Translation guide
The English word "unreasonable" covers a range of situations where something is excessive, unfair, illogical, or stubborn. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent. The best choice depends on whether you are describing a demand, a person, a situation, or an expectation.
When something goes beyond what is fair or acceptable, such as an unreasonable demand, price, or workload.
The most common and versatile word for 'unreasonable.' It means something is impossible, excessive, or beyond reason. Often used for demands, expectations, or situations that are too much to handle.
That's an unreasonable demand.
This price is unreasonable.
Specifically for prices or fees that are outrageously high, beyond what is reasonable.
I was charged an unreasonable fee.
Means 'excessive' or 'undue.' More formal and often used in written contexts for things like pressure, demands, or workload.
Please refrain from unreasonable demands.
When something lacks logic or common sense, such as an unreasonable argument or decision.
Directly means 'irrational' or 'illogical.' Used for arguments, rules, or decisions that don't make sense.
That rule is unreasonable.
Implies something is unreasonable and unfair, often with a sense of frustration or injustice. Common in everyday speech for situations that feel unjust.
Literally 'illogical.' More technical and less common in daily conversation.
When a person is being unreasonable by refusing to compromise or see reason.
Means 'stubborn.' Often used when someone is unreasonably fixed on their own opinion or way.
He's so stubborn; you can't reason with him.
Literally 'can't get through to them.' Describes a person who won't listen to reason.
That person is unreasonable; you can't talk sense into them.
When something is unreasonable because it is unfair or violates a sense of justice.
Means 'unjust' or 'unfair.' Often used in legal, business, or formal contexts for unreasonable treatment, dismissal, or demands.
It's an unreasonable dismissal.
I cannot comply with unreasonable demands.
Simply 'unfair.' Common in everyday speech for situations that are not equitable.
無理 (muri) is the most common and versatile, covering impossibility and excess. 不合理 (fugōri) is more about logical inconsistency. 理不尽 (rifujin) adds a strong emotional tone of unfairness and frustration. Use 無理 for everyday 'unreasonable' demands or situations; use 不合理 for arguments or rules that don't make sense; use 理不尽 when you feel personally wronged.
There is no single Japanese word that maps perfectly to 'unreasonable' in all contexts. Translating directly as 非合理的 (higōriteki) or 無理な (muri na) without considering the nuance can sound unnatural. Always choose based on the specific meaning you want to convey.
His argument was unreasonable.
理不尽な扱いを受けた。
I was treated unreasonably.
I got scolded for something unreasonable.
That conclusion is unreasonable.
Idiom meaning 'doesn't lend an ear,' i.e., refuses to listen. Emphasizes the person's unwillingness to consider others' views.
He's completely unreasonable; he won't listen at all.
That's unreasonable (unfair).