synonym Comparative
惜しい
VS
不甲斐ない
Differences Between "惜しい" and "不甲斐ない"
Option A
惜しい
Meaning
regrettable, disappointing, too good to waste, precious
Reading
おしい (oshii)
Syllabus Level
N3
Practical Example
あと一歩で優勝だった。本当に惜しかった。
We were one step away from winning. It was truly regrettable/a pity.
Option B
不甲斐ない
Meaning
good-for-nothing, pathetic, spineless, disappointing
Reading
ふがいない (fugainai)
Syllabus Level
N2
Practical Example
不甲斐ない結果に終わり、チームに申し訳ない。
The result was disappointing, and I feel sorry for the team.
Which one to use?
Select the correct Japanese word for this context
Which word fits this context: "(regrettable, disappointing, too good to waste, precious)"?
🎉 正解 / Correct!
使い分け解説:
- 惜しい: Expresses regret for something missed (e.g., almost winning), or that something is too valuable to waste. Can also mean 'pity'. (ex: 惜しい失敗, 捨てるのが惜しい)
- 不甲斐ない: Describes a person or action lacking spirit, courage, or strength, often leading to disappointment. 期待に応えられず、意気地がない様子や、情けない気持ちを表します。
- 惜しい: Expresses regret for something missed (e.g., almost winning), or that something is too valuable to waste. Can also mean 'pity'. (ex: 惜しい失敗, 捨てるのが惜しい)
- 不甲斐ない: Describes a person or action lacking spirit, courage, or strength, often leading to disappointment. 期待に応えられず、意気地がない様子や、情けない気持ちを表します。
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