侵略する

• Reading: しんりゃくする
• Romaji: shinryaku suru
• Kanji breakdown: 侵 (shin) — invade, encroach; 略 (ryaku) — plunder, seize
• Pronunciation: /ɕiɴ.ɾʲa.kɯ.sɯ.ɾɯ/

Meaning

To invade; to commit aggression against another country or territory.

A suru-verb with strong negative connotations, referring to military invasion or territorial aggression. 侵 means to invade or encroach, and 略 means to plunder or seize. Used extensively in historical and political contexts, particularly regarding wartime history. Carries a much heavier tone than 侵入 (intrusion).

Examples

1. その国は隣国を侵略して領土を拡大した。 That country invaded its neighbor and expanded its territory.
2. 歴史の授業で侵略戦争について学んだ。 We learned about wars of aggression in history class.
3. 他国を侵略する行為は国際法で禁じられている。 Invading another country is prohibited under international law.

Usage Guide

Context: history, politics, international relations

Tone: serious

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 侵略. 侵 (shin) means to invade or encroach, and 略 (ryaku) means to plunder or seize by force. Together they express military aggression and territorial conquest.

Cultural Context

Era: Ancient

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal