Translation guide
The state or feeling of being unhappy. In Japanese, this is often expressed through adjectives like 不幸 (unfortunate) or 悲しい (sad), nouns like 不幸せ, or verbs describing emotional states. The most natural choice depends on whether you're describing a general state, a specific feeling, or a situation.
Describing a person's overall unhappy condition or lack of happiness in life.
A common noun/adjective meaning 'unhappiness' or 'misfortune'. Can describe a person's state or a situation. Often used in formal or written contexts, but also in everyday speech.
He lived an unhappy life.
Unfortunately, it started to rain.
Literally 'unhappiness', the direct opposite of 幸せ (happiness). More emotional and personal than 不幸. Common in spoken Japanese.
She looks unhappy.
Means 'sadness' or 'sorrow'. Focuses on the emotional feeling rather than the overall state. Often used for specific causes of unhappiness.
I am sunk in deep sadness.
Means 'melancholy' or 'gloom'. A more literary or psychological term for a persistent low mood. Not used casually.
I feel gloomy.
Expressing that you are currently feeling unhappy or sad.
The most common adjective for 'sad'. Use this for immediate feelings of unhappiness.
I feel kind of sad today.
Means 'feeling down/depressed'. Describes a low mood, often without a specific reason.
Literally 'not happy'. A direct way to say you are unhappy. Can sound blunt, so use with care.
I'm not happy with my current life.
Describing something that makes people unhappy.
不幸 (ふこう) often implies misfortune or bad luck, and can be used for situations (e.g., 不幸な事故 - an unfortunate accident). 不幸せ (ふしあわせ) is more personal and emotional, focusing on the lack of happiness. In daily conversation about feelings, 不幸せ or 悲しい are more natural than 不幸.
He died in an unfortunate accident.
She had an unhappy childhood.
English 'unhappiness' is often used as a noun, but in Japanese, it's more natural to use adjectives or verbs. Saying 私の不幸 (my unhappiness) can sound overly dramatic or literary. Instead, describe how you feel: 悲しいです (I'm sad) or 気分が良くないです (I don't feel good).
It was an unhappy marriage.
I became sad hearing that story.
I've been feeling down lately.