Translation guide
The English word 'one-sided' can describe an unfair situation, a lopsided physical shape, or a relationship where only one party is active. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for each meaning.
Describing a situation, decision, or contest that is unfairly favorable to one side or lacks balance.
A common adjective meaning 'one-sided' in the sense of being unilateral, biased, or unfair. Often used for decisions, arguments, or actions that ignore the other party.
His opinion is one-sided.
We protested the one-sided ruling.
Means 'unfair' or 'inequitable'. Emphasizes the lack of fairness rather than just imbalance. Suitable when the one-sidedness is unjust.
That match was one-sided (unfair).
The past tense of 偏る (to be biased). Describes something that is skewed or biased, often used for opinions, information, or distribution.
Biased (one-sided) reporting is a problem.
Adds すぎる (too much) to 一方的, meaning 'too one-sided'. Used when criticizing extreme bias.
That rule is too one-sided.
Describing an object or shape that is uneven, with one side larger, heavier, or different from the other.
Means 'asymmetrical'. The standard technical term for lack of symmetry in shapes, designs, or arrangements.
The building has an asymmetrical (one-sided) design.
Specifically 'left-right asymmetry'. Used when the two sides (left and right) are not mirror images.
This flower is bilaterally asymmetrical (one-sided).
A descriptive phrase meaning 'only one side is big'. Natural in casual conversation when pointing out physical imbalance.
That ear is one-sided (bigger on one side), isn't it?
Describing a relationship or feeling where only one person is invested, such as unrequited love or one-sided effort.
Literally 'one-sided love', the standard term for unrequited love. Can also be used metaphorically for one-sided feelings in general.
I have a one-sided crush on her.
A phrase meaning 'only one side is making an effort'. Used to describe a one-sided effort in a relationship or project.
Describing a sports match or competition where one team or player dominates completely.
Also used for a one-sided game or match, meaning a lopsided victory. Often combined with 試合 (match) or 勝負 (contest).
It was a one-sided match.
A noun meaning 'overwhelming victory'. Implies a one-sided win by a large margin.
Means 'complete victory' or 'clean sweep'. Emphasizes winning without giving the opponent any chance.
While 一方的 can be used for abstract one-sidedness, it is not natural for physical asymmetry. Use 非対称 or descriptive phrases instead.
This vase is asymmetrical (one-sided).
一方的 focuses on the action being unilateral or ignoring the other side, while 不公平 emphasizes injustice or unfairness. A decision can be 一方的 without being 不公平 if it's within one's rights, but often they overlap.
It's a one-sided decision, but not unfair.
That's completely one-sided love.
Literally 'one-way traffic'. Metaphorically used for a relationship where feelings or efforts flow only in one direction.
Our relationship is one-sided (one-way).
This relationship is one-sided; only one person is making an effort.
我がチームの圧勝だった。
It was a one-sided victory for our team.
彼は完勝した。
He won in a one-sided manner (complete victory).