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.
政界の老害が問題になっている。
The problem of elderly people clinging to power in politics is an issue.
若手が活躍できないのは老害のせいだ。
The reason young talent can't shine is because of older people blocking the way.
組織の新陳代謝が進まないと老害が発生しやすい。
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.
あの人は老害だと陰で言われている。
That person is being called a troublesome old geezer behind their back.
店員に怒鳴る老害がいた。
There was an obnoxious old person yelling at a store clerk.
SNSで老害という言葉が批判的に使われることが増えている。
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.
CAUTION:
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:
- 老害と呼ばれる: to be called rougai
- 老害上司: a boss who won't step aside (derogatory)