Translation guide
Describes actions, conditions, or treatment that lack compassion, mercy, or basic human decency, often causing extreme suffering.
Describing actions, treatment, or conditions that are merciless and cause suffering.
Describing living or working conditions that strip away human dignity.
Literally 'not treated as a human'. Conveys the sense of being denied basic dignity.
難民キャンプでは人として扱われない生活を強いられている。
In the refugee camp, they are forced to live in inhumane conditions.
非人道的 is the most formal and directly corresponds to 'inhumane', often used in legal or social contexts. 残酷 emphasizes cruelty and brutality, while むごい is more emotional and often used in everyday speech for tragic or pitiless situations.
非人間的 (ひにんげんてき) exists but is less common and can sound unnatural. Stick to 非人道的 for most contexts.
The most direct equivalent, used for actions or policies that violate human dignity. Common in formal and written contexts.
その刑務所の非人道的な扱いが問題になった。
The inhumane treatment at that prison became an issue.
Means 'cruel' or 'brutal'. Emphasizes the harshness of an act. Often used for physical cruelty.
動物に対する残酷な行為は許されない。
Cruel acts toward animals are unforgivable.
Describes something pitiless, harsh, or tragic. Often used for situations that evoke a strong emotional response.
彼のむごい最期を聞いて涙が出た。
I cried when I heard about his cruel death.
Means 'heartless' or 'cold-blooded'. Implies a lack of emotion or mercy. Often used in literary or dramatic contexts.
非情な決断を下さなければならなかった。
I had to make a heartless decision.
Means 'cannot live a life worthy of a human'. Used for conditions lacking basic necessities or dignity.
この給料では人間らしい生活ができない。
With this salary, I can't live a decent human life.