Translation guide
The concept of fairness in Japanese is expressed through words that emphasize impartiality, equality, and justice. The most common term is 公平 (こうへい), used in everyday and formal contexts. Other words like 公正 (こうせい) and フェア are also used, with nuances depending on the situation.
To express the idea of treating people equally without favoritism or bias, in general situations.
The most common and versatile word for fairness. It implies impartiality and equal treatment. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
公平に扱ってください。
Please treat everyone fairly.
その判断は公平ではない。
That judgment is not fair.
A loanword from English, used in casual contexts, especially in sports or games. It sounds modern and approachable.
それはフェアじゃないよ。
That's not fair.
フェアな競争をしよう。
Let's have a fair competition.
Often used in legal, official, or formal contexts. It emphasizes justice and correctness, not just equal treatment.
公正な裁判を受ける権利
the right to a fair trial
公正な取引を心がけています。
We strive for fair dealings.
Means equality rather than fairness. Use when the focus is on equal distribution or equal rights, not necessarily impartial judgment.
すべての人は平等に扱われるべきだ。
All people should be treated equally.
To describe a situation, rule, or competition that is fair according to agreed standards.
Works here as well. It's the standard word for fairness in any context.
このルールは公平ですか？
Is this rule fair?
Very common in sports and games. Often used in phrases like フェアプレー (fair play).
彼はいつもフェアにプレーする。
He always plays fair.
To express the concept of fairness in terms of social justice, ethics, or what is morally right.
The best word for fairness in the sense of justice. Used in legal, political, and ethical discussions.
社会の公正を実現する。
Achieve social fairness.
Means 'justice' rather than 'fairness', but often overlaps. Use when the emphasis is on moral rightness.
Can also be used in justice contexts, but is less formal than 公正.
To describe the fairness of skin, meaning light or pale complexion. This is a separate meaning from the abstract concept.
The most common word for fair-skinned. Used to describe people with light skin.
彼女は色白だ。
She has fair skin.
A phrase meaning 'skin is white/fair'. More descriptive than 色白.
色が白いね。
You have fair skin, don't you?
Noun form meaning 'fairness of skin'. Used in more abstract or descriptive contexts.
色の白さが際立つ。
Her fair skin stands out.
公平 (こうへい) is general fairness/impartiality. 公正 (こうせい) is fairness in the sense of justice, often used in legal contexts. 平等 (びょうどう) is equality, not necessarily fairness. For example, equal distribution of resources is 平等, but a fair judgment is 公正 or 公平.
The English word 'fairness' can refer to skin tone, but 公平 (こうへい) only means impartiality. To describe fair skin, use 色白 (いろじろ) or 色が白い (いろがしろい).
An idiomatic expression meaning 'fair and square' or 'openly and fairly'. Used in competitive contexts.
正々堂々と戦おう。
Let's fight fair and square.
Fight for justice (fairness).
公平な社会を目指す。
Aim for a fair society.