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B1 noun #8,500 am häufigsten 10 Min. Lesezeit

毒蛇

dokuja Top 8,500

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At the A1 level, you should focus on the basic meaning of 'dokuhebi' as 'poison snake.' You likely already know the word 'hebi' (snake). Adding 'doku' (poison) creates this compound. At this stage, you don't need to worry about the 'dokuja' reading. Just remember that 'dokuhebi' is a 'scary snake' (kowai hebi). You might see this word in basic picture books or on warning signs near parks. Think of it as: Doku (Bad/Poison) + Hebi (Snake) = Dangerous animal. Use it in simple sentences like 'Dokuhebi wa kowai desu' (Poisonous snakes are scary). Focus on recognizing the kanji for 'poison' (毒) because it appears in many other safety-related words you will learn later.

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At the A2 level, you can start using 'dokuhebi' in more descriptive sentences. You should understand the difference between a regular snake (hebi) and a poisonous one. You can use the existence verb 'imasu' to talk about where they are: 'Yama ni dokuhebi ga imasu' (There are poisonous snakes in the mountains). You should also learn the basic counter for animals, 'hiki,' so you can say 'dokuhebi ga ippiki imasu' (there is one poisonous snake). At this level, you might encounter the word in simple news stories or weather/nature reports. You should be able to understand a basic warning like 'Dokuhebi ni chuui shite kudasai' (Please be careful of poisonous snakes).

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As a B1 learner, you should be comfortable with both readings: 'dokuhebi' for daily life and 'dokuja' for more formal or literary contexts. You should be able to use the passive voice to describe accidents, such as 'dokuhebi ni kamareta' (was bitten by a poisonous snake). You should also begin to understand the metaphorical use of the word to describe a person's character or a 'poisonous' atmosphere. This level requires you to know that 'dokuja' can be used as a simile (dokuja no you na...). You should also be aware of specific Japanese poisonous snakes like the 'Mamushi' and how 'dokuhebi' serves as the category name for them. Your vocabulary should include related words like 'dokuso' (venom) and 'kiba' (fangs).

At the B2 level, you should understand the nuance of using 'dokuja' in literature and formal documentaries. You should be able to discuss the ecological impact of venomous snakes or the medical process of creating antivenom using the word 'dokuja.' You should also be able to identify the word in idioms or complex metaphors. For example, understanding how a character in a novel might be described as a 'dokuja' to imply they are waiting for the perfect moment to strike. Your grammar should allow you to create complex sentences like 'If I hadn't worn thick boots, I might have been bitten by a poisonous snake' (Atsui kutsu wo haite inakereba, dokuhebi ni kamarete ita kamoshirenai). You should also recognize the word in historical contexts or myths.

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At the C1 level, you should have a deep appreciation for the cultural and historical weight of the word 'dokuja.' You can analyze its use in classical literature or modern psychological thrillers. You should understand the subtle difference in 'feeling' between the 'ja' and 'hebi' readings and choose the one that fits the register of your speech or writing perfectly. You can use the word in academic discussions about herpetology or in sophisticated social critiques. You should also be familiar with related proverbs or obscure idioms that involve venomous serpents. Your ability to use 'dokuja' metaphorically should be native-like, using it to describe complex political situations or treacherous social dynamics with precision.

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At the C2 level, 'dokuja' is a tool for mastery. You can use it to evoke specific imagery in creative writing, drawing on its long history in Japanese folklore and Buddhist allegories (where snakes often represent jealousy or anger). You should be able to debate the nuances of translation—for instance, when 'dokuja' should be translated as 'serpent' versus 'snake' to maintain the tone of a text. You understand the word's place in the broader lexicon of 'doku' (poison) related terms and can use it to create puns or sophisticated wordplay. Your understanding is not just linguistic but also deeply cultural, recognizing how the image of the 'dokuja' has evolved from a feared forest predator to a symbol of human malice in the modern Japanese psyche.

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毒蛇 in 30 Sekunden

Dokuhebi/Dokuja refers to any venomous snake species.
Commonly used in safety warnings and nature documentaries.
Can be used metaphorically for a treacherous or malicious person.
The kanji combines 'poison' (毒) and 'snake' (蛇).

The Japanese word 毒蛇 (pronounced as either dokuhebi or dokuja) is a compound noun that literally translates to 'poison snake' or 'venomous serpent.' In a linguistic sense, it combines the kanji for 'poison' (毒) and 'snake' (蛇). While the term is primarily used in a biological context to identify reptiles that possess venomous glands, its usage extends far beyond simple taxonomy into the realms of metaphor, literature, and daily warnings. When you hear this word in Japan, it often carries an immediate sense of danger and visceral fear, reflecting the natural reality of Japan's wilderness where species like the mamushi or habu reside. However, it is also a powerful literary device used to describe people with treacherous, 'poisonous' personalities—those who strike without warning or harbor deep-seated malice.

Biological Classification: In scientific or educational settings, dokuja is the preferred reading. It refers to any member of the suborder Serpentes that can produce toxins for defense or hunting. This includes vipers, cobras, and sea snakes. In common conversation, dokuhebi is more frequent when warning someone about a specific animal they might encounter while hiking.
Metaphorical Malice: Similar to the English 'snake in the grass,' calling someone a dokuja implies they are not just untrustworthy, but actively harmful. It suggests a person who uses 'poisonous' words to ruin reputations or someone who hides their lethal intentions behind a calm exterior.

山道で毒蛇に遭遇したときは、決して刺激してはいけません。(When you encounter a poisonous snake on a mountain path, you must never provoke it.)

Understanding the nuance between the two readings is crucial for an intermediate learner. The reading dokuhebi is what you would shout if you saw a snake in your garden; it is immediate, grounded, and descriptive. The reading dokuja, on the other hand, sounds more sophisticated, almost legendary. It is the word found in historical texts, myths, and high-level literature. If you are watching a nature documentary, the narrator will almost certainly use dokuja to describe the ecological role of the species, whereas a local farmer warning you about the rice fields will say dokuhebi.

彼女の言葉はまるで毒蛇のように、彼の心を深く傷つけた。(Her words, like a venomous serpent, deeply wounded his heart.)

Common Contexts: 1. Wildlife warnings at trailheads.
2. Medical discussions regarding antivenom (dokuja-dokuso).
3. Character descriptions in 'Jidaigeki' (period dramas) describing a treacherous villain.

Using 毒蛇 correctly involves understanding its grammatical placement as a noun and the specific verbs that usually accompany it. Because it refers to a living creature, it is often the subject of verbs of existence like iru (there is) or verbs of action like k噛む (to bite) and madoi (to coil). However, the most common grammatical construction for learners to master is the passive 'to be bitten by a poisonous snake,' which utilizes the particle に followed by the passive verb 噛まれる (kamareru).

Subject Marker (Ga): When identifying the presence of the snake: Kono mori ni wa dokuhebi ga imasu. (There are poisonous snakes in this forest.) Here, 'ga' marks the snake as the entity that exists.
Passive Construction (Ni ... Kamareru): To describe an accident: Kare wa dokuhebi ni kamareta. (He was bitten by a poisonous snake.) This is the most frequent way to describe the interaction in a narrative or news report.

キャンプに行くなら、毒蛇の対策をしっかりしておくべきだ。(If you are going camping, you should prepare thoroughly for poisonous snakes.)

In metaphorical usage, dokuja is often treated as a simile using no you na (like a) or no you ni (in the manner of). For instance, describing a person's gaze: Dokuja no you na me (Eyes like a venomous snake). This implies a cold, calculating, and predatory look. When used as a direct metaphor (calling someone a snake), it functions as a strong insult, usually reserved for characters in fiction or intense emotional outbursts in real life.

その毒蛇は非常に強力な神経毒を持っている。(That venomous snake possesses an extremely powerful neurotoxin.)

Objective Marker (Wo): When acting upon the snake: Dokuhebi wo tsukamaeru (To catch a poisonous snake). Used by experts or in survival scenarios.

When writing about dokuja, it is important to remember that it is a 'count' concept in English but follows Japanese counter rules. You use hiki (匹) for snakes. For example, dokuhebi ippiki (one poisonous snake). Using the wrong counter is a common mistake for learners. Additionally, in formal writing (B1 level and above), the distinction between 'venomous' (injects toxins) and 'poisonous' (harmful if eaten) is often blurred into this single word, though 'venomous' is usually the intended meaning.

In modern Japan, the word 毒蛇 is most frequently encountered in three distinct spheres: safety warnings in rural areas, educational media, and dramatic storytelling. Despite Japan being highly urbanized, the mountainous regions are home to various venomous species, making the word a staple of local signage and community safety broadcasts during the warmer months.

Outdoor Safety Signs: At the entrance of hiking trails in prefectures like Nagano or Shizuoka, you will often see signs that read 'Dokuhebi ni chuui!' (Beware of poisonous snakes!). These signs usually feature an illustration of a coiled snake to ensure the message is clear even to those who cannot read the kanji.
Documentaries and Museums: When visiting the 'Habu Museum' in Okinawa or watching NHK nature specials, the term dokuja is used as the formal biological term. You will hear experts discuss dokuja no seitai (the ecology of venomous snakes) or the process of extracting dokuso (venom).

「この辺りは毒蛇が出るから、草むらには入らないで」と祖父が言った。("Poisonous snakes appear around here, so don't go into the tall grass," my grandfather said.)

In the world of entertainment—specifically anime, manga, and video games—dokuja is a frequent motif. Villains are often compared to snakes, and their special moves might be named after them. For example, a character might have a 'Dokuja-ken' (Venomous Snake Fist) style of fighting. In these contexts, the word evokes a sense of stealth, lethality, and ancient power. It is rarely used for 'cute' snakes; for those, people just use hebi or specific breed names.

ニュース番組で、公園に毒蛇が捨てられていたという事件が報じられた。(The news program reported an incident where a poisonous snake had been abandoned in a park.)

Finally, you might hear this word in medical or emergency settings. If someone is rushed to the hospital after a bite, the first question asked will be 'Dokuhebi desu ka?' (Was it a poisonous snake?). In this life-or-death context, the word is used with extreme clinical urgency. Knowing the word could literally be a lifesaver in an emergency situation in the Japanese countryside.

While 毒蛇 seems straightforward, English speakers often stumble on its pronunciation, its kanji composition, and its specific cultural usage. One of the most common errors is confusing the two readings dokuja and dokuhebi in inappropriate contexts, or mispronouncing the 'ja' sound as 'ya'.

Confusing 'Doku' and 'Poisonous': In English, we distinguish between 'venomous' (they bite you) and 'poisonous' (you eat them). In Japanese, doku covers both. However, a common mistake is using the word yuudoku (toxic) when referring to a snake. While yuudoku-na hebi is grammatically correct, it sounds unnatural. Stick to dokuhebi for the animal itself.
Kanji Stroke Order and Components: The kanji for snake (蛇) contains the 'insect' radical (虫) on the left. Many learners mistakenly think snakes should have a 'fish' or 'lizard' radical. Remembering that ancient Chinese/Japanese classification grouped snakes with 'creepy crawlies' (mushi) helps avoid this writing error.

❌ Incorrect: あの人は毒な蛇だ。(Ano hito wa doku-na hebi da.)
✅ Correct: あの人は毒蛇のような男だ。(Ano hito wa dokuja no you na otoko da.)

Another subtle mistake is the overuse of the word. In Japan, if you see a snake that isn't clearly a mamushi, people will usually just say hebi. Calling every snake a dokuhebi can cause unnecessary panic. It's better to say 'Hebi ga iru!' first, then clarify if it's poisonous. Additionally, learners often forget the counter hiki and try to use tsu or ko, which sounds very childish or uneducated.

❌ Incorrect: 毒蛇を一回見ました。(I saw a poisonous snake one time/occurrence.)
✅ Correct: 毒蛇を一匹見ました。(I saw one poisonous snake.)

Finally, avoid using dokuhebi as a 'cool' nickname for yourself or others unless you want to sound like a cartoon villain. While 'Snake' might be a cool name in English (like Solid Snake), Dokuhebi is almost exclusively negative in Japanese culture, associated with betrayal and lethal danger rather than stealthy heroism.

While 毒蛇 is the general term for any venomous snake, Japanese has several more specific words that are used depending on the species, the level of danger, or the register of the conversation. Understanding these alternatives will make your Japanese sound more natural and precise.

蛇 (Hebi) - The General Term: This is the base word for 'snake.' Use this if you aren't sure if the snake is poisonous. It is the most neutral and common term.
マムシ (Mamushi) - The Specific Danger: The Japanese Pit Viper. This is the most common dokuhebi in mainland Japan. In rural areas, people will say 'Mamushi ni ki wo tsukete' (Watch out for Mamushi) rather than using the general word dokuhebi.
大蛇 (Orochi / Daija) - The Mythical Serpent: While not necessarily 'poisonous' in the biological sense, orochi refers to giant, often monstrous snakes from folklore. If a dokuja is a biological threat, an orochi is a legendary one.

比較：
1. 庭に蛇がいた。(There was a snake in the garden - Neutral)
2. 庭に毒蛇がいた。(There was a poisonous snake in the garden - Alarmist/Specific)
3. 庭にマムシがいた。(There was a Mamushi in the garden - Highly specific/Local)

In a metaphorical sense, if you want to describe someone as dangerous but don't want to use the word for snake, you might use 危険人物 (kiken jinbutsu - dangerous person) or 曲者 (kusemono - tricky/suspicious person). However, dokuja remains the most evocative term for someone whose 'venom' (malice) is hidden. Another related term is 毒舌 (dokuzetsu), which literally means 'poison tongue' and refers to someone who makes sharp, biting, or sarcastic remarks—a 'poisonous' speaker.

For those interested in Okinawa, the word ハブ (Habu) is essential. It is a specific type of large dokuhebi found in the Ryukyu Islands. In Okinawa, 'Habu' is used almost exclusively over 'dokuhebi' because of the snake's cultural and predatory dominance in the local environment.

How Formal Is It?

Wusstest du?

In ancient Japan, snakes were often seen as messengers of the gods (Kami), but the 'doku' prefix was added to distinguish those that brought death rather than blessings.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈdɒkʊˌdʒɑː/

US /ˈdoʊkuˌdʒɑː/

Flat pitch accent (Heiban) for 'Dokuhebi', with a slight drop after 'ku' in some dialects.

Reimt sich auf

Kokuja (black snake) Mokuja (wooden snake - rare) Rakuja (falling snake - very rare) Dokuhebi (rhymes with 'ebi' - shrimp) Sekihebi (stone snake) Akahebi (red snake) Aohebi (green snake) Yamahebi (mountain snake)

Häufige Fehler

Pronouncing 'ja' as 'ya'.
Confusing the pitch accent with 'doku' (reading).
Elongating the 'u' in 'doku' too much.
Pronouncing 'hebi' as 'he-bai'.
Missing the 'k' sound in 'doku'.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 3/5

The kanji for 'hebi' is complex but common enough for B1 learners.

Schreiben 4/5

Writing 'hebi' (蛇) from memory can be challenging due to the strokes in the right-hand part.

Sprechen 2/5

Pronunciation is simple, but choosing between 'dokuhebi' and 'dokuja' requires nuance.

Hören 2/5

Easily recognizable once the 'doku' prefix is known.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

蛇 (Hebi) 毒 (Doku) 虫 (Mushi) 怖い (Kowai) 噛む (Kamu)

Als Nächstes lernen

毒素 (Dokuso) 血清 (Kessei) 爬虫類 (Hachuuryui) 猛毒 (Moudoku) 牙 (Kiba)

Fortgeschritten

蛇行 (Dakou) 蛇足 (Dasoku) 竜頭蛇尾 (Ryuutou-dabi) 排外主義 (Haigaishugi - unrelated but similarly complex kanji)

Wichtige Grammatik

Passive Voice (~れる/られる)

毒蛇に噛まれました。

Similes with 'No You Na'

毒蛇のような目。

Counters for Animals (Hiki)

毒蛇を一匹見つけた。

Existence Verbs (Imasu)

庭に毒蛇がいます。

Conditional 'Tara'

毒蛇を見たら、逃げなさい。

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Beispiele nach Niveau

あそこに毒蛇がいます。

There is a poisonous snake over there.

Uses 'imasu' for the existence of an animal.

毒蛇はこわいです。

Poisonous snakes are scary.

Simple A is B sentence structure.

これは毒蛇ですか？

Is this a poisonous snake?

Question form using 'desu ka'.

赤い毒蛇を見ました。

I saw a red poisonous snake.

Adjective + Noun + Object marker 'wo'.

毒蛇にさわらないでください。

Please do not touch the poisonous snake.

Negative request using '~naide kudasai'.

山には毒蛇がいます。

There are poisonous snakes in the mountains.

Location particle 'ni' + existence.

毒蛇のえさは何ですか？

What is the poisonous snake's food?

Possessive particle 'no'.

大きな毒蛇がいました。

There was a big poisonous snake.

Past tense of 'imasu' is 'imashita'.

その毒蛇はとても長いです。

That poisonous snake is very long.

Uses 'sono' (that) and 'totemo' (very).

草むらの中に毒蛇が隠れています。

A poisonous snake is hiding in the tall grass.

Verb 'kakureru' (to hide) in te-form.

毒蛇に噛まれないように気をつけて。

Be careful not to be bitten by a poisonous snake.

Uses 'youni' to indicate a goal or precaution.

この森には二匹の毒蛇がいます。

There are two poisonous snakes in this forest.

Uses the counter 'hiki' for animals.

毒蛇の毒はとても強いです。

The venom of the poisonous snake is very strong.

Focus on 'doku' (poison/venom) as a noun.

昨日、毒蛇のニュースを見ました。

I saw a news report about a poisonous snake yesterday.

Time adverb 'kinou' (yesterday).

毒蛇は夜に動きます。

Poisonous snakes move at night.

Time particle 'ni' for 'yoru' (night).

彼は毒蛇を捕まえることができます。

He can catch poisonous snakes.

Potential form 'koto ga dekiru'.

毒蛇に噛まれたら、すぐに病院へ行ってください。

If you are bitten by a poisonous snake, please go to the hospital immediately.

Conditional 'tara' + passive voice.

彼は毒蛇のような鋭い目で私を見た。

He looked at me with sharp eyes like a venomous snake.

Metaphorical use with 'no you na'.

この地域に生息する毒蛇について調べています。

I am researching the venomous snakes that inhabit this area.

Relative clause 'seisoku suru dokuja'.

毒蛇の牙には、獲物を麻痺させる毒があります。

In the fangs of a venomous snake, there is poison that paralyzes prey.

Causative/Attribute clause 'mahi saseru'.

古い物語には、恐ろしい毒蛇が登場します。

In old stories, a terrifying venomous serpent appears.

Verb 'toujou suru' (to appear/make an entrance).

靴の中に毒蛇が入っていないか確認した。

I checked to see if there wasn't a poisonous snake inside my shoe.

Indirect question 'ka kakunin suru'.

毒蛇に遭遇した時の対処法を知っていますか？

Do you know the counter-measures for when you encounter a venomous snake?

Noun 'taishohou' (method of handling).

キャンプ場に毒蛇注意の看板が立っていた。

There was a 'Beware of poisonous snakes' sign standing at the campsite.

Compound noun 'dokuhebi-chuui'.

血清を作るためには、まず毒蛇から毒を採取しなければならない。

In order to create antivenom, one must first collect venom from the venomous snake.

Purpose 'tame ni' + obligation 'nakereba naranai'.

その政治家は毒蛇のごとき執念深さで政敵を追い詰めた。

That politician cornered his rivals with the tenacity of a venomous serpent.

Literary simile 'no gotoki' (like/as).

毒蛇の毒素が神経系に及ぼす影響は極めて深刻だ。

The effects that a venomous snake's toxins have on the nervous system are extremely serious.

Formal noun 'eikyou' (influence/effect).

この島には外来種の毒蛇が持ち込まれ、生態系が破壊された。

Invasive species of venomous snakes were brought to this island, destroying the ecosystem.

Passive voice 'mochikomare' + 'hakai sareta'.

彼は毒蛇の攻撃を間一髪でかわした。

He dodged the venomous snake's attack at the very last second.

Idiom 'kan-ippatsu' (by a hair's breadth).

毒蛇の色彩は、外敵に対する警戒色としての役割を果たしている。

The coloring of venomous snakes plays a role as warning coloration against predators.

Formal phrase 'yakuwari wo hatashite iru'.

その映画の悪役は、毒蛇のような冷酷な性格設定だった。

The villain of that movie was characterized by a cold-hearted personality like a venomous serpent.

Compound 'seikaku-settei' (character setting).

万が一、毒蛇に噛まれた場合に備えて、携帯電話を持っておくべきだ。

In the unlikely event that you are bitten by a poisonous snake, you should carry a cell phone.

Phrase 'man-ichi' (just in case/one in ten thousand).

毒蛇の進化の過程を辿ると、環境適応の驚異的な側面が見えてくる。

Tracing the evolutionary process of venomous snakes reveals astonishing aspects of environmental adaptation.

Formal verb 'tadoru' (to trace).

彼女の心に住む毒蛇が、嫉妬という名の毒を吐き散らした。

The venomous serpent living in her heart spat out the poison known as jealousy.

High-level metaphor 'to iu na no' (by the name of).

毒蛇の毒成分を分析することで、新たな鎮痛剤の開発が期待されている。

By analyzing the venom components of venomous snakes, the development of new painkillers is expected.

Passive expectation 'kitai sarete iru'.

古代エジプトにおいて、毒蛇は王権の象徴として崇められていた。

In ancient Egypt, venomous serpents were worshipped as symbols of royal power.

Historical context 'ni oite' (in/at).

その小説の文体は、読者の意識を毒蛇のように締め付ける緊張感に満ちていた。

The style of that novel was filled with a tension that constricted the reader's consciousness like a serpent.

Descriptive 'ni michite ita' (was full of).

毒蛇の生息域の拡大は、地球温暖化と密接に関連しているとの指摘がある。

It has been pointed out that the expansion of venomous snake habitats is closely related to global warming.

Formal report style 'to no shiteki ga aru'.

彼は毒蛇の如き冷徹さで、会社の不採算部門を次々と切り捨てた。

With a cold-bloodedness like a venomous serpent, he cut off the company's unprofitable departments one after another.

Adverbial 'no gotoki' usage.

宗教的儀式の中で毒蛇を扱う行為は、多くの文化圏で見られる。

The act of handling venomous snakes within religious rituals is seen in many cultural spheres.

Formal 'bunka-ken' (cultural sphere).

毒蛇の毒は、生命の根源を脅かす死のメタファーとして文学史に君臨し続けてきた。

The venom of the serpent has continued to reign in literary history as a metaphor for death that threatens the very source of life.

Advanced verb 'kunrin suru' (to reign).

その劇作家は、人間の業を毒蛇の絡み合いに例えて描写した。

The playwright depicted human karma by likening it to the intertwining of venomous serpents.

Abstract concept 'human karma' (ningen no gou).

毒蛇の毒素が持つ分子構造の複雑さは、現代科学の粋を集めても未だ全容解明には至っていない。

The complexity of the molecular structure of venomous snake toxins has not yet been fully elucidated, even with the best of modern science.

Idiom 'sui wo atsumete mo' (even gathering the best of).

権力への渇望は、時に人を毒蛇へと変貌させる狂気を孕んでいる。

The thirst for power sometimes harbors a madness that transforms a person into a venomous serpent.

Literary verb 'haramu' (to harbor/be pregnant with).

毒蛇の擬態と攻撃の瞬発力は、自然界における究極の機能美と言えるだろう。

The mimicry and explosive striking power of venomous snakes could be called the ultimate functional beauty in the natural world.

Rhetorical 'ieru darou' (can be said).

その外交官の言葉は、表向きは友好的だが、裏には毒蛇の牙が隠されていた。

The diplomat's words were friendly on the surface, but the fangs of a venomous serpent were hidden beneath.

Contrast 'omote-muki' vs 'ura'.

毒蛇という存在が喚起する根源的な恐怖は、人類の遺伝子に刻み込まれているのかもしれない。

The primal fear evoked by the existence of venomous snakes might be carved into the very genes of humanity.

Psychological/Scientific 'kizamikomarete iru'.

法治国家において、私刑は社会を蝕む毒蛇の毒に等しい。

In a constitutional state, lynching is equivalent to the venom of a serpent that erodes society.

Logical equivalence 'ni hitoshii'.

Häufige Kollokationen

毒蛇に噛まれる

毒蛇の牙

毒蛇の毒

毒蛇注意

毒蛇の猛威

毒蛇使い

毒蛇のような目

毒蛇の生息地

毒蛇を退治する

毒蛇の血清

Häufige Phrasen

毒蛇に噛まれて死ぬ

— To die from a poisonous snake bite.

昔、この村で毒蛇に噛まれて死んだ人がいた。

毒蛇の口

— The mouth of a venomous snake; often used to describe a dangerous situation.

彼は毒蛇の口に飛び込むような真似をした。

毒蛇の卵

— Poisonous snake egg; often used metaphorically for the beginning of something evil.

それはまさに毒蛇の卵だった。

毒蛇が這う

— A poisonous snake crawls.

足元を毒蛇が這っていった。

毒蛇を飼う

— To keep a poisonous snake (as a pet or for study).

彼は自宅で毒蛇を飼っている。

毒蛇の皮

— Poisonous snake skin.

毒蛇の皮で作られた財布。

毒蛇の気配

— The presence/sign of a poisonous snake.

草むらから毒蛇の気配がした。

毒蛇を避ける

— To avoid poisonous snakes.

毒蛇を避けるために道を外れない。

毒蛇の毒素

— The toxin of a poisonous snake.

毒蛇の毒素は神経を麻痺させる。

毒蛇の攻撃

— An attack by a poisonous snake.

毒蛇の攻撃は一瞬だった。

Wird oft verwechselt mit

毒蛇 vs 毒虫 (Dokumushi)

Refers to poisonous insects. While snakes aren't insects, people sometimes group them under 'scary poisonous things'.

毒蛇 vs 青大将 (Aodaisho)

A common large Japanese snake that is NOT poisonous. People often mistake it for a dokuhebi.

毒蛇 vs 読者 (Dokusha)

Sounds similar but means 'reader'. Pay attention to the 'ja' vs 'sha' sound.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"蛇に睨まれた蛙"

— Like a frog stared at by a snake; to be paralyzed with fear.

上司の前に出ると、彼は蛇に睨まれた蛙のようになる。

Common

"藪をつついて蛇を出す"

— To poke a bush and let out a snake; to cause unnecessary trouble by meddling.

余計なことを言って、藪をつついて蛇を出してしまった。

Common

"蛇の道は蛇"

— The path of a snake is known to a snake; 'set a thief to catch a thief' or specialists know their own kind.

犯罪者の心理は、蛇の道は蛇で、彼に聞くのが一番だ。

Common

"毒を食らわば皿まで"

— If you eat poison, lick the plate too; if you've started something bad, finish it completely.

もう嘘をついたんだ、毒を食らわば皿まで最後まで突き通そう。

Common

"蛇足"

— Snake legs; something superfluous or unnecessary.

この説明にこれ以上の言葉を加えるのは蛇足だ。

Formal

"長蛇の列"

— A long snake-like line; a very long queue.

ラーメン屋の前に長蛇の列ができている。

Common

"竜頭蛇尾"

— Dragon head, snake tail; starting strong but ending weak.

彼の計画は竜頭蛇尾に終わった。

Formal/Idiom

"蛇の生殺し"

— Keeping a snake half-alive; to keep someone in a state of suspense or half-finished misery.

返事を引き延ばすのは蛇の生殺しだ。

Common

"懐に蛇を飼う"

— To keep a snake in one's bosom; to harbor someone who will eventually betray you.

あの男を雇うのは懐に蛇を飼うようなものだ。

Literary

"一蛇横たわる"

— A single snake lying across; an obstacle in the way.

我々の前には一蛇横たわっている。

Archaic

Leicht verwechselbar

毒蛇 vs 蛇 (Hebi)

It's the general term.

Hebi is any snake; Dokuhebi is specifically poisonous.

これはただの蛇で、毒蛇ではありません。

毒蛇 vs 有毒 (Yuudoku)

Both mean poisonous.

Yuudoku is an adjective for substances; Dokuhebi is the noun for the animal.

このヘビは有毒です。

毒蛇 vs 猛毒 (Moudoku)

Both relate to poison.

Moudoku means 'deadly poison' or 'highly toxic'.

その毒蛇は猛毒を持っている。

毒蛇 vs トカゲ (Tokage)

Both are reptiles.

Tokage means lizard (has legs).

それは毒蛇ではなくトカゲです。

毒蛇 vs マムシ (Mamushi)

Often used interchangeably in Japan.

Mamushi is one specific type of dokuhebi.

マムシは日本で最も有名な毒蛇だ。

Satzmuster

[Place] に [Noun] がいます。

森に毒蛇がいます。

[Noun] に気をつけてください。

毒蛇に気をつけてください。

[Noun] に [Verb-Passive]。

毒蛇に噛まれた。

[Noun] のような [Noun]。

毒蛇のような人。

[Noun] は [Property] を持っている。

毒蛇は強力な毒を持っている。

[Verb-Condition], [Result]。

毒蛇に噛まれたら、死ぬかもしれない。

[Noun] のごとき [Noun]。

毒蛇のごとき執念。

[Noun] という存在は [Abstract Concept] だ。

毒蛇という存在は死の象徴だ。

Wortfamilie

Substantive

毒 (Doku - Poison)

蛇 (Hebi - Snake)

毒素 (Dokuso - Toxin)

毒液 (Dokueki - Venomous fluid)

Verben

毒する (Dokusuru - To poison/corrupt)

蛇行する (Dakou suru - To meander/zigzag)

Adjektive

毒々しい (Dokudokushii - Poisonous-looking/Venomous)

有毒な (Yuudoku na - Toxic)

Verwandt

爬虫類 (Hachuuryui - Reptiles)

脱皮 (Dappi - Shedding skin)

牙 (Kiba - Fangs)

血清 (Kessei - Serum/Antivenom)

捕獲 (Hokaku - Capture)

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frequency

Medium (Common in summer/rural areas/fiction).

Häufige Fehler

Using 'doku na hebi' → dokuhebi
You cannot use 'na' to connect these; they form a compound noun.
Counting with 'ko' → ippiki, nihiki
Animals must use the 'hiki' counter.
Mispronouncing 'ja' as 'ya' → dokuja
The 'j' sound is strong, like 'jump'.
Confusing 'dokuja' with 'dokusha' → dokuja
'Dokusha' means reader. 'Dokuja' means snake.
Using 'dokuja' for a pet snake → hebi
Even if it's poisonous, 'hebi' is more natural for a pet unless you're emphasizing the danger.

Tipps

Passive Bite

Always use 'ni kamareta' for being bitten. Using 'wo' would mean you bit the snake!

Okinawa Warning

If you go to Okinawa, learn the word 'Habu'. It's more common than 'dokuhebi' there.

Radical Check

The left side of 蛇 is 虫 (insect). Don't forget the bottom horizontal stroke of 毒.

Metaphor usage

Only use 'dokuja' for people in fiction or very serious arguments.

Signage

Look for yellow or red signs with the kanji 毒蛇 near hiking trails.

Reading Choice

If you are reading a biology textbook, read it as 'dokuja'.

Doku-Doctor

Doctors treat poison. Doku = Poison. Hebi = Snake.

Pitch Accent

Listen to how NHK announcers say 'dokuja' with a flat, serious tone.

Stroke Order

The kanji 蛇 has 11 strokes. Practice the right side carefully.

Nature

In nature contexts, 'dokuhebi' is often paired with 'chuui' (caution).

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of 'Doku' as 'Doctor' (who deals with poison) and 'Hebi' as 'Heavy' (a heavy snake is dangerous). A 'Doctor-Heavy' is a Poison Snake.

Visuelle Assoziation

Visualize a snake with a purple 'Poison' bottle (the kanji 毒 often looks like a skull and crossbones in modern stylized versions) wrapped around its neck.

Word Web

Poison Venom Fang Bite Crawl Forest Danger Reptile

Herausforderung

Try to find a picture of a Japanese 'Mamushi' and write three sentences about it using the word 毒蛇.

Wortherkunft

The word is a Sinitic compound (Kango) consisting of two Chinese characters. 'Doku' (毒) originally depicted a mother/woman with a harmful plant, signifying poison. 'Hebi/Ja' (蛇) includes the 'insect/worm' radical, as pre-modern classifications grouped all crawling creatures together.

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: Literally 'Poisonous crawling creature.'

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Kultureller Kontext

Be careful when calling someone a 'dokuja' as it is a very strong personal insult, much stronger than 'liar' or 'jerk'.

English speakers often use 'snake' to mean a liar; Japanese uses 'dokuja' specifically to emphasize the 'poisonous' or harmful nature of the betrayal.

Yamata no Orochi (Mythology) Orochimaru (Naruto - uses snake motifs) Medusa (Western reference often translated using 'dokuja' imagery)

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Hiking/Outdoors

足元に気をつけて (Watch your step)
毒蛇が出る (Snakes appear)
草むらを避ける (Avoid grass)
長靴を履く (Wear boots)

Hospital/Emergency

蛇に噛まれた (Bitten by a snake)
毒はありますか？ (Is it poisonous?)
血清が必要だ (Need antivenom)
患部を冷やす (Cool the area)

Biology Class

爬虫類の研究 (Reptile research)
毒素の成分 (Toxin components)
生態系 (Ecosystem)
生息域 (Habitat)

Literature/Drama

悪役の比喩 (Villain metaphor)
冷酷な目 (Cold eyes)
裏切り (Betrayal)
毒蛇の如く (Like a serpent)

Okinawa Travel

ハブに注意 (Watch for Habu)
ハブ酒 (Habu sake)
森の危険 (Forest dangers)
ガイドの指示 (Guide's instructions)

Gesprächseinstiege

"日本にはどんな毒蛇がいますか？ (What kind of poisonous snakes are in Japan?)"

"毒蛇に噛まれたことがありますか？ (Have you ever been bitten by a poisonous snake?)"

"毒蛇と普通の蛇、どうやって見分けますか？ (How do you tell a poisonous snake from a normal one?)"

"毒蛇をペットにする人をどう思いますか？ (What do you think of people who keep poisonous snakes as pets?)"

"あなたの国で一番危険な毒蛇は何ですか？ (What is the most dangerous poisonous snake in your country?)"

Tagebuch-Impulse

もし森で毒蛇に遭遇したら、あなたならどうしますか？ (If you encountered a poisonous snake in the forest, what would you do?)

「毒蛇のような人」という言葉から、どんな性格を想像しますか？ (What kind of personality do you imagine from the phrase 'a person like a poisonous snake'?)

毒蛇の毒が薬になることについて、あなたの意見を書いてください。 (Write your opinion about poisonous snake venom being used as medicine.)

子供の頃、蛇や毒蛇に対してどんなイメージを持っていましたか？ (What kind of image did you have of snakes or poisonous snakes as a child?)

自然界における毒蛇の役割について考えてみましょう。 (Let's think about the role of poisonous snakes in the natural world.)

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

In daily conversation, 'dokuhebi' is much more common. 'Dokuja' is used in formal writing, science, and literature.

The Mamushi and the Habu (in Okinawa) are the most dangerous and well-known venomous snakes in Japan.

Yes, but it is very insulting. It implies the person is treacherous, sneaky, and harmful.

Use the counter 'hiki'. One snake is 'ippiki', two is 'nihiki', three is 'sanbiki'.

Japanese generally uses 'doku' for both. If you must specify 'venomous' (injected), you might use 'dokueki' (venomous liquid).

Yes, the 'doku' (毒) kanji is essential to indicate the snake is poisonous.

Usually no. White snakes are often Aodaisho (non-venomous) and are considered lucky in Japan.

You can say 'hebi ni kamareta ato' (mark of a bite) or the medical term 'dokuja-koushou'.

It is very rare in central Tokyo, but they can be found in the mountainous western suburbs like Okutama.

Shout 'Dokuhebi!' or just 'Hebi!' to alert others.

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