Translation guide
Describes behavior that is overbearing, arrogant, or dictatorial, showing a disregard for others' opinions or feelings. In Japanese, this is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and descriptive phrases that convey acting without consultation or consideration.
To describe a person or action that is arrogantly authoritative, imposing one's will on others without regard for their input.
A na-adjective/noun meaning tyrannical, overbearing, or high-handed. Commonly used to describe actions or attitudes that are domineering and unjust.
彼の横暴な態度には我慢できない。
I can't stand his high-handed attitude.
上司の横暴な決定に反対した。
I opposed my boss's high-handed decision.
A na-adjective meaning high-pressure, overbearing, or coercive. Often used for a domineering manner that forces compliance.
彼の高圧的な話し方が嫌いだ。
I dislike his high-handed way of speaking.
高圧的な態度を取るな。
Don't take a high-handed attitude.
A na-adjective meaning self-righteous or sanctimonious. Implies a high-handedness rooted in believing one's own views are absolutely correct.
彼の独善的なやり方に皆が反発した。
Everyone pushed back against his high-handed, self-righteous way of doing things.
A noun/na-adjective meaning arbitrary, despotic, or high-handed. Often used in political or organizational contexts.
そのリーダーの専横な振る舞いに不満が高まった。
Discontent grew over the leader's high-handed behavior.
To describe making decisions or taking actions unilaterally, without seeking input or agreement from those affected.
Literally 'decide by one's own judgment'. This phrase emphasizes the lack of consultation and is a very natural way to express high-handed decision-making.
彼は独断でプロジェクトを進めた。
He proceeded with the project in a high-handed manner, without consulting anyone.
そんな重要なことを独断で決めないでください。
Please don't make such an important decision high-handedly (on your own).
Literally 'decide selfishly/arbitrarily'. More colloquial and carries a nuance of doing as one pleases without permission.
彼はいつも勝手にルールを決める。
He always high-handedly decides the rules on his own.
An adverb meaning peremptorily or without giving someone a chance to speak. Describes a high-handed manner of rejecting or commanding.
彼は私の提案を頭ごなしに否定した。
He high-handedly rejected my proposal without even listening.
To describe a person's demeanor that is haughty, looking down on others, and acting superior.
A na-adjective meaning arrogant, haughty, or proud. Captures the attitude of superiority often associated with high-handedness.
彼の傲慢な態度に腹が立った。
I got angry at his high-handed, arrogant attitude.
傲慢な言い方はやめてください。
Please stop speaking in such a high-handed, arrogant way.
A na-adjective meaning arrogant, insolent, or overbearing. Often used for a haughty attitude, especially toward subordinates.
A na-adjective meaning overbearing, domineering, or high-handed in a loud, intimidating way. Often used for a manner of speaking.
横暴 (tyrannical) emphasizes unjust, domineering actions; 高圧的 (high-pressure) focuses on coercive, forceful manner; 傲慢 (arrogant) describes a haughty, superior attitude. Choose based on whether the high-handedness is about actions, pressure, or attitude.
The English phrase 'high-handed' does not have a direct single-word equivalent in Japanese. Using a literal translation like 高い手 will not be understood. Instead, use the adjectives and phrases provided that capture the intended meaning.
彼は部下に対して横柄だ。
He is high-handed and arrogant toward his subordinates.
彼は居丈高に命令した。
He gave orders in a high-handed, overbearing manner.