At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '弾圧' (dan'atsu) in your own speaking yet, as it is a very advanced and serious word. However, it is good to know that it means 'suppression' or 'stopping people by force.' Think of it like this: if a king tells everyone they are not allowed to speak and uses his soldiers to stop them, that is 'dan'atsu.' It is a word you might see in history books or on the news. The word is made of two parts: 'dan' (force/bullet) and 'atsu' (pressure). Just remember that it is a 'bad' thing that happens when powerful people are too mean to others. You won't use it to talk about your friends or family. It is only for big, serious things like governments and history.
By the A2 level, you should recognize '弾圧' (dan'atsu) as a formal noun used in serious contexts. It means 'suppression' or 'crackdown.' You might hear it in a simple news report or see it in a basic history lesson. It is often used with the verb 'suru' (to do), making it 'dan'atsu suru' (to suppress). For example, 'The government suppressed the protest' would be 'Seifu wa demo wo dan'atsu shita.' You should distinguish it from simpler words like 'dame' (bad) or 'yamete' (stop). This word is specifically about authority figures using power to stop people from doing or saying what they want. It is a 'kango' (Chinese-origin word), which means it sounds very formal and official.
At the B1 level, you should be able to understand '弾圧' when reading news articles or watching documentaries. You should understand the grammatical structure [Target] を 弾圧する and the passive form [Target] が 弾圧される. You should also start to see the difference between 'dan'atsu' and other 'pressure' words. For example, 'appaku' is physical or economic pressure, but 'dan'atsu' is political suppression. At this level, you might use it in a structured essay about history or global issues. It is important to note that this word often has a negative connotation, implying that the suppression is unfair or a violation of rights. You will frequently see it combined with words like 'genron' (speech) or 'shūkyō' (religion).
At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the nuances of '弾圧.' You should understand that it implies a systematic and forceful effort to eliminate dissent. You will encounter this word in complex texts about political science, sociology, and law. You should be able to use it correctly in discussions about human rights or historical events like the 'Ansei Purge.' You should also be familiar with related terms like 'dan'atsu-teki' (suppressive/oppressive) and how they function as adjectives. At this level, you should be careful not to confuse it with 'yokuatsu,' which is more about psychological repression. You can explain the historical impact of 'dan'atsu' in Japan's modernization process using appropriate formal grammar.
For C1 learners, '弾圧' is a word you should use with precision in academic and professional settings. You should be able to discuss the legal frameworks surrounding 'dan'atsu' and the international community's response to it. You will recognize it in high-level literature and editorial pieces. You should understand how it differs from 'seiatsu' (subjugation/control) and 'chin'atsu' (quelling). For instance, 'seiatsu' might be used in a military strategy context to mean gaining control, whereas 'dan'atsu' specifically highlights the suppression of rights or movements. You should be able to analyze the rhetorical use of 'dan'atsu' in political speeches and understand how it is used to frame certain government actions as illegitimate.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like understanding of '弾圧' and its deep historical and social implications. You can use it to discuss abstract concepts like 'the suppression of the subconscious' (though 'yokuatsu' is more common, 'dan'atsu' might be used metaphorically in specific philosophical texts). You are aware of the word's usage in historical archives and its role in shaping Japanese political discourse. You can differentiate between various types of 'dan'atsu'—such as 'soft suppression' through legal bureaucracy versus 'hard suppression' through military force—and use the term accurately in a thesis or a high-level legal debate. You also understand the emotional weight the word carries when used by activists or victims of historical crackdowns.

弾圧 30초 만에

  • 弾圧 (dan'atsu) means suppression or oppression, typically used in political and historical contexts involving the use of force by authority.
  • It is a formal 'kango' word, most often seen in news reports, history textbooks, and academic discussions about human rights.
  • The word is commonly used as a 'suru' verb (弾圧する) to describe the act of cracking down on dissent or movements.
  • Important nuances distinguish it from 'yokuatsu' (psychological repression) and 'chin'atsu' (quelling a specific violent event like a riot).

The Japanese word 弾圧 (だんあつ - dan'atsu) is a powerful and serious term that describes the act of suppression or oppression. When you encounter this word, it is almost always in the context of power dynamics, where a stronger entity—usually a government, military, or authoritarian body—uses force or legal measures to crush dissent, silence ideas, or restrict the movements of a specific group. It is not a word used for light or everyday disagreements; rather, it carries the weight of historical struggles, human rights issues, and political conflict. The first character, 弾 (dan), can mean 'bullet' or 'to bounce/repel,' while the second character, 圧 (atsu), means 'pressure.' Together, they create an image of forceful pressure being applied to push back or eliminate something perceived as a threat.

Political Context
This word is frequently used to describe how a regime might handle protesters or opposition parties. For example, 'the suppression of free speech' is often translated as 言論の弾圧 (genron no dan'atsu).
Historical Context
In Japanese history, you will see this word when learning about the Peace Preservation Law or the crackdown on various social movements during the early 20th century.
Social Movements
When religious groups or minority groups are targeted by the state, the term 弾圧 is applied to describe the systematic nature of the hardship they face.

その国では、政府による激しい弾圧が続いています。(In that country, intense suppression by the government continues.)

歴史の教科書には、宗教的な弾圧の事例が多く載っている。(History textbooks contain many examples of religious suppression.)

In modern news, you will hear this word when reporters discuss international relations or civil unrest. If a news anchor mentions a 'crackdown' on a protest, they are likely using the verb form 弾圧する (dan'atsu suru). It is a formal word (kango) and is rarely used in casual conversation unless discussing serious global events. Understanding this word helps you grasp the gravity of news reports and historical narratives in Japanese culture. It is a cornerstone term for anyone interested in political science, history, or international law from a Japanese perspective.

Grammatically, 弾圧 functions as a noun, but it is most frequently paired with the verb suru (to do) to form 弾圧する (to suppress/oppress). Because it describes an action taken by one party against another, it often follows the pattern: [Entity A] が [Entity B] を 弾圧する. Conversely, when describing the victims, you use the passive form: [Entity B] が [Entity A] に 弾圧される (Entity B is suppressed by Entity A).

Active Voice
軍部は反対勢力を徹底的に弾圧した。(The military thoroughly suppressed the opposition forces.)
Passive Voice
自由な意見が権力によって弾圧されている。(Free opinions are being suppressed by those in power.)
As a Modifier
弾圧的な措置 (Suppressive measures) or 弾圧政治 (Oppressive politics/regime).

独裁者はメディアを弾圧して、自分に都合の良い情報だけを流した。(The dictator suppressed the media and broadcast only information convenient for himself.)

いかなる思想の弾圧も許されるべきではない。(The suppression of any thoughts should not be permitted.)

When using this word, it is important to choose the right level of intensity. If you are talking about a teacher being strict with students, 弾圧 is far too strong. Use it only when the suppression involves a systemic or forceful denial of rights. It is also common to see it in the form of a compound noun, such as 'religious suppression' (宗教弾圧 - shūkyō dan'atsu) or 'political suppression' (政治的弾圧 - seijiteki dan'atsu). These compounds act as single units of meaning in academic writing and journalism.

You are unlikely to hear 弾圧 at a grocery store or a casual dinner party. However, it is a staple of several specific domains. First and foremost is the world of news broadcasting. Whenever there is a story about a 'crackdown' on human rights activists or a 'clampdown' on internet freedom in another country, the reporter will use 弾圧. It provides a tone of objectivity while clearly indicating that force is being used.

News Media
Used in headlines to describe state actions against protesters or journalists.
History Documentaries
Narration about the Edo period's suppression of Christianity or the pre-war crackdown on communism.
Political Activism
Speeches at rallies where people protest against government overreach.

ニュース番組で、「デモ隊への武力弾圧」という言葉が使われた。(The phrase 'armed suppression of protesters' was used on the news program.)

彼はかつて政治的な活動を理由に弾圧を受けた経験がある。(He has experience being suppressed for his political activities in the past.)

Secondly, you will find it in literature and film, particularly those dealing with dystopian themes or war history. In a movie about a rebellion against an evil empire, the 'oppressive' acts of the empire would be described as 弾圧. Because the word is so formal, it can also be used ironically in very specific contexts to exaggerate a small restriction, though this is rare. For the most part, when you hear 弾圧, the speaker is conveying a sense of injustice and the use of power to silence others.

One of the most common mistakes learners make is using 弾圧 for minor or personal situations. For instance, if your boss tells you to work overtime, you shouldn't say you are being 'dan'atsu'ed. That would sound like you are accusing your boss of being a violent dictator. For work-related pressure, 圧迫 (appaku) or 強要 (kyōyō) are much more appropriate.

Confusing with 抑圧 (Yokuatsu)
While similar, 抑圧 (yokuatsu) is often used for psychological repression (e.g., suppressing feelings), whereas 弾圧 is physical or political suppression.
Confusing with 鎮圧 (Chin'atsu)
鎮圧 (chin'atsu) means 'to quell' or 'to put down' a riot or fire. It focuses on restoring order, while 弾圧 focuses on the cruelty or injustice of the suppression.
Misusing Particles
Using 'dan'atsu ni' when you mean 'dan'atsu wo'. Remember: [Victim] を [Action].

❌ 感情を弾圧する。(Suppressing emotions - Incorrect usage of Dan'atsu)

⭕ 反対派のデモを弾圧する。(Suppressing the opposition's protest - Correct usage)

Another mistake is forgetting that 弾圧 is a noun that needs 'suru' to become a verb. You cannot simply say 'dan'atsu' to mean 'to suppress.' Also, be careful with the kanji. The first character 弾 is also used for 'playing a guitar' (hiku), but in this word, it takes on its meaning related to projectiles or forceful impact. Mixing up the kanji for 圧 with similar-looking characters like 庄 or 在 is a common writing error for beginners.

Japanese has several words that overlap with 弾圧, and knowing the nuances between them will make your Japanese sound much more precise. For example, while 弾圧 focuses on the act of suppression, 抑圧 (yokuatsu) is often more internal or societal. If a society suppresses women's rights through culture rather than just laws, 抑圧 might be used. If the government sends police to arrest them, 弾圧 is used.

弾圧 vs. 鎮圧 (Chin'atsu)
弾圧 (suppression) implies an ongoing or ideological attack. 鎮圧 (quelling) is used for stopping a specific violent event, like a riot or a rebellion, to restore peace.
弾圧 vs. 迫害 (Hakugai)
迫害 (persecution) is used specifically when people are targeted for their race, religion, or identity. 弾圧 is more about political movements or ideas.
弾圧 vs. 圧迫 (Appaku)
圧迫 (pressure) is often physical or economic. 'Economic pressure' is 経済的圧迫. It doesn't necessarily imply the intent to silence or destroy, just to weigh down.

暴動は警察によって鎮圧された。(The riot was quelled/suppressed by the police.)

ユダヤ人は歴史を通じて迫害を受けてきた。(Jewish people have faced persecution throughout history.)

When choosing between these words, consider the 'why' and the 'how.' If the goal is to stop a fire or a fight, use 鎮圧. If the goal is to stop a political idea from spreading by using force, use 弾圧. If the goal is to make life miserable for a certain group because of who they are, use 迫害. In academic writing, you might even see the word 制圧 (seiatsu), which means 'to gain control over' a territory or situation by force. Each of these words paints a slightly different picture of power and conflict.

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The character 弾 is the same one used in 'dan-gan' (bullet) and 'hiku' (to play a stringed instrument). It's all about the tension and release of a string or a projectile!

발음 가이드

UK dan.atsu
US dɑn.ɑtsu
The pitch usually starts low on 'da' and rises on 'n-a', then levels off or falls on 'tsu'.
라임이 맞는 단어
Kansatsu (Observation) Inatsu (Not a common word, but fits phonetically) Sansatsu (Three volumes) Zansatsu (Slaughter) Gensatsu (Reduction) Kensatsu (Prosecution) Tensatsu (Not common) Shinsatsu (Medical exam)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'dan' like the English name 'Dan'. It should be a Japanese 'a' sound (ah).
  • Elongating the 'a' in 'atsu'. It is a short vowel.
  • Mixing it up with 'dansatsu' (which isn't a common word).
  • Failing to pronounce the 'n' clearly as a mora.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'u' at the end; it is often whispered.

난이도

독해 4/5

The kanji are N2-N1 level, though the word itself is common in news.

쓰기 5/5

Writing '弾' and '圧' correctly requires practice with stroke order and complexity.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you know the sounds.

듣기 3/5

Easy to hear in news, but must be distinguished from similar-sounding words.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

圧力 (Pressure) 政府 (Government) 反対 (Opposition) 自由 (Freedom) 力 (Force)

다음에 배울 것

抑圧 (Repression) 迫害 (Persecution) 権力 (Power/Authority) 人権 (Human rights) 民主主義 (Democracy)

고급

治安維持法 (Peace Preservation Law) 粛清 (Purge) 独裁 (Dictatorship) 検閲 (Censorship) 覇権 (Hegemony)

알아야 할 문법

Noun + する (Suru Verb)

弾圧する (To suppress)

Passive Voice (〜される)

反対派が弾圧される (The opposition is suppressed)

〜による (By means of / By)

政府による弾圧 (Suppression by the government)

〜に対する (Toward / Against)

少数民族に対する弾圧 (Suppression against ethnic minorities)

〜を理由に (On the grounds of)

治安維持を理由に弾圧する (Suppressing on the grounds of maintaining order)

수준별 예문

1

せいふは、はんたいするひとをだんあつしました。

The government suppressed the people who opposed them.

Uses the basic 'wa' and 'wo' particle structure.

2

だんあつは、とてもこわいことです。

Suppression is a very scary thing.

A1 sentence using 'dan'atsu' as a noun subject.

3

むかしの王さまは、だんあつをしました。

The kings of old did suppression.

Simple past tense 'shita'.

4

じゆうがないのは、だんあつのせいです。

The lack of freedom is because of suppression.

Using 'no sei de' to show cause.

5

だんあつはやめてください。

Please stop the suppression.

Using 'yamete kudasai' for a request.

6

ニュースでだんあつの話をききました。

I heard a story about suppression on the news.

Using 'de' for the location/medium.

7

だんあつはよくないです。

Suppression is not good.

Simple 'A wa B desu' structure.

8

だんあつをうけるひとはかわいそうです。

People who suffer suppression are pitiful.

Using 'ukeru' (to receive/undergo).

1

政府はデモ隊を弾圧しました。

The government suppressed the protesters.

Standard polite past tense 'shimashita'.

2

この国では、自由な意見が弾圧されています。

In this country, free opinions are being suppressed.

Passive continuous form 'sarete imasu'.

3

歴史の授業で弾圧について習いました。

I learned about suppression in history class.

Using 'ni tsuite' (about).

4

弾圧的なルールは変えるべきです。

Suppressive rules should be changed.

Using 'teki' to turn the noun into an adjective.

5

彼は弾圧を逃れて、外国へ行きました。

He escaped suppression and went to a foreign country.

Using 'nogarete' (escaping).

6

警察は反対派の活動を弾圧した。

The police suppressed the activities of the opposition.

Direct object 'katsudō wo'.

7

弾圧が強まると、人々は怒ります。

When suppression strengthens, people get angry.

Conditional 'to' (when/if).

8

宗教の弾圧は、昔からありました。

Religious suppression has existed since long ago.

Using 'kara' for time duration.

1

独裁国家では、メディアの弾圧が日常的に行われている。

In dictatorial states, the suppression of the media is carried out on a daily basis.

Passive voice 'okonawarete iru'.

2

言論の自由を弾圧することは、基本的人権の侵害だ。

Suppressing freedom of speech is a violation of basic human rights.

Using 'koto' to nominalize the verb phrase.

3

その団体は、政府の弾圧に激しく抗議した。

The group protested fiercely against the government's suppression.

Using 'ni' to indicate the target of protest.

4

軍事政権は、学生運動を武力で弾圧した。

The military regime suppressed the student movement with armed force.

Using 'de' to indicate the means (armed force).

5

多くの人々が、政治的弾圧によって命を落とした。

Many people lost their lives due to political suppression.

Using 'ni yotte' to indicate the cause.

6

政府はネット上の批判を弾圧しようとしている。

The government is trying to suppress criticism on the internet.

Volitional form + 'to shite iru' (trying to).

7

弾圧を恐れて、人々は何も言わなくなった。

Fearing suppression, people stopped saying anything.

Using 'osorete' (fearing).

8

国際社会は、その国での弾圧を厳しく批判した。

The international community severely criticized the suppression in that country.

Compound particle 'de no' (in that country's...).

1

国家権力による思想の弾圧は、民主主義の崩壊を招く。

The suppression of thought by state power leads to the collapse of democracy.

Using 'manaku' (to lead to/invite).

2

当局は、反政府デモを弾圧するために特殊部隊を投入した。

The authorities deployed special forces to suppress the anti-government protests.

Using 'tame ni' (in order to).

3

歴史的に見て、弾圧が成功した例は極めて稀である。

Historically speaking, examples of successful suppression are extremely rare.

Using 'rekishiteki ni mite' (from a historical perspective).

4

少数民族に対する弾圧は、国際法に抵触する可能性がある。

Suppression against ethnic minorities may conflict with international law.

Using 'ni taishite' (towards/against).

5

弾圧が激化するにつれて、地下組織の活動が活発になった。

As suppression intensified, the activities of underground organizations became more active.

Using 'ni tsurete' (as... then...).

6

彼は弾圧の犠牲者として、世界中に知られている。

He is known worldwide as a victim of suppression.

Using 'toshite' (as).

7

弾圧的な法案が議会で可決され、国民に衝撃を与えた。

An oppressive bill was passed in parliament, shocking the citizens.

Passive voice 'kasetsu sare'.

8

政府は情報の流れを弾圧することで、権力を維持しようとした。

The government tried to maintain power by suppressing the flow of information.

Using 'koto de' (by doing...).

1

冷戦期における政治的弾圧の実態が、近年ようやく明らかになってきた。

The reality of political suppression during the Cold War era has finally come to light in recent years.

Using 'ni okeru' (in/during).

2

権力者が自己の地位を盤石にするために弾圧に訴えるのは、古今東西を問わない。

It is true throughout all times and places that those in power resort to suppression to solidify their position.

Using 'ni uttaeru' (to resort to).

3

弾圧の矛先は、知識人やジャーナリストに向けられることが多い。

The brunt of suppression is often directed at intellectuals and journalists.

Using 'hokosaki' (brunt/aim).

4

法的な枠組みを用いた巧妙な弾圧は、国際的な非難を回避しようとする策だ。

Clever suppression using legal frameworks is a tactic to avoid international condemnation.

Using 'kōmyō na' (clever/cunning).

5

抵抗勢力の弾圧は、長期的にはさらなる混乱を招く結果となる。

The suppression of resistance forces results in further chaos in the long run.

Using 'kekka to naru' (to result in).

6

政府の弾圧によって沈黙を余儀なくされた人々は少なくない。

Not a few people were forced into silence by the government's suppression.

Using 'yoginaku sareta' (to be forced).

7

弾圧の歴史を直視することは、未来の過ちを防ぐために不可欠である。

Facing the history of suppression squarely is essential to prevent future mistakes.

Using 'chokushi suru' (to face squarely).

8

いかなる形態の弾圧も、個人の尊厳を深く傷つけるものである。

Any form of suppression deeply wounds the dignity of the individual.

Using 'ikanaru... mo' (any/every kind of).

1

独裁政権は、弾圧の正当化を試みるために、国家の安全保障を盾に取ることが多い。

Dictatorial regimes often use national security as a shield to attempt to justify suppression.

Using 'tate ni toru' (to use as a shield/pretext).

2

弾圧は単なる物理的な暴力に留まらず、監視社会の構築という形態へ変貌を遂げている。

Suppression is no longer limited to simple physical violence; it has transformed into the construction of a surveillance society.

Using 'ni todomarazu' (not limited to).

3

知識体系そのものを弾圧の対象とすることで、歴史の改竄が容易になる。

By making knowledge systems themselves the target of suppression, the falsification of history becomes easier.

Using 'taishō to suru' (to make something the target).

4

弾圧の構造を解明することは、権力の力学を理解する上で極めて重要である。

Elucidating the structure of suppression is extremely important in understanding the dynamics of power.

Using 'ue de' (in the process of/for the purpose of).

5

言論弾圧の矛先がインターネットに及ぶ中、匿名性の確保が喫緊の課題となっている。

As the brunt of speech suppression reaches the internet, ensuring anonymity has become an urgent issue.

Using 'ni oyobu naka' (while reaching/extending to).

6

弾圧的な体制下において、芸術はしばしば抵抗の手段として昇華される。

Under suppressive regimes, art is often sublimated as a means of resistance.

Using 'shōka sareru' (to be sublimated).

7

過去の弾圧に対する謝罪と補償は、社会の再統合に向けた第一歩である。

Apology and compensation for past suppression are the first steps toward social reintegration.

Using 'ni muketa' (aimed towards).

8

弾圧が常態化した社会では、自己検閲が人々の深層心理に根を下ろしてしまう。

In a society where suppression has become normalized, self-censorship takes root in people's deep psychology.

Using 'jōtaika shita' (became normalized).

동의어

抑圧 圧迫 鎮圧 迫害 制裁

반의어

解放 擁護 自由化

자주 쓰는 조합

言論の弾圧
武力弾圧
宗教弾圧
弾圧を受ける
弾圧を加える
弾圧を逃れる
政治的弾圧
徹底的な弾圧
弾圧的な措置
思想の弾圧

자주 쓰는 구문

弾圧の手を緩める

— To relax the suppression. It means to reduce the intensity of a crackdown.

政府は国際的な批判を受けて、弾圧の手を緩めた。

弾圧に抗する

— To resist suppression. It describes the act of fighting back against oppression.

市民は弾圧に抗して、街頭に飛び出した。

弾圧を強化する

— To strengthen suppression. It means to increase the severity of a crackdown.

独裁者は権力を守るために、弾圧を強化した。

弾圧の嵐

— A storm of suppression. A metaphor for a period of intense and widespread crackdowns.

国中に弾圧の嵐が吹き荒れた。

弾圧を正当化する

— To justify suppression. To provide reasons why the oppression is supposedly necessary.

政府は治安維持を理由に、弾圧を正当化した。

弾圧を強いる

— To force suppression. To impose oppressive conditions on others.

権力者は国民に弾圧を強いている。

弾圧の犠牲者

— Victim of suppression. Someone who has suffered from oppressive acts.

彼は弾圧の犠牲者の一人として語り継がれている。

弾圧の歴史

— History of suppression. The record of past oppressive events.

私たちは弾圧の歴史から学ばなければならない。

弾圧に屈する

— To yield to suppression. To give up or surrender under pressure.

彼らは決して弾圧に屈しなかった。

弾圧を黙認する

— To condone or turn a blind eye to suppression.

国際社会が弾圧を黙認することは許されない。

자주 혼동되는 단어

弾圧 vs 抑圧 (yokuatsu)

Yokuatsu is often psychological (suppressing feelings), while dan'atsu is political/physical (suppressing people/movements).

弾圧 vs 鎮圧 (chin'atsu)

Chin'atsu is about stopping a specific event like a riot; dan'atsu is a broader, often ideological suppression.

弾圧 vs 圧迫 (appaku)

Appaku is physical pressure or economic strain, lacks the 'crackdown' nuance of dan'atsu.

관용어 및 표현

"弾圧の矛先を向ける"

— To direct the brunt of suppression toward someone. It means to target a specific group for crackdown.

政府は次に学生たちに弾圧の矛先を向けた。

Formal
"弾圧の網を広げる"

— To spread the net of suppression. To expand the scope of a crackdown to catch more people.

当局は反対派を捕まえるために、弾圧の網を広げた。

Formal
"弾圧の火種"

— The spark of suppression. Something that triggers a crackdown.

その小さなデモが、大規模な弾圧の火種となった。

Neutral
"弾圧の鉄槌を下す"

— To bring down the hammer of suppression. To use overwhelming force to crush something.

反乱軍に対して、政府は弾圧の鉄槌を下した。

Literary
"弾圧の影に怯える"

— To be frightened by the shadow of suppression. To live in constant fear of a crackdown.

国民は弾圧の影に怯えながら暮らしている。

Literary
"弾圧の道具"

— A tool of suppression. Something used by those in power to oppress others.

その法律は、反対派を縛るための弾圧の道具にすぎない。

Neutral
"弾圧の連鎖"

— A chain of suppression. A cycle where suppression leads to more resistance and more suppression.

暴力と弾圧の連鎖を断ち切る必要がある。

Formal
"弾圧の波"

— A wave of suppression. A series of crackdowns happening across a region.

民主化運動に対して、弾圧の波が押し寄せた。

Neutral
"弾圧の最前線"

— The front line of suppression. The place or group most affected by a crackdown.

ジャーナリストたちは、弾圧の最前線で戦っている。

Neutral
"弾圧の傷跡"

— The scars of suppression. The lasting damage caused by oppressive periods.

社会には今も弾圧の傷跡が深く残っている。

Literary

혼동하기 쉬운

弾圧 vs 弾劾 (dangai)

Both start with 'dan' and sound very formal.

Dangai is 'impeachment' (legal removal from office), while dan'atsu is 'suppression' (forceful crackdown).

大統領が弾劾された (The president was impeached) vs 大統領が反対派を弾圧した (The president suppressed the opposition).

弾圧 vs 制圧 (seiatsu)

Both involve using force to control a situation.

Seiatsu is neutral/tactical (subduing a criminal), while dan'atsu implies an unfair or ideological suppression.

犯人を制圧する (To subdue a criminal).

弾圧 vs 弾丸 (dangan)

Uses the same first kanji.

Dangan is a physical bullet; dan'atsu is the abstract concept of suppression.

弾丸が飛んできた (A bullet flew by).

弾圧 vs 威圧 (iatsu)

Both use 'atsu' and involve power.

Iatsu is 'intimidation' or 'overpowering presence', while dan'atsu is the actual act of suppression.

威圧的な態度 (An intimidating attitude).

弾圧 vs 鎮静 (chinsei)

Sounds like 'chin'atsu'.

Chinsei means 'calming down' or 'sedation', whereas dan'atsu is forceful suppression.

混乱が鎮静化する (The confusion calms down).

문장 패턴

A2

[Group] を弾圧する

政府は学生を弾圧した。

B1

[Group] は [Entity] に弾圧された

その団体は軍に弾圧された。

B1

[Idea] の弾圧

言論の弾圧は許されない。

B2

[Entity] による [Group] への弾圧

当局による市民への弾圧が激化している。

B2

弾圧を逃れて [Action]

弾圧を逃れて外国へ亡命した。

C1

弾圧の矛先が [Target] に向く

弾圧の矛先がジャーナリストに向いた。

C1

[Reason] を口実に弾圧する

国家安全を口実に弾圧する。

C2

弾圧が常態化する

弾圧が常態化した社会では自由がない。

어휘 가족

명사

弾圧 (Suppression)
弾圧者 (Oppressor)
被弾圧者 (The oppressed)

동사

弾圧する (To suppress)

형용사

弾圧的な (Suppressive/Oppressive)

관련

弾 (Bullet/Bounce)
圧力 (Pressure)
抑圧 (Repression)
鎮圧 (Quelling)
威圧 (Intimidation)

사용법

frequency

High in news/history, Low in daily life.

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'dan'atsu' for a strict diet. Kibishii daietto (Strict diet).

    Dan'atsu is for political suppression, not personal self-discipline.

  • Writing 'dan'atsu' with the 'play instrument' kanji incorrectly. 弾圧 (using the correct radical).

    The kanji is the same, but the meaning is different. Just make sure you use the right compound.

  • Confusing 'dan'atsu' with 'appaku' in an economic context. Keizai-teki appaku (Economic pressure).

    Economic strain is 'appaku'. 'Dan'atsu' would imply the government is using force to stop people from spending money.

  • Using the particle 'ni' for the object of suppression. Demo wo dan'atsu suru.

    The object being suppressed takes the 'wo' particle in active voice.

  • Using 'dan'atsu' to mean 'to suppress a cough'. Seki wo koraeru (To suppress a cough).

    Physical bodily functions use different verbs like 'koraeru' or 'osaeru'.

Context Matters

Only use 'dan'atsu' for state-level or high-authority crackdowns. Using it for personal matters sounds dramatic and weird.

Passive Voice

The passive form 'dan'atsu sareru' is very common because we often focus on the victims in news stories.

Similar Kanji

Don't confuse 弾 (dan) with 禅 (zen) or 輝 (ki). Look closely at the left side (bow radical).

Common Pairs

Remember the pair 'genron no dan'atsu' (suppression of speech). It's the most frequent way you'll see this word.

Historical Study

When studying Japanese history, keep an eye out for this word in the context of the Edo and Meiji periods.

Dan'atsu vs Yokuatsu

If it involves police or soldiers, it's 'dan'atsu'. If it involves feelings or society, it's 'yokuatsu'.

News Keywords

If you hear 'dan'atsu', expect the story to be about human rights or political conflict.

Stroke Order

The kanji for 'dan' has 12 strokes. Practice the bow radical (弓) first to get the balance right.

Headline Reading

In headlines, 'dan'atsu' is often written in kanji to save space, even if the surrounding text is simple.

Tone

Speak this word with a flat, serious intonation to match its grave meaning.

암기하기

기억법

Imagine a 'Bullet' (弾 - dan) being used as a 'Pressure' (圧 - atsu) plate to crush a protest. Dan + Atsu = Forceful Suppression.

시각적 연상

Picture a giant heavy stamp (representing the government) coming down on a group of tiny people holding signs.

Word Web

Government Police Force Freedom Human Rights History News Control

챌린지

Try to find one news headline from a Japanese news site (like NHK or Asahi) that uses '弾圧' and translate it.

어원

The word '弾圧' is a Sino-Japanese compound (kango). '弾' (dan) originally referred to a bow that shoots pellets or the pellets themselves, evolving to mean 'to repel' or 'to strike.' '圧' (atsu) means 'to press down' or 'to overwhelm.'

원래 의미: To strike and press down, implying a forceful physical suppression.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

문화적 맥락

This is a very serious word. Using it lightly to describe a strict teacher or a boss can be seen as highly hyperbolic or even offensive if taken literally.

In English, we might use 'crackdown,' 'suppression,' or 'oppression' depending on the context. 'Dan'atsu' covers all of these when force is involved.

The movie 'No Regrets for Our Youth' (わが青春に悔なし) deals with pre-war suppression. Historical accounts of the suppression of 'Kakure Kirishitan' (Hidden Christians). George Orwell's '1984' (Japanese translation uses 'dan'atsu' to describe Big Brother's actions).

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

News Reports

  • デモ隊への弾圧
  • 人権弾圧
  • 国際社会が非難
  • 弾圧が激化

History Class

  • キリシタン弾圧
  • 共産主義者の弾圧
  • 思想弾圧の歴史
  • 明治政府による弾圧

Political Science

  • 独裁体制と弾圧
  • 弾圧のメカニズム
  • 法的手段による弾圧
  • 弾圧への抵抗

Human Rights Activism

  • 弾圧を止めろ
  • 弾圧に反対する
  • 犠牲者の救済
  • 弾圧の実態調査

Dystopian Literature

  • 帝国の弾圧
  • 弾圧的な社会
  • 自由を求めて弾圧と戦う
  • 監視と弾圧

대화 시작하기

"最近のニュースで、どこかの国で弾圧が起きていると聞きましたか? (Have you heard about suppression happening in any country in recent news?)"

"歴史の中で、一番ひどい弾圧は何だと思いますか? (In history, what do you think was the worst suppression?)"

"言論の弾圧を防ぐためには、何が必要だと思いますか? (What do you think is necessary to prevent the suppression of speech?)"

"日本史におけるキリシタンの弾圧について知っていますか? (Do you know about the suppression of Christians in Japanese history?)"

"インターネットの規制は、一種の弾圧だと思いますか? (Do you think internet regulation is a type of suppression?)"

일기 주제

もし自分が弾圧のある国に住んでいたら、どのように行動しますか? (If you lived in a country with suppression, how would you act?)

「弾圧」と「治安維持」の境界線はどこにあると思いますか? (Where do you think the line is between 'suppression' and 'maintaining public order'?)

自由を守るために、私たちは弾圧に対して何ができるでしょうか。 (What can we do against suppression to protect our freedom?)

歴史上の弾圧事件を一つ選び、その背景と結果について書いてください。 (Choose one historical event of suppression and write about its background and results.)

現代社会において、目に見えない「弾圧」は存在すると思いますか? (Do you think invisible 'suppression' exists in modern society?)

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

No, that would be way too strong. It would sound like your parent is using military force against you. Use 'kibishii' (strict) instead.

In modern usage, yes. It almost always implies an abuse of power or a violation of rights. It is not a positive word for 'controlling' something.

'Dan'atsu' is usually about movements, ideas, or protests. 'Hakugai' (persecution) is about targeting people for who they are (religion, race).

It is 'genron no dan'atsu' (言論の弾圧). This is a very common set phrase in news and politics.

No. For fire, use 'shōka' (消火) or 'chin'atsu' (鎮圧) if it's a massive forest fire being brought under control.

It uses '弾' (bullet/play instrument) and '圧' (pressure). Together they mean 'forceful pressure'.

Yes, by adding 'suru' to make 'dan'atsu suru' (to suppress).

Yes, it typically appears in the N1 or N2 levels of the Japanese Language Proficiency Test.

The best opposites are 'kaihō' (liberation) or 'yōgo' (protection/defense).

Think of a 'cliff' (厂) with 'soil' (土) being pressed down. Pressure!

셀프 테스트 187 질문

writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The government suppressed the protesters.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Suppression of speech is wrong.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'He suffered political suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'They escaped the suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The military regime is oppressive.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'We must fight against suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Religious suppression has a long history.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'The news reported the crackdown.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'Freedom was suppressed.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate to Japanese: 'There are many victims of suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write the kanji for 'dan'atsu'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'dan'atsu' in hiragana.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Oppressive rules.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Crackdown on the internet.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'To justify suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Intense suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Suppression by the police.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The history of suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'To fear suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Stop the suppression.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 弾圧 (だんあつ)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 言論弾圧 (げんろんだんあつ)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 弾圧的な (だんあつてきな)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 弾圧される (だんあつされる)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 武力弾圧 (ぶりょくだんあつ)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read aloud: 政府は弾圧をやめるべきだ。

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read aloud: 彼は弾圧の犠牲者です。

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read aloud: 思想の弾圧に抗議します。

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read aloud: 弾圧を逃れて亡命しました。

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Read aloud: 自由が弾圧されている。

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Government suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Oppressive politics' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'To resist suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Religious suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'History of suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Suppression of speech' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Victims of suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Thorough suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Escape suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Stop the suppression' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the word you hear: [Audio: Dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the phrase: [Audio: Genron no dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the sentence: [Audio: Seifu wa demo wo dan'atsu shita]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the verb: [Audio: Dan'atsu sarete imasu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Is the speaker talking about 'dan'atsu' or 'den'atsu' (voltage)? [Audio: Dan'atsu ga mondai da]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and translate: [Audio: Rekishi no dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and identify the target: [Audio: Shūkyō dantai wo dan'atsu suru]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and determine if it's past or present: [Audio: Dan'atsu shita]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and translate the adjective: [Audio: Dan'atsu-teki na seifu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write the particle: [Audio: Dan'atsu ___ kōsuru]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write: [Audio: Dan'atsu no giseisha]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write: [Audio: Buryoku dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write: [Audio: Dan'atsu wo nogareru]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write: [Audio: Shisō no dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen and write: [Audio: Tetteiteki na dan'atsu]

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 187 correct

Perfect score!

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