1.
defeat in war, military defeat
Losing a war. In Japanese, this word most commonly refers to Japan's defeat in World War II, but it can also describe any military defeat or, more broadly, losing in a competition or match.
敗戦から日本は立ち直った。
Japan recovered from its wartime defeat.
敗戦の責任を問う声が上がった。
Voices arose calling for accountability for the defeat.
敗戦直後の日本は食料も物資も不足し、多くの国民が苦しい生活を強いられた。
Immediately after the defeat, Japan lacked food and supplies, and many citizens were forced to endure difficult lives.
USAGE:
When used without further context, 敗戦 in Japanese most often refers to Japan's defeat in World War II (1945). The word 終戦 (end of the war) is a more neutral alternative often used officially, while 敗戦 explicitly acknowledges defeat. In sports contexts, 敗戦 can also mean a loss or defeat in a game.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 敗戦後: after the defeat
- 敗戦国: defeated nation
- 敗戦の色が濃い: defeat appears imminent (lit. "the color of defeat is thick")
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 終戦: end of the war (neutral, avoids the word "defeat")
- 敗北: defeat (broader; applies to battles, elections, and competitions)