Translation guide
Expressing that you think something is wrong, bad, or not acceptable. Japanese often avoids direct confrontation, so disapproval is frequently shown through indirect phrasing, softening expressions, or non-verbal cues.
Expressing that you think something is not good, not right, or not acceptable in a general sense.
A soft, indirect way to say you disapprove. Literally 'I think it's not good.' This is the safest default for expressing personal disapproval without sounding harsh.
そのやり方は良くないと思う。
I don't think that way of doing it is good.
Literally 'I cannot agree.' A polite but clear way to show disapproval, often used in formal or professional settings.
その提案には賛成できません。
I cannot agree with that proposal.
A very common way to indirectly show disapproval by trailing off. The implication is that something is not quite right or acceptable. Often accompanied by a hesitant tone.
A: この服どう？ B: それはちょっと…
A: How's this outfit? B: That's a bit... (implying disapproval)
A direct and informal way to say something is not allowed or not good. Can sound blunt, so use with caution.
Can sound harsh or childish if used in formal situations.
そんなことしちゃダメだよ。
You shouldn't do that. (lit. That's no good.)
Expressing that something is morally wrong or unethical.
Means 'unforgivable' or 'I can't forgive.' Strongly expresses moral disapproval.
彼の行動は許せない。
His actions are unforgivable.
A formal way to say something is morally problematic.
その政策は道徳的に問題がある。
That policy is morally problematic.
Showing that someone's behavior or manners are not appropriate.
Means 'bad manners' or 'ill-behaved.' Commonly used to scold children or comment on someone's conduct.
電車の中で大声で話すのは行儀が悪い。
Talking loudly on the train is bad manners.
Means 'rude' or 'impolite.' Can be used to directly call out disrespectful behavior.
そんな言い方は失礼だ。
That way of speaking is rude.
Expressing disapproval in an official, institutional, or formal context, such as rejecting a plan or application.
Formal term for 'disapproval' or 'non-approval,' used in official decisions.
申請は不承認となりました。
The application was disapproved.
Means 'denial' or 'disapproval,' often used in legal or accounting contexts.
Communicating disapproval through gestures, facial expressions, or indirect cues rather than words.
Japanese often shows disapproval by remaining silent, giving vague replies like 'さあ' (well...), or avoiding eye contact. This is a culturally ingrained way to express negativity without confrontation.
（沈黙）
(Silence indicating disapproval)
To grimace or make a sour face, showing disapproval or disgust.
彼はその話を聞いて顔をしかめた。
He grimaced upon hearing that story.
Direct expressions of disapproval (like ダメ or 許せない) can damage relationships in Japanese culture. Unless you are in a close relationship or a position of authority, it's usually safer to use softer phrases like 良くないと思う or それはちょっと….
直接「ダメ」と言うと、相手を傷つけるかもしれません。
Saying 'dame' directly might hurt the other person's feelings.
賛成できない (I cannot agree) is a softer way to express disapproval than 反対 (opposition). 反対 is more confrontational and is used when you actively oppose something, while 賛成できない simply states you cannot support it.
その計画には賛成できませんが、反対とまでは言いません。
I cannot agree with the plan, but I wouldn't go so far as to say I oppose it.
The board of directors disapproved the plan.