Translation guide
The English phrase "great shame" expresses a strong feeling of disgrace, dishonor, or regret. In Japanese, this concept is often conveyed through nouns like 恥 (haji) or 不名誉 (fumeiyo), or through expressions of deep regret like 残念 (zannen). The appropriate translation depends on whether the shame is personal, public, or a matter of lost honor.
Expressing a strong sense of personal shame or loss of face, often due to one's own actions or a failure to meet social expectations.
He suffered a great shame.
It's a shame to do such a thing.
Means 'dishonor' or 'disgrace', often used in more formal contexts or when referring to a stain on one's reputation.
That is a great shame for the family.
Means 'humiliation' or 'mortification', implying a deep, often public, sense of shame and disgrace.
He couldn't bear the great shame.
Expressing that something is unfortunate or a pity, often used in the phrase 'it's a great shame'. This is less about personal disgrace and more about disappointment.
The most natural way to express 'it's a shame' in the sense of 'it's regrettable'. Often used with な (na) as an adjective or in phrases like 残念ながら (unfortunately).
Means 'regrettable' or 'too good to waste', often used when something is almost achieved or when a good opportunity is missed.
Referring to a situation that brings shame in the eyes of society, often involving a scandal or loss of face for a group.
Directly translating 'great shame' as 大きい恥 (ookii haji) is not natural. Instead, use phrases like 大きな恥 (ookina haji) or intensify with adverbs like とても (totemo) or 非常に (hijou ni) before 残念 or 恥.
That is a great shame.
恥 (haji) is used for personal disgrace or embarrassment, while 残念 (zannen) is for expressing regret over a situation. If you feel personally responsible, use 恥; if you are simply disappointed, use 残念.
It's a shame, but I can't go.
負けたのは惜しい。
It's a shame we lost.
It's a great shame that such talent isn't used.
その醜聞は会社に大きな恥をもたらした。
The scandal brought great shame to the company.