Translation guide
The concept of irregularity covers a range of meanings from 'not following rules or patterns' to 'something uneven or inconsistent'. In Japanese, there is no single word that covers all uses. The best translation depends on what is irregular.
Describing actions, events, or things that deviate from established rules, standards, or what is normal.
The most common and general term for irregularity, meaning 'irregular', 'unsteady', or 'sporadic'. Used for patterns, schedules, and grammar.
He leads an irregular lifestyle.
Memorize the conjugation of irregular verbs.
Means 'irregular' in the sense of deviating from the norm or standard procedure. Often used for methods, rules, or arrangements.
We solved the problem using an irregular method.
Refers to something exceptional, unprecedented, or out of the ordinary. Often used for events or cases that break precedent.
He was promoted with irregular speed.
Means 'exception'. Use when irregularity is a specific case that does not follow the rule.
There are irregularities in this rule.
Describing surfaces, shapes, or distributions that are not smooth, even, or consistent.
Means 'uneven', 'not uniform', or 'irregular' in size, shape, or quality. Often used for sets of things.
They sell irregular vegetables cheaply.
Describes an uneven, bumpy surface. Literally 'convex-concave'. Used for roads, skin, etc.
Refers to unevenness in color, texture, or distribution. Often used for paint, cooking, or performance.
Describing something that is not steady or predictable, such as performance, heartbeat, or schedule.
Means 'irregular', 'unsettled', or 'abnormal'. Commonly used for weather, seasons, or bodily functions.
Crops won't grow due to irregular weather.
She suffers from irregular periods.
Medical term for 'arrhythmia' or irregular heartbeat.
Referring to words that do not follow standard conjugation or declension patterns.
English 'irregularity' is often used in formal or technical contexts. In casual Japanese, it's more natural to describe the specific type of irregularity (e.g., 'not fixed', 'uneven', 'different from usual') rather than using a single abstract noun.
この道は凸凹していて歩きにくい。
This road is irregular and hard to walk on.
The paint has irregularities.
Receive treatment for irregular heartbeat.
Means 'irregular conjugation'.
This verb has an irregular conjugation.