Translation guide
Expressing that someone or something holds a low position in a hierarchy, such as in a job, organization, or social status.
Describing a person, job, or status that is not high in an organization or social order.
A general and neutral way to say 'low rank' or 'low status'. Can be used for jobs, social standing, etc.
彼は会社で低い地位にいる。
He holds a low rank in the company.
Referring to a low rank in systems like judo, karate, or tea ceremony, where ranks are often named (e.g., kyu vs. dan).
The term for ranks below black belt (dan) in martial arts, or lower ranks in other traditional arts. Often used with a number, e.g., 10級 (じゅっきゅう) is the lowest.
Specifically for sumo wrestlers, who have a detailed ranking system.
地位 (ちい) refers to social or organizational status, while ランク (rank) is a loanword often used for numerical or competitive rankings. For 'low rank' in a general sense, 低い地位 is more natural than 低いランク.
彼は低い地位に甘んじている。
He is content with his low rank.
The phrase 'low rank' can be translated literally as 低いランク, but this sounds unnatural in many contexts. Use 低い地位 for status, or specific terms like 下位 for rankings.
Literally 'lower rank'. Often used in rankings, competitions, or formal hierarchies.
彼はテストで下位だった。
He was low-ranked in the test.
A more formal or technical term for 'low rank', often used in statistics or economic contexts.
その国は経済的に低位にある。
That country is economically low-ranked.
He is still a low rank in judo.
The first black belt rank, which is the lowest dan rank. Not exactly 'low rank' but the entry point to higher ranks.
彼は空手で初段を取った。
He got his first-degree black belt in karate.
The lowest division in professional sumo. A wrestler at this rank is a beginner.
彼はまだ序ノ口です。
He is still at the lowest sumo rank.
The second-lowest division in sumo, just above Jonokuchi.
彼は序二段に昇進した。
He was promoted to the second-lowest sumo rank.