Translation guide
Expresses that something is impossible, unacceptable, or not worth considering. Japanese uses various set phrases and grammar patterns depending on the nuance.
To say that something cannot be done or is not a viable choice.
Literally 'outside the argument', meaning something is not even worth discussing. Strong and direct.
That proposal is out of the question.
Similar to 論外, meaning 'outside the question/problem'. Slightly less common but still natural.
A price increase is out of the question.
Pattern meaning 'something like ~ is impossible/unthinkable'. Emphasizes impossibility.
It's out of the question that he would apologize.
Strong denial pattern: 'there is no way that ~'. Used for logical impossibility.
It's out of the question that he would do such a thing.
To say that something is not permitted or cannot be tolerated.
Means 'absolutely unacceptable' or 'outrageous'. Often used in formal or written contexts.
Being late is out of the question.
Literally 'not forgiven/allowed'. Common in everyday speech.
Such behavior is out of the question.
Pattern meaning 'cannot afford to ~' or 'cannot be doing ~'. Implies the action is not an option under the circumstances.
Resting is out of the question right now.
To dismiss an idea as not even worth thinking about.
論外 and 問題外 are nearly interchangeable and mean 'out of the question' in the sense of 'not even worth discussing'. もってのほか is stronger and implies moral outrage or absolute unacceptability, often used in formal settings.
Do not translate 'out of the question' literally as 質問の外 (しつもんのそと). That is not a natural Japanese expression.