Translation guide
The English word 'untouchable' has several distinct meanings: literally impossible to touch, socially forbidden to criticize or approach, and a historical term for a social outcast. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each context.
That shelf is too high; I can't reach it.
Potential negative form of 触れる (to touch). Means 'cannot be touched', often due to being protected, dangerous, or sacred.
The artwork is in a glass case and cannot be touched.
Means 'unreachable' in a more abstract or goal-oriented sense. Used for targets, standards, or distant locations.
The summit was unreachable due to bad weather.
Describing a person or group that is immune to criticism, punishment, or legal consequences.
Literally 'cannot lay a hand on'. Implies that someone is too powerful or protected to be challenged or punished.
He's the company president's son, so no one can touch him.
Simply means 'cannot criticize'. Used when someone is considered beyond reproach or too respected to be criticized.
Means 'sanctuary' or 'sacred ground'. Metaphorically used for a person or topic that is off-limits to criticism.
Referring to the historical 'untouchable' caste in South Asia, or by extension any severely marginalized group.
Direct translation of 'untouchable' in the context of the Indian caste system. This is a historical and academic term.
The untouchables in India have suffered discrimination for a long time.
Loanword from English 'outcaste'. Used in discussions of social hierarchy, but less common than 不可触民.
General term for 'discriminated people', often used for Japan's own historical outcast groups (burakumin). Can be used comparatively.
Describing an athlete or performance that seems impossible to defeat or surpass.
Directly translating 'untouchable' as 触れられない in social contexts will sound unnatural. Use phrases like 手出しができない or 批判できない instead.
He's untouchable because he has power.
Her achievements are so great that she is beyond criticism.
皇室は報道において聖域と見なされることがある。
The imperial family is sometimes regarded as a sanctuary in the media.
They were treated as outcastes.
Learn about the history of Japan's discriminated communities.
Literally 'cannot lay a hand on'. Used when someone is so dominant that opponents can't compete.
His play is so good it's untouchable.