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A1 noun #3,558 most common 11 min read

反抗

hankō Top 3,558

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 反抗 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 反抗 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should think of 反抗 (Hanko) as a word for saying 'No!' to people in charge. Imagine a small child who doesn't want to go to bed or eat their vegetables. They are 'rebelling' in a small way. In Japanese, we use 反抗する (hanko suru) to mean 'to rebel' or 'to not listen to parents/teachers.' It is a very useful word because it helps you describe children or students who are being difficult. Even if you are a beginner, you can use this word to talk about your family or your childhood. For example, 'I was a rebellious child' is a simple sentence you can learn. The word is made of two parts: 'Han' (against) and 'Ko' (resist). It's a strong word, so use it when someone is really fighting against rules. At this level, focus on the 'rebellious phase' (hanko-ki) which is a common topic in Japan. You might hear parents saying their kids are in this phase. Just remember: it's about not following orders from someone older or more powerful.

For A2 learners, 反抗 (Hanko) is an important noun for describing social and family dynamics. You should learn the adjective form 反抗的な (hanko-teki na), which means 'rebellious.' You can use this to describe someone's attitude or even their look. For instance, 'He has a rebellious attitude' is 彼は反抗的な態度をとっている. At this level, you can also start to distinguish 反抗 from simple disagreement. Disagreement is 反対 (hantai), but 反抗 is more active and usually happens between people of different ranks. You will often see this word in basic stories or news about school life. It's also helpful to know the phrase 親に反抗する (to rebel against parents), as it's a very standard Japanese expression. When you use this word, you are describing a conflict of will. It's not just a physical fight; it's a mental refusal to obey. Practice using it with the particle 'ni' to show who the person is rebelling against.

At the B1 level, you can explore the psychological and social nuances of 反抗 (Hanko). You should be comfortable using the term 反抗期 (hanko-ki) to discuss child development and the 'terrible twos' or 'teenage rebellion.' In Japan, this is seen as a necessary part of becoming an adult. You can also use 反抗心 (hanko-shin) to describe a 'rebellious spirit' or 'defiance.' This is often used in a more positive or neutral way to describe someone who doesn't just follow the crowd. You should also start noticing the difference between 反抗 and 抵抗 (teiko). Remember that 抵抗 is often used for physical resistance (like resisting arrest) or scientific resistance (like air resistance), while 反抗 is almost always social or interpersonal. In B1 level texts, you might find 反抗 used in discussions about workplace hierarchy or historical events where people stood up against authority. It's a key word for expressing the concept of 'defiance' in a variety of contexts.

By B2, you should understand the deeper cultural implications of 反抗 (Hanko) in Japanese society. Japan is traditionally a 'high-context' society that values harmony (wa) and hierarchy. Therefore, 反抗 is often viewed more seriously than in some Western cultures. It represents a significant break from the expected social behavior. You can use this word in more complex grammatical structures, such as passive forms (反抗される - to be rebelled against) or causative forms (反抗させる - to make someone rebel). You should also be able to use it in abstract contexts, such as 'rebellion against the times' (時代への反抗) or 'rebellion against common sense' (常識への反抗). This level also requires understanding how 反抗 can be a theme in literature and cinema, often representing the struggle for individual identity. You might encounter it in essays about social justice or political science, where it describes the initial stages of a movement before it becomes a full-scale 'revolt' (反乱).

At the C1 level, you should be able to use 反抗 (Hanko) with precision in academic and professional discussions. This includes understanding its place in legal terminology, such as 反抗不能 (hanko-funō), a legal term meaning 'incapable of resistance' (often used in cases involving physical or mental incapacity). You should also be able to discuss the sociological theories surrounding the 反抗期, such as how it relates to the formation of the 'ego' in Japanese psychology. You can compare 反抗 with more specialized terms like 不服従 (fufukujū) (civil disobedience) or 叛逆 (hangyaku) (treason/insurrection). In C1 level discourse, 反抗 can be analyzed as a catalyst for social change or as a symptom of systemic failure. You should be able to write nuanced critiques of authority using this word, distinguishing between 'justified rebellion' and 'mere contrarianism.' Your vocabulary should also include related idioms and high-level collocations like 反抗の狼煙を上げる (to raise the smoke signal of rebellion/to start a rebellion).

For C2 mastery, 反抗 (Hanko) should be used with an effortless understanding of its historical and philosophical weight. You can analyze how the concept of 反抗 has evolved from the feudal 'loyalty vs. betrayal' dynamic to the modern 'individual vs. state' conflict. You should be able to use the word in high-level literary analysis, exploring how 'anti-heroes' in Japanese literature manifest their 反抗心. In professional legal or diplomatic contexts, you would understand the subtle differences between 反抗, 抗議, and 抵抗 in international treaties or human rights reports. You are also expected to recognize the word's use in classical or semi-classical texts where it might appear in compounds that are less common in modern speech. At this level, you don't just know the word; you understand the tension it creates in the Japanese psyche—the struggle between the desire for autonomy and the deeply ingrained pressure to conform. You can use 反抗 to articulate complex ideas about human nature, power structures, and the ethics of defiance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

反抗 in 30 Seconds

Hanko means 'rebellion' or 'defiance' against authority figures like parents or teachers.
It is most famous in the term 'hanko-ki,' referring to the rebellious phase of youth.
Grammatically, it functions as a noun or a 'suru' verb (to rebel).
It differs from 'teiko' (general resistance) by focusing on social power dynamics.

The word 反抗 (Hanko) is a fundamental Japanese term used to describe the act of resisting, defying, or rebelling against authority. At its core, it combines the kanji 反 (han), meaning 'opposite' or 'against,' with 抗 (kō), meaning 'resist' or 'confront.' While it can be used in a wide range of contexts, from political uprisings to workplace disputes, its most common everyday application is within the family unit and the education system. In Japan, the concept of the 'rebellious phase' or 反抗期 (hanko-ki) is a well-recognized developmental milestone for children and teenagers. When a child starts saying 'no' to their parents or ignoring household rules, they are said to be showing a 'rebellious attitude' (反抗的な態度). This word carries a nuance of direct confrontation; it is not just passive disagreement, but an active pushing back against someone who holds power over you.

Daily Life: Parents often use this word when discussing their children's behavior with teachers or other parents. It describes the friction that occurs when a subordinate (child) challenges the superior (parent).

息子が親に反抗するのは、成長の証拠です。(A son's rebellion against his parents is proof of growth.)

Beyond the home, 反抗 is used in historical and social contexts to describe movements against established regimes or unfair laws. However, it is important to distinguish it from 'revolution' (革命). While a revolution seeks to overthrow the entire system, 反抗 is often more localized or personal—it is the act of saying 'I will not follow this specific order.' In literature and media, you will often find protagonists who exhibit 反抗心 (hankō-shin), or a 'spirit of rebellion.' This is often portrayed as a noble trait when the authority being resisted is corrupt or unjust. Conversely, in a strict corporate environment, 反抗 might be viewed negatively as a lack of cooperation or a disruption of the 'wa' (harmony).

Psychological Context: In Japanese psychology, there are 'first' and 'second' rebellious phases. The first is around age 2-3 (terrible twos), and the second is during puberty.

彼は権力に対して反抗的な姿勢を崩さない。(He maintains a rebellious stance against power.)

Understanding 反抗 also requires understanding the Japanese cultural emphasis on hierarchy. Because Japanese society traditionally values 'filial piety' (孝) and 'obedience' (従順), the act of 反抗 is seen as a significant disruption. It isn't just a difference of opinion; it is a challenge to the social order. Therefore, using this word can sound quite strong. If you are just disagreeing with a friend, you wouldn't use 反抗. You use it when there is a clear power dynamic involved. In modern times, the word has also been adopted into subcultures, such as punk rock or streetwear, where 'rebellion' is celebrated as an expression of individuality and strength against a conformist society.

Legal Context: In legal terms, 反抗 might be used to describe a suspect resisting arrest or a prisoner defying guards, though other more specific terms like 'kōkyo' (resistance) also exist.

Using 反抗 (Hanko) correctly involves understanding its role as a 'Suru-verb' and as a noun that can be modified by adjectives. The most common grammatical construction is [Person] に反抗する (to rebel against [Person]). The particle に (ni) is crucial here as it indicates the target of the resistance. For example, 'rebelling against a teacher' would be 先生に反抗する. If you want to describe the behavior as an adjective, you use 反抗的な (hanko-teki na), meaning 'rebellious.' This is frequently paired with nouns like 'attitude' (態度) or 'look' (目つき). Understanding these patterns allows you to describe a wide array of human behaviors and social dynamics.

The 'Suru' Verb Form: When you add 'suru', it becomes an action. It's used for both physical resistance and verbal defiance. Example: 'Don't rebel against me!' (私に反抗するな！)

中学生になると、多くの子供が親に反抗し始めます。(When they become middle schoolers, many children start to rebel against their parents.)

Another common usage is the compound noun 反抗期 (hanko-ki). This refers to the specific age or period when someone is naturally more rebellious. You can say someone is 'in their rebellious phase' by using 反抗期だ or 反抗期に入った (entered the rebellious phase). This is a very common topic of conversation among Japanese parents. It’s also worth noting that 反抗 can be used in the passive voice—反抗される—meaning 'to be rebelled against.' A teacher might say, 'I was rebelled against by the students' (学生に反抗された), which emphasizes the teacher's experience of being challenged.

Adjectival Use: Use 反抗的な to describe a person's demeanor. 'A rebellious teenager' is 反抗的なティーンエイジャー. 'A rebellious look' is 反抗的な目つき.

彼は上司の命令に対して、反抗的な態度をとった。(He took a rebellious attitude toward his boss's orders.)

In more formal or academic writing, you might see 反抗 used to describe broader social phenomena. For example, 'rebellion against tradition' (伝統への反抗) or 'rebellion against the system' (体制への反抗). In these cases, the particle への (he no) is often used to show the direction of the rebellion toward an abstract concept. This word is versatile because it can scale from a toddler refusing to eat carrots to a citizen refusing to pay taxes in protest. The key is the existence of an established 'rule' or 'authority' that is being countered. Without that power dynamic, the word 反抗 doesn't quite fit.

Common Collocations: 1. 反抗を抑える (suppress rebellion)
2. 反抗を試みる (attempt to rebel)
3. 反抗の色を見せる (show signs of rebellion)

You will encounter 反抗 (Hanko) in a variety of settings in Japan, ranging from the very casual to the highly formal. One of the most common places is in family counseling or parenting blogs. Japan has a very structured view of childhood development, and the 反抗期 (hanko-ki) is discussed as a natural, albeit stressful, part of growing up. You might hear a mother at a cafe saying, 'My daughter has finally entered her rebellious phase' (娘がついに反抗期に入っちゃって), usually with a mix of exasperation and a sense of relief that the child is developing normally. It is a word that bridges the gap between clinical psychology and everyday gossip.

In Schools: Teachers use this word in staff meetings to describe students who are difficult to manage. A student who refuses to follow school dress codes or talks back to teachers is often labeled as 反抗的 (hanko-teki).

あの生徒はいつも先生に反抗ばかりしている。(That student is always doing nothing but rebelling against the teacher.)

In the realm of news and media, 反抗 appears in reports about social unrest or protests. While 'protest' is often translated as 抗議 (kōgi), 反抗 is used when the focus is on the act of defiance against the law. For example, if a group of people refuses to follow a government mandate, the news might describe their actions as 政府への反抗 (rebellion against the government). Similarly, in crime news, if a suspect resists a police officer, the term 警察への反抗 might be used. It implies a direct, often physical or verbal, confrontation with the law's representatives.

Literature and Art: Authors use 反抗 to describe the inner struggle of characters who want to break free from societal expectations. It's a key theme in 'coming-of-age' novels.

若者の反抗は、新しい時代を作るエネルギーになる。(Youthful rebellion becomes the energy that creates a new era.)

Finally, you will hear this word in historical documentaries. Japan has a history of peasant uprisings (百姓一揆), and while those have their own specific names, the general act of the peasants rising up against the samurai class is often categorized as 反抗. In this sense, the word connects the personal struggles of a modern teenager with the grand historical shifts of the past. Whether it is a quiet refusal to bow or a loud shout in the streets, the essence of 反抗 remains the same: a refusal to be controlled by those who claim authority over you.

Workplace Dynamics: In a 'black kaisa' (exploitative company), employees might show 反抗 by refusing unpaid overtime. This is often a turning point in workplace dramas.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing 反抗 (Hanko) with 抵抗 (Teiko). While both can be translated as 'resistance,' they are used in different contexts. 反抗 specifically implies a rebellion against a person or an authority figure (like a parent or boss). 抵抗, on the other hand, is a more physical or general resistance, such as 'air resistance' (空気抵抗) or 'resisting an electrical current.' You can 'resist' (抵抗) an attacker in an alleyway, but you 'rebel' (反抗) against your father's strict rules. Using 反抗 for physical physics or general opposition can sound very strange to a native speaker.

Confusing with 'Opposition': Don't confuse 反抗 with 反対 (Hantai). 反対 simply means 'opposite' or 'disagreement.' If you disagree with a plan, you use 反対. If you actively defy the person who made the plan, you use 反抗.

× 彼は空気の反抗を感じた。(He felt the air's rebellion.)
○ 彼は空気の抵抗を感じた。(He felt the air resistance.)

Another common error is the mispronunciation or confusion with the homophone 判子 (Hanko), which means a name stamp or seal. While they sound identical to the untrained ear, the pitch accent and context are different. In a sentence like 'I need your hanko,' it clearly refers to the stamp. In 'He is in his hanko-ki,' it clearly refers to rebellion. However, if you are writing, using the wrong kanji (判子 vs 反抗) will completely change the meaning and likely cause confusion. Always double-check your kanji when typing, as Japanese IME (Input Method Editors) will offer both options.

Nuance Mistake: Using 反抗 when you just mean 'to be stubborn.' If a child won't eat their vegetables, they might be わがまま (wagamama) or 頑固 (ganko), but 反抗 implies a deeper level of defiance against the parent's authority.

× 私は友達に反抗した。(I rebelled against my friend.)
○ 私は友達に反対した。(I disagreed with my friend.)

Lastly, be careful with the level of intensity. 反抗 is a powerful word. If you use it to describe a minor disagreement, it can make the situation sound much more hostile than it actually is. It suggests a breakdown in the relationship or a conscious choice to ignore a superior. In a polite Japanese context, where indirectness is often preferred, using such a direct word can be seen as quite aggressive. If you want to describe a milder form of resistance, you might use phrases like 言うことを聞かない (not listening to what is said) or 逆らう (sakarau - to go against).

Overuse of 'Hanko-ki': Sometimes people use 'hanko-ki' as an excuse for any bad behavior. While culturally understood, in a professional or serious behavioral analysis, more specific terms are required.

To truly master 反抗 (Hanko), you must see how it sits alongside its synonyms and related terms. Japanese has many words for 'resistance' or 'opposition,' each with its own specific flavor. The most important comparison is with 抵抗 (Teiko). As mentioned before, 抵抗 is general resistance (physical, electrical, or mental), while 反抗 is specifically defiance against authority. Another close relative is 逆らう (Sakarau). This is a verb that means 'to go against' or 'to oppose.' It is slightly more casual and can be used for things like 'going against the wind' or 'going against one's fate,' whereas 反抗 is almost always about a social power dynamic.

Comparison: Hanko vs. Teiko: 反抗 (Hanko): Vertical defiance (Child vs Parent).
抵抗 (Teiko): General resistance (Soldier vs Enemy, or Air Resistance).

彼は運命に逆らう。(He goes against fate.) vs 彼は親に反抗する。(He rebels against his parents.)

Then there is 反乱 (Hanran), which translates to 'rebellion' or 'insurrection.' This is a much larger scale than 反抗. An individual teenager doesn't start a 反乱; they show 反抗. A group of soldiers or a province rising up against a king starts a 反乱. Another word is 謀反 (Muhon), which is an archaic term for 'treason' or 'plotting a rebellion,' often seen in samurai dramas (jidaigeki). If you are watching a show about the Sengoku period, you will hear 謀反 frequently when a vassal betrays their lord.

Comparison: Hanko vs. Hantai: 反抗 (Hanko): An act of defiance/rebellion.
反対 (Hantai): An opinion of disagreement or the opposite side.

増税に反対する。(To oppose tax increases.) vs 権力に反抗する。(To rebel against power.)

For a more positive spin on rebellion, you might use 独立心 (Dokuritsu-shin), meaning 'independent spirit.' Sometimes what a parent calls 反抗, a psychologist might call the development of 独立心. On the other end of the spectrum, the antonym of 反抗 is 服従 (Fukujū), meaning 'obedience' or 'submission.' In a society that historically valued 服従, 反抗 is the necessary counter-force that allows for change and individual growth. Understanding these nuances helps you choose the right word for the right level of intensity and the right social context.

Summary of Alternatives: 1. 逆らう (Sakarau) - To go against.
2. 抵抗 (Teiko) - To resist.
3. 反乱 (Hanran) - To revolt.
4. 逆上 (Gyaku-jō) - To fly into a rage (sometimes related to rebellion).

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The 'Hanko-ki' (rebellious phase) concept in Japan is so pervasive that it is often used as a catch-all excuse for any teenage behavior, and there are countless books for parents on 'how to survive the Hanko-ki.'

Pronunciation Guide

UK /hæn.kəʊ/

US /hɑːn.koʊ/

Japanese pitch accent: Han-KŌ (Atamadaka-type in some dialects, but often flat/Heiban in standard Japanese).

Rhymes With

Kankō (Tourism) Nankō (Difficulty) Sankō (Reference) Zankō (Afterglow) Dankō (Decisive action) Gankō (Stubbornness) Jōkō (Article/Clause) Kenko (Health - but different 'ko')

Common Errors

Confusing it with 'Hanko' (seal/stamp) which has a different pitch.
Pronouncing the 'n' too weakly.
Elongating the 'o' too much like an English 'oh'.
Missing the 'u' sound at the end (it is technically Hankou).
Stressing the first syllable too hard.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji are common but require N3 level knowledge to read comfortably.

Writing 4/5

The kanji '抗' can be tricky to write correctly from memory.

Speaking 2/5

Easy to say, but pitch accent matters to distinguish from 'stamp'.

Listening 2/5

Commonly heard in anime and daily conversations about kids.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

反対 (Opposite) 親 (Parents) 先生 (Teacher) 言う (To say) 聞く (To listen/obey)

Learn Next

抵抗 (Resistance) 反乱 (Revolt) 従順 (Obedient) 独立 (Independence) 権利 (Rights)

Advanced

不服従 (Non-compliance) 叛逆 (Treason) 葛藤 (Conflict/Struggle) 抑圧 (Oppression)

Grammar to Know

Suru-verbs

反抗する、勉強する、練習する。

Particle 'ni' for targets

親に反抗する、先生に聞く。

Adjective formation with 'teki'

反抗的、民主的、積極的。

Compound nouns

反抗 + 期 = 反抗期。

Nominalization with 'no' or 'koto'

反抗することは難しい。

Examples by Level

子供が親に反抗します。

The child rebels against the parents.

Uses the basic [Person] に [Verb] structure.

私は反抗期です。

I am in my rebellious phase.

Uses 'hanko-ki' as a noun.

先生に反抗しないでください。

Please do not rebel against the teacher.

Negative request form 'shinaide kudasai'.

彼は反抗的な子供でした。

He was a rebellious child.

Adjective form 'hanko-teki na' modifying 'kodomo'.

反抗はよくないです。

Rebellion is not good.

Noun used as a subject.

弟がいつも反抗する。

My younger brother always rebels.

Simple present tense verb.

反抗的な態度をとる。

To take a rebellious attitude.

Common phrase 'taido wo toru'.

少し反抗したいです。

I want to rebel a little.

Desire form 'tai desu'.

彼は親の言うことに反抗した。

He rebelled against what his parents said.

Past tense 'shita'.

反抗的な目つきで見る。

To look with a rebellious glare.

Adverbial use of 'hanko-teki na'.

彼女は反抗期に入ったばかりだ。

She has just entered her rebellious phase.

Compound 'hanko-ki' + 'ni hairu'.

ルールに反抗するのはやめなさい。

Stop rebelling against the rules.

Imperative 'yamenasai'.

反抗的な学生が一人もいない。

There isn't even one rebellious student.

Negative existence 'inai'.

反抗する理由は何ですか？

What is the reason for rebelling?

Question form.

彼は反抗心が強い。

He has a strong rebellious spirit.

Noun 'hanko-shin' (rebellious spirit).

上司に反抗するのは難しい。

It is difficult to rebel against a boss.

Gerund-like use 'suru no wa'.

思春期には反抗期がつきものだ。

A rebellious phase is part and parcel of puberty.

Uses 'tsukimono' (goes with/inherent to).

権力に対する反抗を呼びかける。

To call for rebellion against power.

Uses 'ni taisuru' (against/toward).

彼は反抗的な行動で注目を集めた。

He drew attention with his rebellious behavior.

Means of action 'de'.

反抗することで自分を表現した。

He expressed himself by rebelling.

Conditional/Means 'koto de'.

不当な命令に反抗するのは当然だ。

It's natural to rebel against unjust orders.

Uses 'tōzen' (natural/obvious).

彼女の反抗は、ただの甘えかもしれない。

Her rebellion might just be a way of seeking attention.

Noun + 'kamoshirenai'.

政府への反抗が国中に広がった。

Rebellion against the government spread throughout the country.

Uses 'he no' for direction.

無言の反抗を続ける。

To continue a silent rebellion.

Adjective 'mugon no' (silent).

管理社会への反抗がテーマの映画。

A movie whose theme is rebellion against a managed society.

Complex noun phrase modifying 'eiga'.

彼は体制に反抗する道を選んだ。

He chose the path of rebelling against the establishment.

Relative clause 'taisei ni hanko suru' modifying 'michi'.

反抗的な態度を改めるように注意された。

He was warned to correct his rebellious attitude.

Passive voice 'chuui sareta' + 'yō ni' (to do so).

親の期待が、かえって子供の反抗を招いた。

The parents' expectations actually invited the child's rebellion.

Adverb 'kaette' (on the contrary).

若者たちの反抗は、既存の価値観を揺るがした。

The youth's rebellion shook existing values.

Uses 'yurugashita' (shook/destabilized).

反抗の意志を明確に示す。

To clearly show the will to rebel.

Noun 'ishi' (will/intent).

彼はあえて反抗的な役を演じた。

He dared to play a rebellious role.

Adverb 'aete' (daringly/purposely).

反抗心こそが、芸術の源泉である。

A rebellious spirit is the very source of art.

Emphasis particle 'koso'.

被告は反抗不能の状態にあったとされる。

The defendant is said to have been in a state incapable of resistance.

Legal term 'hanko-funō'.

近代文学における反抗の系譜をたどる。

Tracing the lineage of rebellion in modern literature.

Academic term 'keifu' (lineage/genealogy).

その政策は、国民の激しい反抗に遭った。

That policy met with fierce rebellion from the citizens.

Verb 'au' (to meet with/encounter something negative).

伝統への反抗が、新たな様式美を生み出した。

Rebellion against tradition gave birth to a new stylistic beauty.

Resultative 'umidashita'.

個人の尊厳を守るための反抗は正当化されるべきだ。

Rebellion to protect individual dignity should be justified.

Passive potential 'shōto-ka sareru beki' (should be justified).

彼の反抗的な言動は、組織の調和を乱した。

His rebellious words and actions disrupted the harmony of the organization.

Compound 'gendō' (words and actions).

抑圧が強まれば強まるほど、反抗も激しくなる。

The stronger the oppression, the more intense the rebellion becomes.

Grammar 'ba... hodo' (the more... the more).

反抗の狼煙を上げるタイミングを計る。

To time the moment to raise the smoke signal of rebellion.

Idiomatic 'noroshi wo ageru'.

実存主義哲学において、反抗は人間の本質的行為とされる。

In existentialist philosophy, rebellion is considered an essential human act.

Philosophical context.

権力への盲目的な従順は、反抗よりも罪深い。

Blind obedience to power is more sinful than rebellion.

Comparison 'yori mo'.

社会構造そのものに対する根源的な反抗。

A fundamental rebellion against the social structure itself.

Emphasis 'sono mono' (itself).

彼は自らの運命に対する反抗を、詩に昇華させた。

He sublimated his rebellion against his own fate into poetry.

Verb 'shōka saseru' (sublimate).

歴史の転換点には、常に名もなき民衆の反抗があった。

At the turning points of history, there was always the rebellion of the nameless masses.

Formal 'tenkanten' (turning point).

絶対的な他者に対する反抗の不可能性を論じる。

Discussing the impossibility of rebellion against the absolute 'Other'.

Abstract philosophical noun 'fukanō-sei'.

反抗という名の自己救済。

Self-salvation in the name of rebellion.

Apposition 'to iu na no' (in the name of).

制度の網の目を潜り抜ける、静かな反抗。

A quiet rebellion that slips through the meshes of the system.

Metaphorical 'ami no me' (meshes of a net).

Synonyms

抵抗反逆反発逆らう対抗

Antonyms

従順服従順応

Common Collocations

反抗期

反抗的な態度

反抗心

反抗を抑える

親に反抗する

権力への反抗

反抗的な目つき

反抗を試みる

無言の反抗

反抗声明

Common Phrases

反抗期真っ盛り

— In the height/middle of the rebellious phase. Used to describe someone peak rebellion.

うちの娘は今、反抗期真っ盛りです。

反抗的な目

— Rebellious eyes. Describes a look of defiance or challenge.

彼は反抗的な目で私を見た。

反抗の兆し

— Signs of rebellion. Used when someone starts showing defiant behavior.

部下の中に反抗の兆しが見える。

反抗を許さない

— Not allowing any rebellion. Describes a very strict authority.

その先生は一切の反抗を許さない。

反抗を煽る

— To incite or stir up rebellion. Usually used for groups or social movements.

SNSが若者の反抗を煽っている。

反抗の余地

— Room for rebellion. Often used in the negative to mean there's no choice but to obey.

反抗の余地は残されていなかった。

反抗的な言動

— Rebellious speech and conduct. A formal way to describe defiant behavior.

反抗的な言動を慎みなさい。

反抗に転じる

— To turn to rebellion. Used when someone who was obedient starts rebelling.

彼は突然、反抗に転じた。

反抗心旺盛

— Full of rebellious spirit. Describes someone who is naturally defiant.

反抗心旺盛な若手社員。

反抗を企てる

— To plot a rebellion. Suggests a planned act of defiance.

囚人たちが反抗を企てている。

Often Confused With

反抗 vs 抵抗 (Teiko)

Hanko is for people/authority; Teiko is for physical forces or general resistance.

反抗 vs 反対 (Hantai)

Hantai is an opinion (opposite); Hanko is an act of defiance.

反抗 vs 判子 (Hanko)

Homophone meaning 'stamp/seal'. Different kanji and pitch.

Idioms & Expressions

"反抗の狼煙を上げる"

— To start a rebellion or signal the beginning of a fight against authority.

彼はついに会社に対して反抗の狼煙を上げた。

Literary

"飼い犬に手を噛まれる"

— To be betrayed by a subordinate or someone you've helped (related to unexpected rebellion).

信頼していた部下に反抗され、飼い犬に手を噛まれた気分だ。

Common Idiom

"長いものには巻かれろ"

— Yield to the powerful (the opposite of rebellion; advice to conform).

反抗しても無駄だ、長いものには巻かれろというだろう。

Proverb

"寄らば大樹の陰"

— Seek the shelter of a large tree (advice to follow authority instead of rebelling).

反抗するより、寄らば大樹の陰で安全に過ごすべきだ。

Proverb

"出る釘は打たれる"

— The nail that sticks out gets hammered down (why rebellion is often discouraged in Japan).

反抗的な態度は控えなさい。出る釘は打たれるから。

Proverb

"反抗の矛先を向ける"

— To point the spearhead of rebellion (to direct one's defiance toward someone).

彼は反抗の矛先を父親に向けた。

Formal

"牙を剥く"

— To bare one's fangs (to show a rebellious or aggressive attitude suddenly).

おとなしかった彼が、ついに上司に牙を剥いた。

Metaphorical

"反旗を翻す"

— To raise the flag of revolt (a stronger version of 'hanko').

家臣たちが主君に対して反旗を翻した。

Historical/Formal

"鼻を明かす"

— To take someone down a peg (a form of successful rebellion or showing up authority).

反抗的な態度で、傲慢な上司の鼻を明かしてやった。

Informal

"一矢報いる"

— To shoot back a single arrow (to retaliate or rebel in a small but significant way).

彼は解雇される前に、会社に一矢報いる反抗を見せた。

Idiomatic

Easily Confused

反抗 vs 反乱 (Hanran)

Both mean rebellion.

Hanran is large-scale/military; Hanko is individual/behavioral.

兵士の反乱 (Soldiers' revolt) vs 子供の反抗 (Child's rebellion).

反抗 vs 逆らう (Sakarau)

Both mean to go against.

Sakarau is a general verb; Hanko is a more formal noun/verb for defiance.

風に逆らう (Go against wind) vs 親に反抗する (Rebel against parents).

反抗 vs 反逆 (Hangyaku)

Both mean rebellion.

Hangyaku implies treason or a serious betrayal of a superior.

王への反逆 (Treason against the king).

反抗 vs 不服 (Fufuku)

Both involve not following orders.

Fufuku is formal dissatisfaction with a ruling or decision.

判決に不服がある (Dissatisfied with the verdict).

反抗 vs 抗議 (Kōgi)

Both involve opposing something.

Kōgi is expressing a protest; Hanko is the act of defying authority.

不当な解雇に抗議する (Protest unfair dismissal).

Sentence Patterns

[Person] に反抗する

親に反抗する。

[Person] は反抗期だ

弟は反抗期だ。

反抗的な [Noun]

反抗的な態度。

[Concept] への反抗

社会への反抗。

反抗の [Noun] を [Verb]

反抗の狼煙を上げる。

反抗という名の [Noun]

反抗という名の自由。

反抗心が強い

彼は反抗心が強い。

反抗して [Verb]

反抗して家を出る。

Word Family

Nouns

反抗期 (Hanko-ki) - Rebellious phase

反抗心 (Hanko-shin) - Rebellious spirit

反抗者 (Hanko-sha) - Rebel/Resister

Verbs

反抗する (Hanko-suru) - To rebel/resist

Adjectives

反抗的 (Hanko-teki) - Rebellious/Defiant

抵抗 (Teiko) - Resistance

反対 (Hantai) - Opposition

反論 (Hanron) - Counter-argument

反乱 (Hanran) - Revolt

反逆 (Hangyaku) - Treason

How to Use It

frequency

High in family/educational contexts; moderate in political contexts.

Common Mistakes

Using 'Hanko' for air resistance. → 空気抵抗 (Kūki Teiko).
Hanko is only for social/human rebellion, not physical forces.
Using the 'Hanko' (stamp) kanji for rebellion. → 反抗 (Rebellion) vs 判子 (Stamp).
These are completely different words that just sound the same.
Saying 'Hanko wo suru' instead of 'Hanko suru'. → 反抗する。
While 'wo suru' is grammatically okay, 'hanko suru' is the standard suru-verb form.
Using 'Hanko' when you just mean 'disagree'. → 反対 (Hantai).
If you just think a plan is bad, you 'hantai'. If you refuse to follow it to spite the boss, you 'hanko'.
Forgetting the 'ni' particle. → 親に反抗する。
You cannot say 'Oya hanko suru' without the particle.

Tips

Use the Particle 'Ni'

Always use 'ni' to mark the person you are rebelling against. For example: 'Sensei ni hanko suru'.

Hanko-ki is Normal

In Japan, saying someone is in their 'Hanko-ki' is often a way to normalize their bad behavior as a growth stage.

Hanko vs Hantai

Use 'Hantai' for opinions and 'Hanko' for actions of defiance.

Pitch Accent

Be careful with the pitch to avoid confusion with the word for 'stamp'.

Kanji Meaning

Remember: 反 (Against) + 抗 (Resist). Thinking of the meanings makes it easier to write.

Intensity

Hanko is a strong word. Use 'sakarau' for milder forms of 'going against' something.

Compound Nouns

Learn 'Hanko-ki' and 'Hanko-shin' as set phrases; they are used more often than the verb alone.

Anime Rebels

Pay attention to how 'rebel' characters are described. They often have a strong 'Hanko-shin'.

Hand Radicals

Both kanji involve the concept of hands/actions, emphasizing that rebellion is an active choice.

Workplace Warning

Avoid using 'Hanko' about yourself in a job interview unless you're explaining how you've matured!

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a HAND (Han) trying to push back (Ko) against a giant wall. The wall is Authority. You are 'Hanko'-ing against it.

Visual Association

Visualize a teenager standing with their arms crossed (the shape of the kanji 反) and a firm, resisting stance (抗).

Word Web

Authority Parents Teachers Rules Teenager No Defiance Growth

Challenge

Try to use 'Hanko' in three different ways today: as a verb (rebel), as a noun (rebellion), and as part of 'Hanko-ki' (rebellious phase).

Word Origin

The word consists of two kanji: '反' (han) and '抗' (kō). '反' originally depicted a hand turning something over, signifying 'opposite' or 'against.' '抗' consists of the 'hand' radical and a phonetic component meaning 'to shield' or 'to stand up,' together meaning 'to resist.'

Original meaning: The original meaning in Classical Chinese was to confront or resist a force or person directly.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'Hanko' to describe political movements in sensitive areas; 'Kōgi' (protest) is often more neutral.

In English, 'rebellion' can sound cool or rock-and-roll. In Japanese, 'Hanko' often sounds more like 'troublesome defiance' or a 'behavioral problem' unless used in a specific artistic context.

The song '15 no Yoru' by Yutaka Ozaki is the ultimate anthem of Japanese teenage 'Hanko'. The anime 'Code Geass' features a protagonist whose entire life is an act of 'Hanko' against an empire. The novel 'Kokoro' by Natsume Soseki touches on the themes of generational rebellion.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family/Parenting

反抗期
親に反抗する
反抗的な態度
反抗をなだめる

School/Education

先生に反抗する
校則への反抗
反抗的な生徒
反抗を指導する

Politics/Society

権力への反抗
体制への反抗
反抗声明
民衆の反抗

Psychology

反抗心
自我の反抗
反抗の心理
発達段階としての反抗

Legal/Crime

反抗不能
警察への反抗
反抗の痕跡
反抗を抑圧する

Conversation Starters

"あなたは子供の頃、親に反抗しましたか？ (Did you rebel against your parents when you were a child?)"

"反抗期はいつ始まりましたか？ (When did your rebellious phase start?)"

"反抗的な生徒についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about rebellious students?)"

"最近、何かに反抗したいと思ったことはありますか？ (Have you felt like rebelling against something recently?)"

"日本の「反抗期」という言葉を知っていますか？ (Do you know the Japanese word 'Hanko-ki'?)"

Journal Prompts

私の反抗期のエピソードについて書く。 (Write about an episode from my rebellious phase.)

権力に反抗することは、常に正しいことだろうか？ (Is rebelling against power always the right thing to do?)

現代社会における「反抗」の意味を考える。 (Consider the meaning of 'rebellion' in modern society.)

もし子供が自分に反抗したら、どう対処するか。 (How would I handle it if my child rebelled against me?)

反抗心と独立心の違いについて。 (On the difference between a rebellious spirit and an independent spirit.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not necessarily. While it's seen as troublesome, 'Hanko-ki' is recognized as a sign of healthy growth and the development of independence.

'Hanko' is for social defiance (like a child to a parent), while 'Teiko' is for physical resistance (like air resistance or resisting an attacker).

Yes, but 'Kōgi' (protest) or 'Hantai-undō' (opposition movement) are more common for organized events.

It means 'rebellious phase,' usually referring to the toddler years or the teenage years.

Yes, to describe a defiant employee, but it's a very strong and negative word in a corporate setting.

You can say 'Watashi wa hanko shite imu' (私は反抗している).

The most common antonym is 'Fukujū' (服従), which means obedience or submission.

No, they are homophones but have different kanji and meanings. The stamp is '判子'.

Yes, it's very common to describe a 'rebellious attitude' (反抗的な態度).

Sometimes, to describe a dog that won't listen to its owner, but it's more commonly for humans.