Translation guide
Describes something that cannot be identified, recognized, or determined. The most natural Japanese expressions depend on what is unidentifiable (object, person, cause, etc.) and the context.
原因は特定できない。
The cause is unidentifiable.
Expressing that something cannot be identified or recognized in a general sense.
Literally 'cannot specify/identify'. A common, neutral way to say something is unidentifiable. Used for objects, people, causes, etc.
その物体は特定できなかった。
The object was unidentifiable.
The cause is unidentifiable.
Means 'cannot distinguish/identify'. Often used when something cannot be told apart from others or recognized visually.
その指紋は識別できなかった。
The fingerprint was unidentifiable.
Means 'identity unknown'. Often used for mysterious objects, creatures, or people whose true nature is unknown.
正体不明の飛行物体が目撃された。
An unidentifiable flying object was sighted.
Means 'cannot distinguish/judge'. Used when something cannot be determined or differentiated, often in technical or analytical contexts.
その信号はノイズと判別できない。
The signal is unidentifiable from noise.
Referring to a person whose identity cannot be determined.
Specifically means 'identity unknown' for a person. Common in news reports about unidentified bodies or persons.
身元不明の遺体が発見された。
An unidentifiable body was found.
Casual, conversational way to say 'I don't know who it is' or 'unidentifiable person'.
誰だかわからない人が家の前に立っていた。
An unidentifiable person was standing in front of the house.
Describing a sound or voice that cannot be recognized.
Literally 'don't know what sound it is'. Natural for everyday situations.
何の音かわからないけど、外から聞こえた。
It was an unidentifiable sound, but I heard it from outside.
More dramatic or literary way to say 'mysterious/unidentifiable sound'.
深夜、正体不明の音が響いた。
Late at night, an unidentifiable sound echoed.
特定できない is broader and means 'cannot pinpoint/specify'. 識別できない is more about distinguishing one thing from another, often visually or by characteristics.
There is no single adjective 'unidentifiable' in Japanese. Use phrases like 特定できない or 正体不明 depending on context. Direct translations like 'アイデンティファイできない' are unnatural.
遺体は身元不明だった。
The remains were unidentifiable.
臭いの原因は特定できない。
The source of the smell is unidentifiable.