Translation guide
The concept of inequality in Japanese can be expressed through words describing disparity, imbalance, or unfairness. The most common and versatile term is 不平等, but other words like 格差 or 不均衡 are used in specific contexts such as economic or social inequality.
Expressing that something is not equal or fair in treatment, opportunity, or distribution.
The most common and direct translation for 'inequality' in the sense of unfairness or lack of equality. Used in social, economic, and everyday contexts.
This law is unequal.
We should eliminate gender inequality.
Emphasizes unfairness or injustice, often in a more emotional or moral sense. Commonly used in complaints about treatment or rules.
That's unfair.
Refers to imbalance or lack of equilibrium, often used in formal or technical contexts like economics or ecology.
The trade imbalance has become a problem.
Referring to gaps between groups, such as income inequality or social class differences.
The standard term for 'disparity' or 'gap', especially in economic and social contexts. Often used in compounds like 所得格差 (income inequality).
Income inequality is widening.
We need to correct educational inequality.
Also used for economic inequality, but 格差 is more specific to measurable gaps.
Literally 'gap between rich and poor', a common phrase for wealth inequality.
The gap between rich and poor is growing.
Referring to the mathematical concept of inequality (e.g., x > y).
The mathematical term for 'inequality'. Used in algebra and calculus.
Solve this inequality.
不平等 is a neutral statement of inequality, while 不公平 carries a stronger sense of injustice or unfairness. Use 不公平 when complaining about something being unfair.
The rules are unfair.
When discussing social or economic inequality, 格差 is the most natural choice. It is often combined with nouns like 所得 (income), 教育 (education), or 地域 (regional).
Economic inequality is a serious problem.