Translation guide
The concept of unfairness in Japanese is expressed through words describing injustice, inequality, or bias. The most common and versatile term is 不公平 (fukōhei), but other words like 不正 (fusei) and 不平等 (fubyōdō) are used in specific contexts. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on the type of unfairness and the situation.
Expressing that a situation, treatment, or decision is not fair or just.
The most common and direct translation for 'unfairness'. It can be used in everyday conversation and formal contexts to describe situations where people are not treated equally or justly.
That's unfair.
I received unfair treatment.
Loanword from English 'unfair'. Used in casual conversation, often by younger people. It carries a slightly modern or trendy nuance.
That rule is unfair.
Referring to unfairness that involves moral wrong, corruption, or violation of rules.
Implies injustice, dishonesty, or illegality. Often used in contexts like cheating, fraud, or corruption. Stronger than 不公平.
Election fraud was reported.
He obtained money through unfair means.
Means unreasonable, unjust, or improper. Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe unfair treatment or decisions.
Focusing on unfairness due to unequal distribution, opportunities, or conditions.
Directly means 'inequality'. Used when emphasizing the lack of equality, such as in social issues or resource distribution.
Economic inequality is a problem.
Refers to disparity or gap, often in economic or social status. It implies a structural unfairness.
Unfairness arising from personal preferences or prejudice.
不公平 (fukōhei) is the most general term for unfairness in daily life. 不正 (fusei) implies wrongdoing or illegality. 不平等 (fubyōdō) specifically refers to inequality or lack of equal treatment. Choose based on whether the unfairness is about justice, rules, or equality.
In Japanese, it's often more natural to use the adjective form (不公平な) or verb phrases (不公平だ) rather than the abstract noun. For example, 'I felt the unfairness of the situation' is better expressed as 「状況が不公平だと感じた」 rather than trying to use a noun form.
The unfairness of the decision angered everyone.
Life is full of unfairness.
I protested against the unfair dismissal.
Revise the unequal treaty.
The income gap is widening.
データに偏りがある。
There is bias in the data.