Translation guide
Describes a person, attitude, or action based on preconceived opinions rather than reason or experience. Japanese expressions range from direct adjectives to nuanced phrases about bias and preconceptions.
To describe someone who holds unfair, preconceived opinions about a group or idea.
Literally 'holding prejudice'. A common, neutral way to say someone is prejudiced.
彼は外国人に対して偏見を持っている。
He is prejudiced against foreigners.
Means 'biased' or 'skewed'. Can describe opinions, views, or information.
To describe actions or treatment that are unfair due to bias.
Means 'discriminatory'. Often used for prejudiced actions or policies.
その会社は差別的な採用基準を設けている。
That company has prejudiced hiring standards.
偏見 (へんけん) is a negative, often unfounded bias against a group. 先入観 (せんにゅうかん) is a preconception that may not be negative, just a pre-existing idea. Use 偏見 for 'prejudiced' in the discriminatory sense.
The English word 'prejudiced' is often used as an adjective (e.g., 'He is prejudiced'). In Japanese, it's more natural to use phrases like 偏見を持っている (holds prejudice) rather than a single adjective.
His opinion is prejudiced.
Literally 'having preconceptions'. Emphasizes preconceived notions rather than active bias.
彼女は先入観があるから、公平に判断できない。
She is prejudiced, so she can't judge fairly.
Means 'narrow-minded' or 'intolerant'. Stronger and more literary.
偏狭な考え方は社会の進歩を妨げる。
Prejudiced thinking hinders social progress.
Means 'unfair'. Broader than prejudice, but often used in similar contexts.
不公平な扱いを受けた。
I received prejudiced treatment.