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.
彼の意見は一方的だ。
His opinion is one-sided.
一方的な判定に抗議した。
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.
その試合は不公平だった。
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.
偏った報道は問題だ。
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.
そのルールは一方的すぎる。
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.
その建物は非対称なデザインだ。
The building has an asymmetrical (one-sided) design.
Specifically 'left-right asymmetry'. Used when the two sides (left and right) are not mirror images.
この花は左右非対称だ。
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.
その耳は片方だけ大きいね。
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.
彼女に片思いしている。
I have a one-sided crush on her.
それは完全な片思いだよ。
That's completely one-sided love.
A phrase meaning 'only one side is making an effort'. Used to describe a one-sided effort in a relationship or project.
この関係は片方だけが努力している。
This relationship is one-sided; only one person is making an effort.
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).
一方的な試合だった。
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.
この花瓶は非対称だ。
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.
一方的な決定だが、不公平ではない。
It's a one-sided decision, but not unfair.
Literally 'one-way traffic'. Metaphorically used for a relationship where feelings or efforts flow only in one direction.
私たちの関係は一方通行だ。
Our relationship is one-sided (one-way).
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).