Translation guide
Describes a person, action, or attitude that lacks a sense of responsibility, fails to consider consequences, or is careless and unreliable. Japanese expressions vary by nuance: moral blame, thoughtlessness, lack of planning, or untrustworthiness.
To describe a person or behavior that is morally or socially irresponsible, often implying negligence or disregard for duty.
The most direct and common translation. Used for people, remarks, or actions that are irresponsible and show a lack of accountability.
I was surprised by his irresponsible remark.
I can't forgive such an irresponsible attitude.
Predicate form used to say someone or something is irresponsible.
He is really irresponsible.
Literally 'has no sense of responsibility.' Describes a person's character rather than a single action.
That person has no sense of responsibility, so I can't entrust important work to them.
To describe actions or decisions made without thinking about the negative outcomes, often impulsive or reckless.
Means rash, thoughtless, or imprudent. Often used for hasty actions or remarks that lead to trouble.
His rash actions caused damage to the company.
Indiscreet, imprudent, lacking good judgment. Slightly formal and often used in written contexts.
Literally 'without thinking.' Casual and direct, often used in spoken criticism.
Saying something like that without thinking is terrible.
To describe a person who cannot be depended on to do what they should, often letting others down.
Means irresponsible, half-hearted, or sloppy. Commonly used for people who don't take things seriously.
He is irresponsible in his work and often makes mistakes.
Also covers unreliability when someone shirks duties.
Not serious, lacking diligence. Often used in school or work contexts for someone who doesn't try hard.
To describe someone who avoids accountability, makes excuses, or blames others.
無責任 (むせきにん) focuses on lack of accountability and moral responsibility. いい加減 (いいかげん) emphasizes sloppiness, half-heartedness, and unreliability. A person can be いい加減 without being morally blameworthy, but 無責任 usually carries a stronger negative judgment.
Avoid directly translating 'irresponsible' as 無責任 in all cases. For example, 'irresponsible spending' is better translated as 計画性のない支出 (spending without planning) or 無駄遣い (wasteful spending), not 無責任な支出.
I made a thoughtless remark and regret it.
無分別な投資で財産を失った。
He lost his fortune through imprudent investments.
I wish you wouldn't make half-hearted promises.
無責任な人に頼むと、後で困ることになる。
If you ask an irresponsible person, you'll regret it later.
不真面目な学生は単位を落としやすい。
Irresponsible students tend to fail their courses.
Blaming others for your mistakes is irresponsible.