Translation guide
The English word 'unworthy' can express a lack of merit, a feeling of not deserving something, or a moral failing. In Japanese, the most natural expressions depend on whether you're talking about yourself (humble) or others, and whether it's about deserving a reward, being unfit for a role, or a general sense of low self-worth.
To humbly express that you do not deserve praise, a reward, or an honor. Often used in formal or polite situations.
A humble expression meaning 'I am unworthy' or 'I feel undeserving' of a great honor or kindness. Commonly used in formal speeches or letters.
I am truly unworthy of receiving such an award.
Literally 'exceeding one's station', used to say that an honor or praise is more than one deserves. Very humble.
I am deeply moved by your words, which are more than I deserve.
Expresses that something is too good for you, often used casually. Can also mean 'wasteful', but in this context it's humble.
She is such a wonderful person, I feel unworthy of her.
To say that someone is not good enough for a task, role, or position. Can be used about oneself or others.
Means 'unqualified' or 'unfit'. Used in formal contexts like job applications or evaluations.
He was judged unworthy of the job.
Literally 'not worth', used to say someone does not deserve a title, trust, etc. Can sound harsh.
He is unworthy of trust.
Means 'not suitable for' or 'unworthy of'. A common and versatile pattern.
He is unworthy of that honor.
To describe a person or action as base, despicable, or lacking moral worth.
Means 'vulgar', 'base', or 'despicable'. Strongly negative.
I cannot forgive his unworthy conduct.
Means 'lowly', 'mean', or 'greedy'. Can describe character or actions.
Means 'shameful', 'pitiful', or 'despicable'. Often used for behavior driven by base desires.
To express a personal feeling of not being good enough, often in a psychological or emotional sense.
A direct way to say 'feel unworthy'. Common in self-help or counseling contexts.
She feels unworthy.
Means 'low self-esteem', often linked to feelings of unworthiness.
Direct translations like '価値がない' (kachigai nai) can sound harsh or overly literal. Use context-appropriate phrases instead.
When referring to yourself, use humble expressions like 恐れ多い or 身に余る. When criticizing others, 値しない or ふさわしくない are more direct and can be negative.
彼は金に卑しい。
He is unworthy in his greed for money.
I was disappointed by his unworthy behavior.
When you have low self-esteem, you tend to think you are unworthy.