(ろうがい)

ろうがい
noun
harm caused by elderly in power; troublesome elderly person
informalslangperson
1. harm caused by elderly people clinging to power or authority
The negative effects on an organization or society when elderly people in positions of power refuse to step down and block progress or younger talent. Originally a sociopolitical term about gerontocracy in institutions.
政界(せいかい)老害(ろうがい)問題(もんだい)になっている。
The problem of elderly people clinging to power in politics is an issue.
The reason young talent can't shine is because of older people blocking the way.
When there's no generational turnover in an organization, problems from elderly entrenchment tend to occur.
2. troublesome or inconsiderate elderly person
A derogatory slang term used to describe an elderly person who behaves rudely, selfishly, or unreasonably. This usage has spread online and in colloquial speech.
That person is being called a troublesome old geezer behind their back.
店員(てんいん)怒鳴(どな)老害(ろうがい)がいた。
There was an obnoxious old person yelling at a store clerk.
The word 'rougai' is increasingly being used critically on social media.

Usage

Sense 1 (systemic/organizational) was the original meaning and is used in serious discussions about politics, business, and institutions. Sense 2 (derogatory label for individuals) has become widespread on social media and in informal speech, particularly among younger generations.

Watch out

This is a highly negative and potentially offensive term, especially in sense 2. Using it to describe a specific person is considered very rude. It is best understood for comprehension rather than active use in polite company.

Common collocations