Translation guide
How to express a failing grade or score in Japanese, from formal academic contexts to casual slang.
The most common and neutral way to say a failing grade or score in school.
Literally 'red mark', this is the standard term for a failing grade in Japanese schools. It refers to a score below the passing threshold, often written in red ink.
I got a failing grade in math.
Means 'failure' or 'not passing' and is used for exams, courses, or certifications. More formal than 赤点 and can apply to any test or qualification.
I failed the exam.
Refers to failing a grade level or course, often implying having to repeat a year. Less common in modern everyday speech but still used in formal contexts.
He failed a grade in high school.
Specifically referring to a numerical score that is below the passing mark.
Verbs and expressions for the action of failing.
Casual and very common verb meaning 'to fail' (literally 'to fall'). Used for exams, tests, and courses.
I failed the final exam.
Formal expression meaning 'to become failing' or 'to be rejected'. Used in official contexts.
General verb for 'to fail' or 'to make a mistake'. Can be used for tests but is broader and less specific than 落ちる.
I failed the exam.
赤点 is the most common and natural term for a failing grade in everyday school life. 不合格 is more formal and used for official exam results, certifications, or when the failure is recorded on a transcript. In casual conversation among students, 赤点 is preferred.
I got a failing grade, but passed after remedial classes.
I failed the driver's license test.
Do not directly translate 'failing grade' as 失敗成績 or 落ちる成績. These sound unnatural. Use 赤点 or 不合格点 instead.
I got a failing grade on the test.
A failing grade is below 60%.
赤点は30点未満だ。
A failing grade is below 30 points.
I failed the interview.