Translation guide
The state of being unsuitable, unqualified, or not in proper condition for a purpose or role.
Expressing that someone or something is not suitable or appropriate for a particular purpose, situation, or role.
A common and neutral term meaning 'inappropriate' or 'unsuitable'. Used for actions, remarks, or conditions that are not fitting.
That remark was inappropriate.
This attire is unsuitable for the ceremony.
Means 'unsuitable' or 'not suited for', often referring to a person's aptitude or a thing's compatibility with a purpose.
He is not suited to be a teacher.
This land is unsuitable for farming.
The negative form of 適する (to suit), meaning 'not suitable' or 'does not fit'. Used in both formal and informal contexts.
This water is not fit for drinking.
He is not suited for that job.
Expressing that someone lacks the necessary skills, qualifications, or ability for a task or role.
Means 'disqualified' or 'ineligible', often used in formal contexts like job applications, competitions, or legal situations.
He was deemed ineligible due to the age limit.
Means 'incompetent' or 'inept'. Stronger and more negative than 不適格, implying a lack of ability.
Literally 'lack of ability', a straightforward way to say someone is not capable enough.
He was fired for incompetence.
Referring to a person's physical state being not healthy, not in shape, or not meeting required physical standards.
Used in legal, official, or procedural contexts where someone is barred from holding a position, participating, or being considered.
A formal term meaning 'disqualification' or 'lack of qualification', often used in legal statutes or official rules.
It falls under disqualifying conditions.
Means 'disqualification' as a result of a violation or failure to meet standards, common in sports and competitions.
不適切 (futekisetsu) is the most general for 'inappropriate' in social or formal contexts. 不向き (fumuki) emphasizes a mismatch of aptitude or suitability, often for people or things. 適さない (tekisanai) is a verb phrase meaning 'does not suit' and is more direct about lack of fitness for a purpose.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all meanings of 'unfitness'. Choose the term based on context: suitability, qualification, health, or legal status. Using a direct translation like 不適合 (futekigou) may sound technical or odd in everyday speech.
Ineligible persons cannot apply.
He is an incompetent boss.
I can't run long distances due to lack of fitness.
Specifically means 'lack of exercise', often used to describe a sedentary lifestyle leading to unfitness.
I gained weight due to lack of exercise.
反則で失格になった。
He was disqualified for a foul.