Translation guide
The English word "unguarded" has several distinct meanings. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression depending on whether you mean unprotected, careless, or candid.
Describing a place, object, or position that is vulnerable because no one is watching or protecting it.
Literally 'defenseless' or 'unprotected'. Used for physical places, objects, or even people who are vulnerable.
その建物は無防備だった。
The building was unguarded.
無防備な状態で敵に攻められた。
They were attacked by the enemy in an unguarded state.
Means 'not being guarded/watched'. Emphasizes the lack of surveillance or alertness.
その入り口は警戒されていなかった。
The entrance was unguarded.
Simply 'not protected'. Can be used for objects, places, or people.
その橋は守られていなかった。
The bridge was unguarded.
Means 'unwatchful' or 'without vigilance'. Often used in security contexts.
無警戒の国境を越えた。
They crossed the unguarded border.
Describing words or actions done without thinking about the consequences, often revealing something unintended.
Means 'careless' or 'unprepared'. Commonly used for remarks that slip out.
不用意な発言で彼を怒らせた。
He angered him with an unguarded remark.
不用意に秘密を漏らしてしまった。
I carelessly let the secret slip.
Means 'rash' or 'thoughtless'. Stronger than 不用意, implies a lack of consideration.
Describes a careless mistake or slip. Often used for momentary lapses.
うっかりした一言で雰囲気が悪くなった。
The mood turned sour because of one unguarded comment.
Means 'indiscreet' or 'imprudent'. Formal and somewhat literary.
Describing a person or a moment when someone is relaxed and speaks honestly, without their usual defenses.
Literally 'let down one's guard'. Describes a state of being relaxed and open.
警戒を解いた瞬間、本音を話した。
In an unguarded moment, he spoke his true feelings.
Can also mean emotionally vulnerable or open. Often used for someone who is candid because they are off-guard.
無防備な笑顔を見せた。
She showed an unguarded smile.
無防備な態度で接してくれた。
He treated me with an unguarded attitude.
Means 'natural' or 'unadorned'. Used for someone's true self without pretense.
素の自分を見せられる友達。
A friend with whom I can be unguarded.
Literally 'allowed one's heart to be at ease'. Implies trusting someone enough to be unguarded.
心を許した相手にだけ弱音を吐く。
He only complains to people he is unguarded with.
The English word "unguarded" covers several distinct concepts. Using a single Japanese word for all situations will sound unnatural. Always consider the intended meaning first.
× 彼は無防備な発言をした。
He made an unguarded remark. (unnatural)
○ 彼は不用意な発言をした。
He made an unguarded remark. (natural)
無防備 is about being physically or emotionally defenseless. 不用意 is about being careless with words or actions. They are not interchangeable.
城は無防備のままだった。
The castle was left unguarded.
警戒を解いた瞬間、彼女は秘密を明かした。
In an unguarded moment, she revealed her secret.
彼の不用意なコメントが問題を起こした。
His unguarded comments caused trouble.
軽率な行動で信用を失った。
He lost trust through his unguarded actions.
無分別な言葉は慎むべきだ。
You should refrain from unguarded words.