Translation guide
Describes the state of having nothing in one's hands, often implying arriving or leaving without a gift, result, or possession. Japanese expresses this through specific phrases and verbs rather than a single noun.
To describe going to someone's house or an event without bringing a present or offering.
The most common and natural way to say 'empty-handed' when visiting someone. It literally means 'with empty hands' and is used as an adverb.
手ぶらで友達の家に行くのはちょっと気が引ける。
I feel a bit awkward going to a friend's house empty-handed.
手ぶらで来てくださいね。
Please come without bringing anything.
Specifically means 'without a small gift (usually food) brought when visiting'. More explicit than 手ぶらで.
手土産なしでお邪魔するのは失礼でしょうか。
Is it rude to visit without bringing a small gift?
To describe coming back from an errand, trip, or attempt without the desired item or result.
Used when returning empty-handed, often after failing to buy, find, or achieve something.
売り切れで手ぶらで帰ってきた。
It was sold out, so I came back empty-handed.
釣りに行ったけど手ぶらで帰った。
I went fishing but came back empty-handed.
A more literal way to say 'return without holding anything'. Slightly more formal or written.
彼は何も持たずに帰ってきた。
He came back empty-handed.
To describe the physical state of not holding anything.
A straightforward description of empty hands. Neutral and clear.
彼は手に何も持っていなかった。
He wasn't holding anything in his hands.
Can be used as a noun meaning 'empty-handed state', but more commonly used as 手ぶらで.
手ぶらは寂しいから、何か買っていこう。
It feels lonely to be empty-handed, so let's buy something.
To describe a situation where someone has nothing, often after a loss or starting from scratch.
Means 'penniless' or 'without a single coin'. Used when someone has no money or possessions.
彼は無一文でこの街に来た。
He came to this town empty-handed (with nothing).
Literally 'unarmed', but can metaphorically mean 'without any resources or preparation'. Use carefully.
交渉に丸腰で行くのは危険だ。
Going into negotiations empty-handed (unprepared) is dangerous.
手ぶら is a general term for empty-handed, while 手土産なし specifically refers to the absence of a gift when visiting. Use 手ぶら for most situations.
手ぶらで来てと言われたが、手土産なしでは行きにくい。
I was told to come empty-handed, but it's hard to go without a small gift.
Avoid directly translating 'empty-handed' as 空の手 (からので). This is not natural Japanese. Use 手ぶら or the phrases above.