
jakusha
Did you know?
- In traditional Japanese aesthetics, there is a value placed on 弱さ (yowasa), or 'weakness', as a form of honesty and vulnerability that can create a deep emotional bond between people.
- In Japanese internet slang, the phrase 弱者男性 (jakusha dansei), or 'weak men', has become a specific sociological label for men who struggle with employment and social isolation.
- The term 弱者 is central to the Japanese concept of 弱者救済 (jakusha kyūsai), which translates to 'relief for the weak'. This refers to a legal and social principle where the law protects the party with less bargaining power in a contract.
Examples in context
- 「彼は弱々しい人です」(かれはよわよわしいひとです)He is a weak person
- 社会における弱者を守るべきだ。Shakai ni okeru jakusha o mamoru beki da.We should protect the weak in society.
- 彼は弱者の味方です。Kare wa jakusha no mikata desu.He is an ally of the weak.
- 弱者が不利にならない制度が必要です。Jakusha ga furi ni naranai seido ga hitsuyō desu.A system is needed so the weak are not disadvantaged.
Example conversation
Two students are discussing a news report about social welfare.
- 陽太 Yota弱者を救うための対策はありますか？Jakusha o sukuu tame no taisaku wa arimasu ka?Are there any measures to save the weak?
- 美咲 Misakiはい、新しい支援制度が始まります。Hai, atarashii shien seido ga hajimarimasu.Yes, a new support system is starting.
- 陽太 Yota美咲さんはそのニュースを知っていたんですね。Misaki-san wa sono nyūsu o shitte ita n desu ne.Misaki, you knew about that news, didn't you?
- 美咲 Misakiはい、とても重要なことですから。Hai, totemo jūyō na koto desu kara.Yes, because it is a very important matter.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 弱者, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
