Translation guide
The English word 'unsatisfied' describes a state of not having one's needs, desires, or expectations met. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various words and phrases depending on the nuance: lingering dissatisfaction, unmet expectations, emotional discontent, or a sense of incompleteness.
Expressing a broad feeling of being unsatisfied with a situation, outcome, or state of affairs.
The most common and versatile word for 'dissatisfaction' or 'discontent'. It can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
彼は今の給料に不満だ。
He is unsatisfied with his current salary.
その決定に対して不満を感じている。
I feel unsatisfied with that decision.
A direct negation of 'satisfied', literally 'not satisfied'. It is neutral and can be used in various contexts.
結果に満足していない。
I am not satisfied with the result.
Describes a feeling that something is lacking or insufficient; not quite enough. Often used for experiences, meals, or explanations.
説明が物足りない。
The explanation is unsatisfying (leaves something to be desired).
この料理は量が物足りない。
This dish is unsatisfying in portion size.
When a specific hope, wish, or expectation has not been fulfilled.
A noun or na-adjective meaning 'disappointment' or 'not living up to expectations'. It implies a gap between what was expected and reality.
新作映画は期待外れだった。
The new movie was unsatisfying (didn't meet expectations).
Literally 'cannot meet expectations'. Used when someone or something fails to satisfy what was hoped for.
彼の提案は期待に応えられなかった。
His proposal did not satisfy expectations.
A deeper, often emotional sense of being unfulfilled or not content with life or relationships.
The negative form of '満たされる' (to be fulfilled/satisfied). It conveys a sense of emotional emptiness or longing.
心が満たされない。
I feel emotionally unsatisfied.
彼女は愛情に満たされない日々を送っている。
She spends her days feeling unsatisfied in terms of affection.
When a task, answer, or situation feels unfinished or not fully resolved, leaving one unsatisfied.
Means 'incomplete' or 'imperfect'. It can describe something that is unsatisfying because it lacks completeness.
その説明は不完全で、納得できない。
The explanation is incomplete and unsatisfying.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'not clear/refreshing', often used when a situation or feeling is unresolved and leaves one uneasy or unsatisfied.
問題が解決したのに、すっきりしない。
Even though the problem is solved, I feel unsatisfied (something still bothers me).
不満 is a noun/adjective that directly states dissatisfaction, often with a specific target. 満足していない is a more neutral, descriptive 'not satisfied'. 物足りない implies that something is lacking in quantity or quality, leaving a feeling of insufficiency rather than active complaint.
サービスに不満がある。
I have complaints about the service.
サービスに満足していない。
I am not satisfied with the service.
サービスが物足りない。
The service is lacking (not quite enough).
Avoid directly translating 'unsatisfied' as a single adjective in Japanese. While 不満足 (ふまんぞく) exists, it is less common and can sound stiff. Use the options above based on context.
Literally 'desire dissatisfaction', often translated as 'frustration'. It refers to the buildup of unsatisfied desires or needs, sometimes with a psychological or physical connotation.
欲求不満がストレスの原因だ。
Unsatisfied desires are the cause of stress.