Translation guide
Describes a person, thing, or idea that is not appealing or pleasing. Japanese has many nuanced words for physical unattractiveness, lack of charm, or undesirable qualities. The best choice depends on context, politeness, and whether you're talking about appearance, personality, or general appeal.
Describing someone's physical appearance as not good-looking, ranging from mild to blunt.
Common, somewhat blunt word for an unattractive face or appearance. Often used for men. Can be insulting, so use with care.
He's unattractive, but he has a good personality.
Slang for an ugly woman. Very direct and insulting. Avoid in polite conversation.
Highly offensive; only used in very casual, often joking contexts among close friends.
That girl is ugly, isn't she?
Literary or formal word for 'ugly'. Can describe physical appearance or abstract things like behavior. Stronger and more objective-sounding than 不細工.
She thinks she is ugly.
Means 'uncool' or 'lame' in appearance or style. Not directly 'ugly', but implies unattractiveness due to lack of style.
Those clothes are unattractive.
Describing something that lacks appeal, is undesirable, or fails to attract interest.
Polite, neutral way to say 'not attractive' or 'lacks appeal'. Safe for most situations.
That proposal is not very attractive.
More direct: 'has no charm/appeal'. Slightly stronger than 魅力的ではない.
This town is unattractive.
Colloquial phrase meaning 'unimpressive', 'dull', or 'not striking'. Often used for appearance, performance, or results.
His presentation was unattractive (unimpressive).
Means 'dull', 'gloomy', or 'unappealing'. Often used for weather, mood, or a person's expression/look.
The weather is unattractive today, isn't it?
Describing someone's character or actions as unpleasant, off-putting, or repulsive.
Common phrase for 'gives a bad impression' or 'unpleasant'. Covers both appearance and attitude.
His attitude is unattractive.
Adjective meaning 'disagreeable', 'unpleasant', 'detestable'. Stronger than 感じが悪い.
He's an unattractive guy (unpleasant person).
Means 'unsightly' or 'shameful' in behavior or appearance. Often used for disgraceful conduct.
English 'unattractive' can sound mild, but direct Japanese equivalents like 不細工 or ブス are often harsher. Use 魅力的ではない or 感じが悪い for softer, more polite expressions.
不細工 is casual and specifically about facial unattractiveness, often used for men. 醜い is more literary and can describe abstract ugliness (e.g., 醜い争い 'ugly conflict').
His behavior was unattractive (disgraceful).