Translation guide
The English word "unofficial" describes something not formally authorized or recognized. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, prefixes, and phrases depending on the context, such as informal settings, non-governmental status, or unverified information.
Describing an event, meeting, statement, or action that lacks official approval or formal status.
The most direct and common translation for 'unofficial' in formal contexts, meaning 'not official' or 'informal'. Used for events, meetings, announcements, etc.
This is an unofficial meeting.
There was an unofficial announcement.
Means 'unauthorized' or 'not officially recognized'. Often used for records, achievements, or groups that lack official endorsement.
That is an unofficial record.
Attributive form of 非公式, used before nouns to mean 'unofficial'.
I obtained unofficial information.
Describing a relaxed, non-ceremonial atmosphere or manner, as opposed to a formal, official one.
Means 'informal' or 'simplified', often used for ceremonies, dress codes, or procedures that are not strictly official.
Please come in unofficial attire.
Loanword from English 'casual', used for informal settings, clothing, or atmosphere. Not a direct translation of 'unofficial' but often used in similar contexts.
Referring to sources, reports, or actions that are not from an official government or authoritative body.
Means 'private' or 'non-governmental'. Used for organizations, statistics, or activities not run by the government.
According to an unofficial survey, the numbers differ.
Literally 'not government-authorized', used for documents or actions not sanctioned by the government.
The document is unofficial.
Describing a translation or adaptation not authorized by the original creator or publisher.
Describing a record or accomplishment not recognized by an official body, such as in sports or Guinness World Records.
Standard term for an unofficial record, especially in sports or competitions.
He set an unofficial record.
Referring to a strike not sanctioned by a union.
非公式 (hikōshiki) is the general term for 'unofficial' and can be used broadly. 非公認 (hikōnin) specifically means 'unauthorized' or 'not officially recognized', often implying a lack of approval from an authority. Use 非公式 for most situations; use 非公認 when emphasizing the absence of official endorsement.
Do not use 非公式 to describe a person as 'unofficial' (e.g., an unofficial spokesperson). Instead, use phrases like 非公式の代表 (hikōshiki no daihyō) or rephrase the sentence.
今日はカジュアルな集まりです。
Today is an unofficial gathering.
Unofficial translations may violate copyright.
An unofficial strike broke out at the factory.