Translation guide
Expressing that something is mediocre, below average, or not as good as expected. Japanese uses various negative constructions with あまり, そんなに, or specific adjectives like 下手.
To say that something is not very good in quality, performance, or overall impression.
The most common and neutral way to say 'not very good'. あまり + negative adjective softens the negation.
この映画はあまり良くなかった。
This movie wasn't very good.
His Japanese isn't very good.
Similar to あまり, but implies 'not that good' in response to an expectation. Slightly more conversational.
このレストラン、そんなに良くないね。
This restaurant isn't that good, is it.
Colloquial adverb meaning 'not quite' or 'leaves something to be desired'. Often used on its own or with だ/だった.
味はいまいちだった。
The taste wasn't great.
Means 'unimpressive' or 'lackluster'. Used for things that fail to stand out.
彼のプレゼンはぱっとしなかった。
His presentation wasn't very good.
To say someone is not very skilled or proficient at an activity.
Standard way to say 'not very good at' using 上手 (skillful). あまり + negative.
私は料理があまり上手じゃない。
I'm not very good at cooking.
Direct adjective meaning 'unskillful' or 'poor at'. Stronger than あまり上手じゃない. Can be softened with ちょっと.
彼は歌が下手だ。
He's not good at singing.
私はちょっと運転が下手です。
I'm a little bad at driving.
Means 'weak point' or 'not one's strong suit'. Implies a lack of confidence or dislike, not just lack of skill.
To say that one's physical condition or feeling is not very good.
Used for physical condition or the state of a machine. 調子 means 'condition'.
今日はあまり調子が良くない。
I'm not feeling very good today.
Specifically for mood or how one feels emotionally/physically.
あまり気分が良くないので、休みます。
I'm not feeling very well, so I'll rest.
Do not directly translate 'not very good' as とても良くない, which means 'not extremely good' and sounds unnatural. Use あまり良くない instead.
あまり is a general softener for negatives. そんなに implies 'to that extent' and is often used when contradicting an assumption or expectation.
I'm not very good at math.