Translation guide
The state of not taking action, doing nothing, or failing to act when action is expected. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through nouns, verbs, and set phrases that emphasize passivity, neglect, or deliberate non-intervention.
Describing a situation where no action is taken, often with a negative nuance of passivity or neglect.
A somewhat formal or literary noun meaning 'idleness' or 'inaction', often used in philosophical or critical contexts.
The government's inaction was criticized.
A formal or legal term for 'nonfeasance' or 'failure to act', often used in official contexts.
The administrative inaction became an issue.
A straightforward, neutral way to say 'doing nothing' or 'inaction'. Suitable for everyday conversation.
Inaction is the best policy.
Literally 'not taking action', a clear and direct way to express inaction.
Everyone was frustrated by his inaction.
Choosing not to act, often with a nuance of letting things take their natural course or avoiding interference.
Watching quietly without intervening; a wait-and-see attitude. Often used in business or political contexts.
We will watch the development of the situation without intervening.
Leaving something as it is, often with a negative connotation of neglect or abandonment.
Often implies negligence rather than a strategic choice.
Literally 'not lay a hand on', meaning to refrain from interfering or taking action.
He didn't intervene in that matter.
Being unable to take action due to indecision, fear, or external constraints.
The potential form of 動く (to move), meaning 'cannot move/act'. Used for physical or psychological paralysis.
I was paralyzed with fear (couldn't act).
Idiom meaning 'unable to move freely' or 'stuck', often used for situations where one is trapped and cannot act.
I'm stuck because of debt (can't take action).
Common sayings or proverbs that convey the idea of inaction or passivity.
Proverb meaning 'perseverance prevails' or 'even a stone will warm after three years of sitting'. Implies that patient inaction (waiting) can bring results.
They say perseverance pays off, so let's wait a bit longer.
A bystander or onlooker; someone who watches but does not act. Often used in contexts of social responsibility.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches all uses of 'inaction'. Choose the expression based on whether you mean passive idleness, deliberate non-intervention, or inability to act. Using 無為 in casual speech may sound overly formal or literary.
I was surprised by his inaction. (sounds formal/literary)
無為 is a general term for idleness or inaction, often used in philosophical or critical discourse. 不作為 is a legal/administrative term for failure to fulfill a duty. Use 不作為 when referring to official negligence or nonfeasance.
問題を放置してはいけない。
We must not leave the problem unattended (inaction is not an option).
彼はただの傍観者だった。
He was just a bystander (did nothing).