Translation guide
The English word "inexcusable" describes something that cannot be justified or forgiven. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, nouns, and set phrases that convey unforgivability, often with nuances of moral outrage, social unacceptability, or personal betrayal. The most common and versatile equivalent is 許せない (yurusenai), but other options carry stronger or more formal tones.
Expressing that an action, behavior, or situation cannot be forgiven or overlooked, often in personal or moral contexts.
His behavior is inexcusable.
Such an excuse is inexcusable.
A more formal and emphatic adjective meaning 'hard to forgive' or 'unforgivable'. Often used in writing or serious speech.
This is an inexcusable mistake.
Means 'unacceptable' or 'cannot be permitted'. More about standards or rules than personal forgiveness. Used in formal contexts.
This quality is inexcusable.
Emphasizing strong moral condemnation, often for serious offenses like betrayal, cruelty, or injustice.
Adds 'absolutely' or 'by no means' to 'cannot forgive', making it very emphatic. Suitable for strong personal condemnation.
His betrayal is absolutely inexcusable.
An archaic or literary expression meaning 'should not be forgiven'. Used for dramatic effect, often in fiction or formal declarations.
This crime is inexcusable.
Describing behavior that violates social norms, professional standards, or etiquette, and cannot be excused.
Passive form of 許す, meaning 'is not forgiven' or 'is not allowed'. Often used for actions that society or an authority does not permit. Slightly more impersonal than 許せない.
Lateness is inexcusable.
This kind of mistake is inexcusable.
A formal phrase meaning 'there is no room for excuse'. Used in official or serious contexts to state something is completely unjustifiable.
A noun meaning 'lack of discernment' or 'indiscretion', often used to criticize thoughtless or inexcusable behavior in formal settings.
許せない (yurusenai) is the speaker's personal feeling of being unable to forgive, while 許されない (yurusarenai) describes a situation where forgiveness is not granted by others or by social standards. Use 許せない for personal outrage, and 許されない for rules or societal norms.
I cannot forgive him. (personal)
Smoking is not allowed here. (rule)
Avoid directly translating 'inexcusable' as 言い訳できない (iiwake dekinai, 'cannot excuse'). While grammatically possible, it sounds unnatural. Stick to the expressions above.
A strong, formal idiom meaning 'outrageous' or 'preposterous', implying something is so bad it's beyond words. Often used in public statements or news.
That remark is inexcusable.
His failure is inexcusable.
His inexcusable thoughtlessness is appalling.