Translation guide
Describes something or someone that is not liked, accepted, or favored by many people. Japanese expressions vary by context: general lack of popularity, personal dislike, or social rejection.
To say that something (a product, idea, policy, etc.) is not popular or widely accepted.
The most direct equivalent for 'unpopular' when referring to things, policies, or public figures. Often used in news or formal contexts.
That policy is unpopular.
This product was unpopular and didn't sell.
Literally 'has no popularity'. A natural, everyday way to say something is not popular. Can be used for people, things, or ideas.
That restaurant is unpopular, isn't it?
His opinion is unpopular in the class.
Means 'has a bad reputation'. Implies not just lack of popularity but active negative perception.
That movie is unpopular (has a bad reputation).
A more formal or written term for 'unpopular' or 'poorly received'. Often used in reviews or reports.
The new product was unpopular.
To describe a person who is not liked by others, often in a social context.
Passive form of 'dislike'. Means 'to be disliked'. Common for describing an unpopular person.
He is unpopular with his classmates (is disliked).
That teacher is unpopular with the students.
Also works for people, meaning they lack popularity or aren't favored.
He is unpopular with girls.
Can be used for people, especially public figures, but sounds a bit formal or objective.
To say that a particular choice, decision, or action is not favored by most people.
Negative passive of 'to like/prefer'. Means 'is not liked/preferred'. Suitable for choices or options.
That option will be unpopular.
Means 'not supported'. Used when talking about ideas, proposals, or candidates that lack backing.
That proposal was unpopular (not supported).
While 不人気 can be used for people, it sounds impersonal. For personal dislike, use 嫌われる or 好かれていない.
He is not liked by everyone (is unpopular).
不人気 is more formal and often used in writing or news. 人気がない is casual and common in everyday speech. Both mean 'unpopular', but 人気がない is more versatile.
その政治家は不人気だ。
That politician is unpopular.