Translation guide
The English word "unfavorable" describes conditions, opinions, or outcomes that are negative, disadvantageous, or not in one's favor. In Japanese, the most natural translation depends on what is being described: a situation, a judgment, a comparison, or an impression. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions by these contexts.
Describing weather, economic conditions, situations, or environments that are disadvantageous or not good.
Means 'disadvantageous' or 'unfavorable' in the sense of putting someone at a disadvantage. Often used in competitive or comparative contexts.
不利な状況に置かれている。
We are in an unfavorable situation.
The most basic word for 'bad'. Can be used broadly for unfavorable conditions, weather, results, etc.
Literally 'not desirable'. Used for conditions or situations that are not favorable or welcome.
好ましくない状況が続いている。
Unfavorable conditions continue.
A formal, somewhat literary expression meaning 'not good' or 'unfavorable', often used in written reports or news about results, performance, etc.
業績は芳しくない。
Business performance is unfavorable.
Describing a negative evaluation, criticism, or response from someone.
Means 'negative' in the sense of expressing disapproval or an unfavorable view. Commonly used with な to modify nouns.
彼はその提案に否定的な意見を述べた。
He expressed an unfavorable opinion about the proposal.
Means 'critical'. Implies a more analytical or judgmental unfavorable stance.
Means 'bad reputation' or 'unpopularity'. Used when something receives unfavorable reviews or public opinion.
Literally 'not favorable' in attitude. A more roundabout way to say someone's reaction was unfavorable.
彼の反応は好意的でなかった。
His reaction was unfavorable.
Showing that something is worse or less advantageous when compared to something else.
Again, 'disadvantageous', but here emphasizing a comparison where one side is worse off.
我々にとって不利な条件だ。
These are unfavorable terms for us.
A pattern meaning 'inferior compared to ~'. Used to state an unfavorable comparison directly.
この車は前のモデルに比べて性能が劣る。
This car has unfavorable performance compared to the previous model.
Means 'to look inferior' or 'to be outshone'. Used when something appears unfavorable in direct comparison.
彼の作品は他の応募作品と比べて見劣りする。
His work is unfavorable compared to the other entries.
Describing a negative feeling or image one gets from someone or something.
A common phrase meaning 'gives a bad impression'. The most natural way to say something or someone is unfavorable in terms of impression.
彼の態度は印象が悪い。
His attitude leaves an unfavorable impression.
More casual than 印象が悪い, meaning 'gives a bad feeling' or 'unpleasant'. Often used for people or atmospheres.
あの店は感じが悪い。
That store gives an unfavorable vibe.
Literally 'cannot have a favorable impression'. A slightly formal way to say you find someone or something unfavorable.
彼の話し方には好感が持てない。
I have an unfavorable impression of the way he speaks.
There is no single Japanese adjective that covers all uses of 'unfavorable'. Translating it as 不都合な (futsugō na) or 不利な (furi na) in every context will often sound unnatural. Choose the expression based on what is unfavorable: conditions, opinions, comparisons, or impressions.
不利 (furi) specifically means 'disadvantageous' and is used when there is a competitive element or a comparison. 悪い (warui) simply means 'bad' and is more general. For weather, results, or general conditions, 悪い is usually better. For terms, conditions, or positions in a contest, 不利 is more precise.
新聞は政府に批判的な記事を書いた。
The newspaper wrote an unfavorable article about the government.
The new product received unfavorable reviews.