Translation guide
How to express doing something without permission in Japanese, from casual to formal, including warnings about literal translations.
The speaker did something without obtaining prior consent, often implying it was wrong or presumptuous.
The most common and natural way to say 'without permission' or 'on one's own authority'. Often carries a negative nuance of doing as one pleases.
He used my computer without permission.
Please don't enter the room without permission.
More formal than 勝手に. Often used in official contexts, rules, or written warnings. Literally 'without notice'.
Parking without permission will result in a fine.
You must not copy the materials without permission.
Directly means 'without permission'. Formal and often used in legal or procedural contexts.
Photography without permission is prohibited.
Literally 'without notice/announcement'. Used when someone does something without informing the relevant person, often in formal or written contexts.
He was absent from the meeting without permission.
Taking or using another person's property without their consent.
Going into a room, building, or area without authorization.
Duplicating content, documents, or media without authorization.
Do not translate 'without permission' word-for-word as 許可なしで (kyoka nashi de) in casual speech; it sounds stiff. Use 勝手に for everyday situations.
Don't look without permission.
勝手に is casual and subjective, implying the speaker feels it was done selfishly. 無断で is objective and formal, focusing on the lack of authorization. Use 勝手に in conversation, 無断で in rules or official notices.
Beyond this point, entry without permission is prohibited.
Unauthorized reproduction of this CD is prohibited by law.