Translation guide
Describes something that does not follow accepted customs, rules, or norms. The best Japanese equivalent depends on whether you mean 'not bound by convention' (often positive or neutral) or 'abnormal/irregular' (often negative or technical).
To describe a person, idea, or method that is original, free from traditional constraints, or not following the usual way.
Literally 'breaking the mold'. Used for people, ideas, or actions that defy convention in a bold, often admirable way. Common in both speech and writing.
彼の型破りな発想が新製品を生んだ。
His unconventional way of thinking gave birth to a new product.
型破りな経営手法で会社を成長させた。
He grew the company with unconventional management methods.
A phrase meaning 'not bound by established concepts'. Very common in business and creative contexts to praise innovative thinking.
既成概念にとらわれない発想が求められている。
We need unconventional ideas that aren't bound by established concepts.
Means 'original' or 'creative'. Emphasizes uniqueness and inventiveness. Often used for artistic or intellectual work.
彼女の独創的なデザインは世界中で評価されている。
Her unconventional designs are praised around the world.
Literally 'not bound by common sense'. Used to describe people or ideas that go beyond ordinary thinking.
常識にとらわれない人材を採用したい。
We want to hire people with unconventional mindsets.
To describe behavior, lifestyle, or appearance that deviates from what is socially expected, sometimes with a hint of eccentricity or disapproval.
Means 'not fitting into a mold'. Used for people or things that don't conform to standard patterns. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
彼は型にはまらない生き方をしている。
He leads an unconventional lifestyle.
A noun meaning 'eccentric person' or 'oddball'. Used for someone whose behavior is unconventional in a quirky way. Can be affectionate or mildly critical.
彼は職場の変わり者だ。
He's the unconventional one at the office.
Means 'eccentric' or 'quirky'. Often used for appearance, taste, or behavior that is unconventional in a noticeable way.
To describe something that deviates from a standard, rule, or normal pattern, often in medical, statistical, or formal contexts.
Means 'atypical' or 'non-standard'. Used in technical fields like medicine, psychology, or data analysis. Not for everyday conversation.
非定型の症状が見られる。
Unconventional symptoms are observed.
Means 'unprecedented' or 'exceptional'. Used for events or decisions that break with established practice, often in formal or news contexts.
Literally 'outside specifications'. Used for things that don't meet standard criteria, often in manufacturing or quality control. Can be used metaphorically for people.
The English word 'unconventional' covers a wide range of nuances. Using a single Japanese word like 非伝統的 (ひでんとうてき) sounds unnatural. Choose the expression that matches the specific meaning you intend.
彼は非伝統的な人だ。
He is an unconventional person. (unnatural)
型破り (かたやぶり) implies actively breaking conventions, often with a positive nuance of boldness. 型にはまらない (かたにはまらない) simply means not fitting the mold, which can be neutral or slightly negative. Use 型破り for admirable originality, and 型にはまらない for describing something that just doesn't conform.
彼女の風変わりなファッションが注目を集めた。
Her unconventional fashion attracted attention.
An unconventional measure was taken.
規格外の大きさの野菜。
Vegetables of unconventional size.