Translation guide
Describes something that is not refined, not shiny, or not finished. Covers literal surfaces (unpolished rice, unpolished stone) and figurative lack of sophistication (unpolished manners, unpolished writing).
Describing a surface that has not been polished, buffed, or smoothed.
The most direct way to say 'unpolished' for surfaces. Literally 'have not polished'. Use this for things like unpolished floors, stones, or metal.
This floor is still unpolished.
Passive form meaning 'has not been polished'. Slightly more formal or objective than 磨いていない.
Unpolished stones are rough.
Technical term meaning 'unpolished' or 'unground', used in manufacturing or gemology. Not for everyday conversation.
Unpolished lenses cannot be used.
Specifically referring to rice that has not been milled to remove the bran.
Describing a person, skill, or work that is rough, crude, or not yet perfected.
Means 'unrefined' or 'unsophisticated'. Used for manners, taste, writing style, etc. A safe, common choice.
His way of speaking is still unpolished.
Literally 'rough-hewn'. Implies something is unpolished but has potential or raw energy. Often positive in a 'diamond in the rough' sense.
Means 'unpolished' in the sense of lacking urbanity or style. Often used for appearance or demeanor. Slightly negative.
She's still unpolished, but cute.
Means 'immature' or 'unskilled'. Focuses on lack of experience or development. Common for skills.
I apologize for my unpolished writing.
Means 'unrefined', 'uncouth', or 'rustic'. Stronger negative nuance, implying lack of taste or sophistication. Use carefully.
Describing a person or thing with great potential that hasn't been developed yet.
Literally 'rough gemstone'. Used metaphorically for a person with raw talent. Very common and positive.
He's still an unpolished gem, but I'm excited about his future.
Specifically 'diamond in the rough'. A set phrase for someone with hidden brilliance.
That newcomer is a diamond in the rough.
粗削り (arakuzuri) often has a positive nuance of 'unpolished but promising', while 洗練されていない (senren sarete inai) is neutral or slightly negative, simply stating a lack of refinement. Use 粗削り for talent or potential, and 洗練されていない for general lack of polish.
Do not use 磨いていない (migaite inai) for abstract concepts like 'unpolished manners'. It sounds like you physically didn't polish something. Use 洗練されていない or 粗削り instead.
Unpolished rice is rich in nutrients.
His acting is still unpolished, but I can sense his talent.
Those clothes are a bit unpolished, aren't they?