侵略

• Reading: しんりゃく
• Romaji: shinryaku
• Kanji breakdown: 侵 (shin) — encroach, violate; 略 (ryaku) — seize, plunder
• Pronunciation: /ɕi.ɴ.ɾja.kɯ/

Meaning

Invasion; aggression; encroachment. The hostile entry into and seizure of another state's territory, or any act of political or military aggression.

A suru-verb and noun carrying strong negative connotations, 侵略 implies an unjust or unlawful act of aggression, distinguishing it from 進出 (expansion) or 介入 (intervention). Closely associated with debates over Japan's wartime conduct and contemporary international law. Frequently appears in phrases like 侵略戦争 (war of aggression).

Examples

1. 国連憲章は他国への侵略を明確に禁じている。 The United Nations Charter explicitly prohibits aggression against other states.
2. 歴史的な侵略行為に対して誠実な謝罪がなされるべきだ。 Sincere apologies should be made for historical acts of aggression.
3. 隣国への軍事侵略は国際社会から強く非難された。 The military invasion of a neighbouring country was strongly condemned by the international community.

Usage Guide

Context: international law, history, political commentary

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From 侵 (shin) meaning 'to encroach or violate' and 略 (ryaku) meaning 'to seize or plunder.' The compound expresses the forceful violation of another's territory.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: Adults

Social background: Universal