Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Outrageous" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "outrageous", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
言語道断
ごんごどうだん (gongoudoudan)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
不埒
ふらち (furachi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "outrageous" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 言語道断 and 不埒.
In Japanese, 言語道断 (ごんごどうだん (gongoudoudan)) is typically associated with "outrageous, preposterous, inexcusable, unspeakable" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A strong expression to describe something utterly outrageous, unacceptable, or beyond the bounds of what is reasonable or permissible. Used for severe disapproval. Often follows noun phrases like 「～とは言語道断だ」..
On the other hand, 不埒 (ふらち (furachi)) maps to "outrageous, impudent, scandalous, indecent" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes behavior that is morally reprehensible, disrespectful, or goes against common decency. 道徳に反する行いや、人としてあるまじき無礼な態度を表します。現代ではやや古風な表現ですが、強い非難の意を含みます。. A literal translation of "outrageous" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "言語道断"
約束を破って連絡もしないとは、言語道断だ！
To break a promise and not even contact me is outrageous!
Bilingual Context for "不埒"
彼の不埒な行為が世間に知れ渡った。
His scandalous behavior became widely known to the public.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "約束を破って連絡もしないとは、 ＿＿＿ だ！" (Meaning: "To break a promise and not even contact me is outrageous!")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "言語道断" fits here because it means "outrageous, preposterous, inexcusable, unspeakable" in the context of: "To break a promise and not even contact me is outrageous!". "不埒" represents "outrageous, impudent, scandalous, indecent".