Translation guide
Expresses that a situation, condition, or action puts someone at a disadvantage or is unfavorable. Japanese uses adjectives, verbs, and set phrases rather than a single direct equivalent.
Describing a situation, condition, or factor that is not beneficial and may cause harm or loss.
The most direct and common adjective meaning 'disadvantageous' or 'unfavorable'. Used for conditions, positions, or situations.
These terms are disadvantageous for us.
不利な立場に立たされた。
I was put in a disadvantageous position.
Verb phrase meaning 'to become disadvantageous' or 'to put at a disadvantage'.
その決定は小さな会社に不利になる。
The decision will be disadvantageous to small companies.
Attributive form used before nouns, e.g., 'disadvantageous conditions'.
不利な状況でも諦めない。
I won't give up even in a disadvantageous situation.
Noun meaning 'disadvantage' or 'detriment'. Often used in formal or legal contexts.
その政策は国民に不利益をもたらす。
The policy brings disadvantage to the citizens.
Describing a factor that makes success more difficult, like a rule or physical condition.
Used when a rule or condition works against someone.
新しいルールは初心者に不利になる。
The new rule is disadvantageous for beginners.
Literally 'there is a handicap', used in sports or competitive contexts to mean being at a disadvantage.
経験が少ない分、ハンデがある。
I'm at a disadvantage because I have less experience.
Focusing on lack of benefit, often in business or economic contexts.
Means 'not worth it' or 'unprofitable' considering the effort or cost. Implies a disadvantageous trade-off.
この仕事は割に合わない。
This job is disadvantageous (not worth the effort).
Can also be used in economic contexts.
この契約は我が社に不利だ。
This contract is disadvantageous for our company.
English 'disadvantageous' is often replaced by simpler expressions in Japanese. Using 不利 is natural, but overusing it in casual speech may sound stiff. Consider rephrasing with ～にとって不利 or ～に不利になる.