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.
Specifically referring to a numerical score that is below the passing mark.
A direct translation of 'failing score', used in formal or written contexts.
合格点は70点で、不合格点は69点以下です。
The passing score is 70, and a failing score is 69 or below.
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.
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.
赤点取ったけど、補習で合格した。
I got a failing grade, but passed after remedial classes.
運転免許の試験は不合格でした。
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.
テストで赤点を取った。
I got a failing grade on the test.
赤点は60%未満です。
A failing grade is below 60%.
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.
試験は不合格だった。
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.
彼は高校で落第した。
He failed a grade in high school.
Also used for the numerical failing mark itself, especially in school settings.
赤点は30点未満だ。
A failing grade is below 30 points.
期末試験に落ちた。
I failed the final exam.
Formal expression meaning 'to become failing' or 'to be rejected'. Used in official contexts.
面接で不合格になった。
I failed the interview.