不肖
Meanings
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
unworthy; not living up to
Expresses that one falls short of a respected predecessor, parent, or teacher. Often used in formal self-deprecation.
I am an unworthy disciple, and I can only feel ashamed before my teacher's teachings.
Humble first-person pronoun used by men in very formal or self-deprecating speech, often in letters or speeches.
I, unworthy as I am, will be in charge of this meeting.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', na-adjective, noun
incompetent; unskilled; foolish
Formal self-referential term for one's own lack of ability or poor judgment. Used humbly about oneself, not to describe others.
Though I am an incompetent person, I will do my best.
Archaic meaning; rarely used in modern Japanese outside historical or literary contexts.
In old documents, it is written as 'an unfortunate personal circumstance'.
Usage patterns
- 不肖の〈人〉an unworthy son/disciple/successor who falls short of a parent or mentor
He was an unworthy son in his father's eyes.
- 不肖〈人〉が〜used to humbly introduce oneself by name before stating one's role or action
I, Tanaka, will humbly serve as today's moderator.
- 不肖ながら〈動詞〉though I am unworthy/incompetent, I will (humbly do something)
Though I am unworthy, allow me to offer some guidance.