Translation guide
The English phrase "run counter to" means to be in opposition or conflict with something, such as a principle, expectation, or trend. This guide helps learners express this idea naturally in Japanese, covering common verbs, phrases, and patterns.
Expressing that something is in opposition to a principle, expectation, rule, or common sense.
A versatile phrase meaning 'to be contrary to' or 'to go against'. Used with nouns indicating rules, expectations, principles, etc.
彼の行動は規則に反する。
His actions run counter to the rules.
その提案は我々の基本方針に反する。
That proposal runs counter to our basic policy.
Expressing that two things cannot coexist or are in direct conflict.
Means 'to be mutually contradictory' or 'to conflict with'. Often used in formal contexts for interests, goals, or principles.
その計画は我々の利益と相反する。
That plan runs counter to our interests.
「に反する」 is the most general and can be used for rules, expectations, principles, etc. 「に逆行する」 specifically implies going against a flow or trend, and is more literary.
規則に反する
run counter to the rules
時代の流れに逆行する
run counter to the trend of the times
Do not translate 'run counter to' literally as 「走って反対する」 or similar. Use the phrases provided.
Literally 'to go against the current', used for going against trends, times, or flows. Slightly more formal or literary.
その政策は時代の流れに逆行している。
That policy runs counter to the trend of the times.
Means 'to betray' or 'to go against' someone's expectations, trust, or will. Often used with words like 期待 (expectations) or 信頼 (trust).
彼の行動は両親の期待に背いた。
His actions ran counter to his parents' expectations.
Means 'to contradict' or 'to be inconsistent with'. Used when two things logically conflict.
彼の主張は事実と矛盾している。
His claim runs counter to the facts.
Means 'to be incompatible with' or 'cannot coexist with'. Used for things that cannot be achieved simultaneously.
効率性と公平性は時に両立しない。
Efficiency and fairness sometimes run counter to each other.