Translation guide
The English word 'disagreeable' can describe people, things, or situations that are unpleasant, difficult, or not to one's liking. This guide helps learners express these nuances naturally in Japanese, from describing a disagreeable person to a disagreeable taste or experience.
Disagreeable weather, isn't it?
He always says disagreeable things.
More formal and stronger than 嫌な. Often used for physical discomfort or offensive situations.
There's a disagreeable smell.
His attitude was extremely disagreeable.
Literally 'does not suit one's taste'. Used when something is not to one's liking, often with a nuance of personal preference.
That color is disagreeable to me.
Describing someone who is unfriendly, hard to get along with, or unpleasant in character.
Describes a person who gives a bad impression, is unfriendly or disagreeable in manner.
That shop assistant is disagreeable.
Hard to associate with; difficult to get along with. Emphasizes the difficulty of social interaction.
He's a really disagreeable person to deal with.
Describing food or drink that tastes bad or is unpalatable.
The standard word for 'tastes bad'. Covers disagreeable taste in a broad sense.
This coffee is disagreeable (tastes bad).
Politer way to say something doesn't suit one's palate. Literally 'doesn't match the mouth'.
This dish is disagreeable to my taste.
Describing an experience that is unpleasant, awkward, or difficult to endure.
嫌な is the everyday word for 'disagreeable' and can be used in most situations. 不快な is stronger and more formal, often implying something offensive or physically uncomfortable. Use 不快な for serious complaints or written contexts.
There is no single Japanese adjective that perfectly matches all uses of 'disagreeable'. Instead, choose the expression that fits the specific context: unpleasantness, personal dislike, bad taste, or difficult personality.
Hard to please, moody, or touchy. Often used for someone who is disagreeable because they are easily offended or particular.
My grandfather has become disagreeable (hard to please).