Translation guide
The English word 'unconscious' can refer to a medical state of being knocked out, a psychological state of unawareness, or an automatic action done without thinking. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Describing a person who is unconscious due to injury, illness, or anesthesia.
The most common and neutral term for being unconscious in a medical context. Often used in news reports and formal situations.
He is unconscious due to the accident.
An unconscious patient was brought in.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'has no consciousness'. Slightly more casual than 意識不明, but still widely used.
She is still unconscious.
Refers specifically to fainting or losing consciousness temporarily. Often used for sudden, short-term unconsciousness.
I fainted from the heat.
Means 'coma' or deep unconsciousness. Used in serious medical contexts.
He fell into a coma.
Describing a lack of awareness about one's own feelings, motives, or surroundings.
The standard translation for 'unconscious' in psychology. Used as an adjective modifying a noun.
unconscious bias
His actions were performed unconsciously.
Literally 'not noticing'. Used when someone is unaware of a specific fact or situation. More casual and concrete than 無意識.
He was unconscious of the danger.
Means 'lacking self-awareness' or 'not realizing' something about oneself. Often used for negative traits.
He is unconscious of his own faults.
Describing an action that is habitual or reflexive, not requiring conscious thought.
Adverbial form meaning 'unconsciously' or 'without thinking'. Used for automatic behaviors.
He has an unconscious habit of cracking his knuckles.
I was nodding unconsciously.
Literally 'without thinking'. More casual and direct than 無意識に.
I answered unconsciously.
Means 'reflexively'. Used when the action is an automatic physical response.
無意識 (muishiki) is for psychological or automatic unconsciousness. 意識不明 (ishiki fumei) is for medical unconsciousness. 気絶 (kizetsu) is for fainting or temporary loss of consciousness. Do not use 無意識 for a medical emergency.
He told a lie unconsciously.
He became unconscious due to the accident.
She fainted.
I unconsciously pulled my hand back after touching something hot.