Translation guide
In Japanese, referring to an unmarried person depends heavily on context, age, and gender. There is no single neutral word that directly translates 'unmarried person' in all situations. Instead, Japanese uses terms like 独身 (dokushin) for 'single/unmarried' as a status, or specific words for older unmarried women or men. Often, the concept is expressed by saying someone is 'not married' rather than using a noun.
To refer to someone who is not married, focusing on their marital status, often in formal or informational contexts.
This is the most common and neutral word for 'single' or 'unmarried'. It can be used as a noun (e.g., 独身の人) or as a descriptor. It applies to both men and women, though it's more commonly used for adults past typical marriage age.
He is still single.
If you are single, please fill in here.
Literally 'unmarried person'. More formal and often used in official documents or statistics. 未婚 (mikon) specifically means 'not yet married'.
Unmarried persons, please check this box.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'person who is not married'. This is a very natural, everyday way to express the idea without using a specific noun.
Those who are not married, please raise your hands.
To refer to a woman who is past the typical marriage age and still unmarried. These terms can carry negative connotations, so use with caution.
A dated and often derogatory term for a woman who has missed her chance to marry. It literally means 'late in going' (to a husband's house). Avoid using this unless you understand the negative nuance.
This term is considered rude and sexist. It's included here for recognition, but not recommended for active use.
She is said to be an old maid.
Literally 'unsold goods', used metaphorically for an unmarried woman. Highly derogatory and offensive. Do not use.
Extremely offensive. Included only for passive understanding.
To refer to a man who remains unmarried, sometimes implying he is set in his ways or enjoys single life.
A somewhat playful or ironic term for a man who enjoys the single life and has disposable income. Literally 'single aristocrat'. It can be used for women too, but is more commonly associated with men.
He's enjoying the life of a carefree bachelor.
English 'unmarried person' is a noun phrase, but in Japanese it's often more natural to use an adjective or verb phrase (e.g., 独身だ, 結婚していない) rather than a noun. Using a noun like 未婚者 (mikonsha) can sound stiff and bureaucratic.
Japanese terms for unmarried people are often gender-specific and age-dependent. For example, 独身 is fine for both genders, but words like 行き遅れ are only for women and are offensive. When in doubt, use 独身 or describe the situation with a phrase.
She was treated like leftover goods.