Translation guide
Describes actions or methods that are sneaky, deceitful, or unfair, often done secretly to gain an advantage. Japanese has several words and phrases to express this, ranging from common terms for 'unfair' to more specific words for 'sneaky' or 'dirty tricks'.
To describe an action, method, or person as unfair, dirty, or not playing by the rules.
The most common and versatile word for 'unfair' or 'sneaky'. Can describe actions, methods, or people. Often used in everyday conversation, including by children.
それはずるいよ。
That's underhanded / not fair.
彼はずるい手を使った。
He used an underhanded trick.
Literally 'dirty', but commonly used metaphorically to mean 'underhanded' or 'dirty' (as in 'dirty tactics'). Stronger than ずるい, implying moral dirtiness.
Means 'cowardly' or 'unfair'. Often used for actions that are underhanded and dishonorable. Slightly more formal than ずるい.
卑怯な真似はよせ。
Stop that underhanded behavior.
彼のやり方は卑怯だ。
His way of doing things is underhanded.
To emphasize the secretive, cunning nature of the action, often involving lying or manipulation.
Means 'cunning', 'sly', or 'crafty'. Often used for people or schemes that are cleverly underhanded. More formal/literary.
彼は狡猾な手口で金をだまし取った。
He swindled money through underhanded means.
Describes a person who is sneaky and mean-spirited in a quiet, underhanded way. Often implies a grudge or hidden malice.
陰険なやり方で嫌がらせをする。
He harasses people in an underhanded way.
Means 'sneaky' or 'furtive', describing actions done secretly, often with a sense of guilt. More about the manner than the unfairness.
こそこそした行動が怪しい。
His sneaky behavior is suspicious.
To refer to specific underhanded tactics, plots, or maneuvers.
Literally 'behind-the-scenes maneuvering'. Refers to underhanded political or business dealings, backroom deals, or secret scheming.
彼は裏工作で契約を取った。
He got the contract through underhanded dealings.
Literally 'dirty hand/trick'. A common phrase for an underhanded trick or tactic.
選挙で汚い手を使う。
They use underhanded tricks in the election.
Means 'scheme' or 'stratagem'. Can be neutral, but often implies a cunning or underhanded plan.
To describe a person who habitually acts in an underhanded way.
Literally 'sly-clever person'. Describes someone who is cunning and uses underhanded methods for personal gain.
彼はずる賢い人だから気をつけて。
He's an underhanded person, so be careful.
Means 'schemer' or 'strategist'. Often has a negative connotation of someone who plots underhanded schemes.
あの政治家は策士だ。
That politician is an underhanded schemer.
ずるい is the most common and mildest, often used by children or in casual settings. 汚い (dirty) is stronger and implies moral disgust. 卑怯 is more about cowardice and dishonor, often used in serious accusations.
Do not try to literally translate 'under' and 'hand' into Japanese. There is no direct equivalent. Use the words and phrases above depending on the nuance you want to convey.
彼の策略にはまった。
I fell for his underhanded scheme.