Translation guide
Describes something of mediocre or inferior quality, not among the best. In Japanese, this is commonly expressed with words like 二流, 二級, or 並, depending on context.
To describe a person, product, work, or establishment as not top-tier, mediocre, or subpar.
Literally 'second class/rate'. Used for people, organizations, or things that are not first-rate. Often carries a slightly negative nuance.
彼は二流の作家だ。
He is a second-rate writer.
あのホテルは二流だ。
That hotel is second-rate.
Means 'second grade/class'. Often used in official classifications, ratings, or rankings. Can sound more objective than 二流.
このワインは二級品だ。
This wine is second-rate.
Means 'average' or 'ordinary'. When used in compounds like 人並み or 標準並み, it implies mediocrity rather than excellence. Can be less harsh than 二流.
彼の料理の腕前は人並みだ。
His cooking skills are second-rate (just average).
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'unimpressive', 'mediocre', or 'lackluster'. Used for performances, results, or appearances.
彼の演技はぱっとしなかった。
His performance was second-rate.
Specifically for items, materials, or commercial products that are not of the best quality.
Means 'crude', 'inferior', or 'shoddy'. Often used for poorly made goods or materials.
粗悪な材料を使っている。
They are using second-rate materials.
Literally 'low quality'. A straightforward, slightly formal term for inferior quality.
Specifically 'second-grade goods'. Used in commercial or industrial contexts.
これは二級品として販売されている。
This is sold as second-rate goods.
To describe someone as not being among the best in their field, or of mediocre talent.
The most common and direct way to say a person is second-rate in their profession or skill.
彼は二流の俳優に過ぎない。
He is nothing more than a second-rate actor.
Means 'mediocre' or 'commonplace'. Emphasizes lack of exceptional talent. Often used in literary or critical contexts.
Originally a kabuki term for a handsome male lead, but can be used sarcastically to mean a 'second-rate' or 'wannabe' handsome man. Very context-dependent.
二流 is more subjective and often used for people or abstract quality. 二級 is more objective and used in formal classifications or ratings (e.g., 二級品).
彼は二流の歌手だ。
He is a second-rate singer.
このお茶は二級品です。
This tea is second-grade.
Do not directly translate 'second-rate' as 第二率 or similar. Use the established terms above.
二流のレストラン
a second-rate restaurant
あの映画は二流だった。
That movie was second-rate.
彼は二流の学者だ。
He's a second-rate scholar.
この製品は低品質だ。
This product is second-rate.
彼の才能は凡庸だ。
His talent is second-rate.
Only used for male actors or entertainers, and often with irony.
彼は二枚目俳優のつもりだろうが、実際は二流だ。
He thinks he's a handsome leading man, but he's actually second-rate.