Translation guide
The English word 'undesirable' describes something or someone that is not wanted, not welcome, or considered harmful or unpleasant. In Japanese, the best translation depends on whether you are talking about a person, a thing, a situation, or an outcome. This guide covers the most natural ways to express these nuances.
Describing something that is not desired or not welcome, often in a general sense.
The most direct and common translation for 'undesirable' in formal and written contexts. It literally means 'not desirable' and can be used for situations, outcomes, or abstract things.
その結果は望ましくないものだった。
The result was undesirable.
There is a possibility of undesirable effects.
Similar to 望ましくない, but with a nuance of 'not preferable' or 'not pleasing'. Often used for behavior, conditions, or personal preferences.
彼の態度は好ましくない。
His attitude is undesirable.
Literally 'not thankful', used when something is unwelcome or not appreciated, often for offers, advice, or attention.
彼のアドバイスはありがたくなかった。
His advice was undesirable (unwelcome).
Referring to a person who is not wanted in a group, place, or situation, often due to behavior or reputation.
A formal way to say 'undesirable person'. Often used in official or written contexts.
彼は会社にとって好ましくない人物と見なされた。
He was regarded as an undesirable person for the company.
Literally 'troublesome person', used for someone who causes problems or is a burden. Stronger than just 'undesirable'.
彼は村の厄介者だ。
He is the undesirable person of the village.
Literally 'uninvited guest', used for someone who is not welcome. Often used in literary or dramatic contexts.
彼は招かれざる客として扱われた。
He was treated as an undesirable guest.
Describing a result or effect that is harmful, negative, or not wanted.
Means 'inconvenient' or 'unfavorable', often used for undesirable situations or outcomes. Common in both spoken and written Japanese.
その計画には不都合な点がある。
There are undesirable aspects to the plan.
A straightforward phrase meaning 'undesirable result'. Safe for most contexts.
それは好ましくない結果を招く。
That will lead to an undesirable outcome.
Describing a quality or feature that is considered bad or unwanted.
Formal phrase for 'undesirable characteristic'. Suitable for academic or technical contexts.
この品種には望ましくない特性がある。
This breed has undesirable traits.
Means 'weak point' or 'defect'. Commonly used for personal flaws or product shortcomings.
彼の短所は短気なことだ。
His undesirable trait is his short temper.
When calling a person 'undesirable', avoid direct translations like 望ましくない人 in casual speech, as it can sound overly formal or unnatural. Instead, use context-appropriate terms like 厄介者 or rephrase the sentence.
Both mean 'undesirable', but 望ましくない emphasizes lack of desirability from an objective standpoint, while 好ましくない leans toward personal preference or taste. In many cases they are interchangeable, but 好ましくない is slightly more subjective.
Means 'bad influence' or 'adverse effect'. Used when the undesirable outcome is a negative impact.
その政策は経済に悪影響を与えた。
The policy had an undesirable effect on the economy.