Translation guide
The English word "underhand" has two main meanings: a physical throwing or striking motion (as in sports), and a figurative meaning of deceitful or secretive behavior. This guide covers both, with Japanese equivalents for each.
Describing an underarm throw, pitch, or strike, where the arm moves forward and upward from below the shoulder.
Standard term for an underhand throw or pitch in sports like baseball or softball.
Describing actions that are dishonest, sneaky, or done in a way that hides true intentions.
Adjective meaning cowardly, unfair, or sneaky. Often used to describe underhanded tactics.
それは卑怯なやり方だ。
That's an underhand way of doing things.
Avoid directly translating 'underhand' as 手の下 (te no shita) or similar literal phrases. Use the established terms 下手投げ or アンダースロー for sports contexts.
卑怯な (hikyou na) is stronger and more formal, implying cowardice and unfairness. ずるい (zurui) is more common in everyday speech for sly or cunning behavior. Both can translate 'underhand' in the deceitful sense.
彼は下手投げでボールを投げた。
He threw the ball underhand.
Loanword from English, commonly used in baseball contexts for an underhand pitching style.
その投手はアンダースローで投げる。
That pitcher throws underhand.
Descriptive phrase meaning 'to throw from below', used when the specific term is not needed.
下手から投げてもいいですか？
Is it okay if I throw underhand?
Common word for sly, cunning, or unfair. More casual than 卑怯な.
彼のずるい手口に騙された。
I was tricked by his underhand methods.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'secretly and sneakily', emphasizing the hidden nature of the action.
彼は陰でこそこそと悪口を言う。
He speaks ill of others in an underhand way.
Refers to behind-the-scenes maneuvering or underhanded scheming, often in politics or business.
その政治家は裏工作で地位を得た。
That politician gained his position through underhand dealings.