Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Lack" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "lack", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
非常識
ひじょうしき (hijoushiki)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
不足する
ふそくする (fusoku suru)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "lack" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 非常識 and 不足する.
In Japanese, 非常識 (ひじょうしき (hijoushiki)) is typically associated with "lack of common sense, absurd, outrageous, rude" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Describes behavior, ideas, or statements that go against generally accepted social norms, etiquette, or common sense. Often used with a negative connotation..
On the other hand, 不足する (ふそくする (fusoku suru)) maps to "to lack, to be insufficient, to run short" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents A verb used to describe a state where something is not enough or runs out. Often used with resources, supplies, or time.. A literal translation of "lack" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "非常識"
そんな時間に大声で話すなんて非常識だ。
It's outrageous to talk loudly at such an hour.
Bilingual Context for "不足する"
時間が不足しています。
We are short on time.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "そんな時間に大声で話すなんて ＿＿＿ だ。" (Meaning: "It's outrageous to talk loudly at such an hour.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "非常識" fits here because it means "lack of common sense, absurd, outrageous, rude" in the context of: "It's outrageous to talk loudly at such an hour.". "不足する" represents "to lack, to be insufficient, to run short".