Translation guide
Expressing that a situation is unfortunate or regrettable. Japanese uses various expressions depending on formality, speaker's feeling, and whether it's about oneself or others.
That's a pity, isn't it?
It's a pity we lost the game.
Used when something was close to success or almost achieved, implying 'so close!' or 'what a shame!' Often used in sports or when missing an opportunity.
You were so close! What a pity!
Expresses that something is a waste or too good to waste. It can convey 'what a pity' when something valuable is not used properly.
It's a pity to throw it away when it's still usable.
Expresses sympathy or pity for someone's misfortune. Slightly more empathetic than 残念, focusing on the person's feelings.
I felt pity for him when I heard he was sick.
A very formal and emphatic way to say 'extremely regrettable'. Used in official statements or written apologies.
This outcome is extremely regrettable.
To show that you feel sorry for someone's situation.
Polite expression of sympathy, often used when someone has experienced a misfortune. Can be used as a standalone phrase.
Oh, that's a pity, that must have been tough.
Expresses pity or compassion, often for someone in a pitiful state. Can sound condescending if used inappropriately, so use with care.
Can sound patronizing if used about adults or equals.
Poor thing, he's all alone.
To react to disappointing news in a casual, conversational way.
残念 is the general 'it's a pity'. 惜しい is used when something was almost achieved or when you regret missing an opportunity. もったいない is about wastefulness or something being too good to waste.
It's a pity they didn't score.
The shot hit the post – so close!
It's a pity to leave such delicious food.
Do not directly translate 'a pity' as 哀れみ (あわれみ) or 同情 (どうじょう) in most contexts. Those words mean 'pity' in the sense of compassion or mercy, and can sound unnatural or overly dramatic for everyday disappointments.
It's a pity that you can't come.
What a pity!
It's a pity to waste such talent.