noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
immorality; injustice; misconduct
Broadly refers to acts that violate moral or social norms, often implying betrayal or lack of righteousness. Can be used in formal or literary contexts.
彼の行動は不義と非難された。
His actions were condemned as immoral.
不義の金は受け取れない。
I cannot accept money gained through injustice.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
Specifically refers to marital unfaithfulness or an extramarital affair. Often used in the phrase 不義の子 (illegitimate child).
彼は妻の不義を知って激怒した。
He flew into a rage when he learned of his wife's infidelity.
不義の子として生まれた。
He was born as an illegitimate child.
noun, noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no'
murder of one's teacher or a government official (archaic)
Archaic legal term from the 八虐 (eight unpardonable crimes) in the Ritsuryō system. Refers specifically to killing one's teacher or a government official. Not used in modern Japanese outside historical contexts.
See also: 八虐
律令制では、不義は八虐の一つとされた。
Under the Ritsuryō system, 不義 was considered one of the eight unpardonable crimes.