Translation guide
This phrase is used to emphasize that something is not at all worse than something else, often in a formal or emphatic way. In Japanese, this idea is typically expressed through comparative structures, adverbs, or set phrases rather than a single direct equivalent.
To strongly assert that A is not inferior to B in quality, ability, or value.
A common pattern using the verb 劣る (otoru, 'to be inferior'). The negative form 劣らず means 'not inferior' and is often used in formal or written contexts.
この製品は高級ブランドに劣らず品質が良い。
This product is by no means inferior in quality to high-end brands.
Adding 決して (kesshite, 'never') strengthens the negation, making it very emphatic. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
Both mean 'not inferior', but 引けを取らない is more idiomatic and often used in competitive contexts. 劣らない is more straightforward and formal.
彼の技術はプロに劣らない。
His skill is not inferior to a professional's.
彼の技術はプロに引けを取らない。
His skill is by no means inferior to a professional's.
Do not translate 'by no means' directly as 決して means ない (kesshite ... nai) without a proper negative verb. The phrase 'by no means inferior to' must be rendered as a negative comparative structure in Japanese.
彼女の演技はチャンピオンに決して劣らなかった。
Her performance was by no means inferior to the champion's.
この車は外国車に引けを取らない。
This car is by no means inferior to foreign models.
彼の能力は先輩に決して劣らない。
His abilities are by no means inferior to his seniors'.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'to be no match for' in the negative, i.e., 'not inferior'. Common in both speech and writing.
このレストランの味は有名店に引けを取らない。
The taste at this restaurant is by no means inferior to famous establishments.
A set phrase combining two verbs meaning 'to lose' and 'to be inferior', emphasizing equality. Often used in descriptions.
二人は負けず劣らずの実力だ。
The two are by no means inferior to each other in ability.
Using 少しも (sukoshi mo, 'not at all') with 劣らない for a strong, colloquial emphasis. More common in spoken Japanese.
この映画は原作に少しも劣らない面白さだ。
This movie is by no means inferior in entertainment value to the original work.