仲の悪い in 30 Seconds

  • Describes relationships with discord or unfriendliness.
  • Indicates people are "on bad terms" or "estranged."
  • Used for individuals, groups, or even nations.
  • Implies a lack of harmony or active animosity.

Understanding "仲の悪い" (Naka no Warui)

The Japanese phrase 仲の悪い (naka no warui) is an adjective that describes a relationship characterized by discord, animosity, or a lack of harmony between people. It literally translates to "bad relationship" or "poor relations." This phrase is used to convey that individuals, or groups of individuals, do not get along well, often implying a history of conflict or ongoing tension.

Literal Meaning
仲 (naka) means "relationship" or "between," and 悪い (warui) means "bad." So, literally, it means "bad relationship."
Nuance
It implies more than just a temporary disagreement; it suggests a more ingrained state of not being on good terms. This can apply to family members, friends, colleagues, or even nations.

Sentence Example: 彼らは兄弟だが、仲の悪いことで有名だ。
Kare-ra wa kyōdai da ga, naka no warui koto de yūmei da.

Translation Hint: Although they are brothers, they are famous for being on bad terms.

You would use 仲の悪い when describing situations where people actively dislike each other, avoid each other, or constantly argue. It's a direct way to state that a relationship is strained and unpleasant.

Common Scenarios for Usage:

  • Family disputes: Siblings who don't speak, parents and children with constant arguments.
  • Workplace conflicts: Colleagues who cannot cooperate or actively dislike each other.
  • Friendship breakdowns: Former friends who are now estranged and hostile.
  • Social groups: Individuals within a community who have a history of animosity.
  • International relations: Countries with poor diplomatic ties.

Sentence Example: 隣人同士は仲の悪いようだ。いつも口論している。
Rinjin dōshi wa naka no warui yō da. Itsumo kōron shite iru.

Translation Hint: The neighbors seem to be on bad terms. They are always arguing.

Understanding 仲の悪い is crucial for grasping the dynamics of relationships in Japanese culture, where harmony is often valued, and discord can be a significant social issue.

Sentence Example: 会社の部署間では仲の悪い部署があるらしい。
Kaisha no busho-kan de wa naka no warui busho ga aru rashii.

Translation Hint: It seems there are departments within the company that are on bad terms with each other.

Constructing Sentences with "仲の悪い"

Using 仲の悪い (naka no warui) correctly in sentences requires understanding its grammatical role as an adjective modifying nouns. It typically precedes the noun it describes, or it can be used predicatively with the copula です (desu) or だ (da).

As a Pre-nominal Adjective

When 仲の悪い directly modifies a noun, it indicates that the noun refers to something or someone involved in a bad relationship. The structure is typically:

[Noun referring to people/groups] + は/が + 仲の悪い + [Noun]

Sentence Example: 彼らは仲の悪い友人だ。
Kare-ra wa naka no warui yūjin da.

Translation Hint: They are unfriendly friends.

In this example, 仲の悪い modifies the noun 友人 (yūjin - friend), specifying that these are friends who are on bad terms.

As a Predicative Adjective

It can also function as a predicate, describing the state of a subject. The structure is:

[Subject] + は/が + 仲が悪い + (です/だ)。

Sentence Example: あの二人はいつも仲が悪い
Ano futari wa itsumo naka ga warui.

Translation Hint: Those two are always on bad terms.

Here, 仲が悪い describes the relationship between "ano futari" (those two).

Connecting to Reasons

You can use conjunctions to link the state of being on bad terms with a reason or consequence.

Sentence Example: 彼女たちは仲の悪いため、一緒に仕事をするのを避けている。
Kanojo-tachi wa naka no warui tame, issho ni shigoto o suru no o sakete iru.

Translation Hint: Because they are on bad terms, they avoid working together.

The particle ため (tame - because/due to) connects the cause (仲の悪い) to the effect (avoiding work).

Describing Groups and Relationships

This phrase is versatile and can describe various relationships:

Family
兄弟は仲の悪いことで有名だ。
Kyōdai wa naka no warui koto de yūmei da. (The brothers are famous for being on bad terms.)
Colleagues
あの二人の同僚は仲の悪いらしい。
Ano futari no dōryō wa naka no warui rashii. (It seems those two colleagues are on bad terms.)
Countries
両国は長年仲の悪い関係にある。
Ryōkoku wa naganen naka no warui kankei ni aru. (The two countries have had bad relations for many years.)

Mastering these sentence structures will allow you to effectively communicate disharmony and strained relationships in Japanese.

Real-World Usage of "仲の悪い"

仲の悪い (naka no warui) is a phrase frequently encountered in everyday conversations, media, and literature when discussing interpersonal dynamics. Its prevalence stems from the universal nature of conflict and strained relationships.

Everyday Conversations

You'll hear this phrase used casually among friends, family, or colleagues when discussing gossip or explaining why certain people don't interact well. For instance, someone might say:

Sentence Example: あの二人は昔から仲の悪いんだよ。
Ano futari wa mukashi kara naka no warui n da yo.

Translation Hint: Those two have been on bad terms since long ago.

This implies a long-standing, perhaps unresolvable, animosity.

Television Dramas and Movies

Japanese dramas and films often feature characters with complex relationships, and 仲の悪い is a common descriptor for characters who are rivals, estranged family members, or have ongoing feuds. It's a quick way to establish conflict and character dynamics.

Sentence Example: ドラマでは、仲の悪い兄弟の葛藤が描かれている。
Dorama de wa, naka no warui kyōdai no kattō ga egakarete iru.

Translation Hint: The drama depicts the conflict of estranged brothers.

News and Current Affairs

In news reporting, particularly when discussing international relations or political disputes, 仲の悪い can be used to describe countries or political factions that have hostile relationships.

Sentence Example: 両国は仲の悪い状況が続いている。
Ryōkoku wa naka no warui jōkyō ga tsuzuite iru.

Translation Hint: The situation between the two countries, who are on bad terms, continues.

Literature and Storytelling

In novels, short stories, and even manga, 仲の悪い is a common way to describe the relationships between characters, driving plot points related to conflict, betrayal, or reconciliation.

Example in Literature
The author described the 仲の悪い relationship between the two rival families, which formed the central conflict of the story.

By observing these examples, you can gain a better appreciation for the natural and common usage of 仲の悪い in various Japanese communication contexts.

Avoiding Pitfalls with "仲の悪い"

While 仲の悪い (naka no warui) is a straightforward adjective, learners can sometimes make mistakes in its application, particularly concerning grammatical particles and the nuance of its usage.

Mistake 1: Incorrect Particle Usage (の vs. が)

A common error is using の (no) when が (ga) is more appropriate, or vice versa. Remember:

Correct Usage

As a pre-nominal adjective modifying a noun: Use の. Example: 仲の悪い関係 (naka no warui kankei - bad relations).

As a predicative adjective describing a subject: Use が. Example: 彼らは仲が悪い (kare-ra wa naka ga warui - they are on bad terms).

Incorrect: 彼らは仲の悪いです。
Correct: 彼らは仲が悪いです。

Explanation: The first sentence incorrectly uses の when describing the state of their relationship. The second correctly uses が.

Mistake 2: Overusing it for Minor Disagreements

仲の悪い implies a significant level of discord, not just a fleeting argument or minor disagreement. Using it for trivial matters can sound overly dramatic or inaccurate.

Example of Overuse
Saying two people are 仲の悪い just because they had one argument about where to eat dinner might be an exaggeration. For such minor issues, phrases like"意見が合わない" (iken ga awanai - don't agree) might be more appropriate.

Nuance: A simple disagreement might be "ちょっと言い争った" (chotto iiarasutta - had a small argument), while 仲の悪い suggests a deeper, ongoing issue.

Explanation: Using 仲の悪い for a minor spat misrepresents the severity of the relationship.

Mistake 3: Confusing with Similar Concepts

Learners might confuse 仲の悪い with terms that describe general dislike or lack of interaction, without the inherent conflict implied by "warui" (bad).

Distinction
While someone might be " unfriendly" (unfriendly), 仲の悪い specifically points to a negative dynamic, often involving past or present conflict.

By being mindful of these common mistakes, you can use 仲の悪い with greater accuracy and confidence.

Exploring Synonyms and Alternatives for "仲の悪い"

While 仲の悪い (naka no warui) is a common and effective way to describe strained relationships, Japanese offers various other expressions that convey similar or nuanced meanings. Understanding these alternatives allows for more precise and varied expression.

Direct Synonyms and Closely Related Terms

不仲 (Funaka)

Meaning: Estrangement, bad relations, discord.

Usage: This is a noun that functions similarly to the concept of 仲の悪い. It often appears in phrases like "不仲になる" (funaka ni naru - to become estranged) or "不仲の原因" (funaka no gen'in - cause of estrangement).

Comparison: 仲の悪い is an adjective describing a state, while 不仲 is a noun representing the state itself. They are very close in meaning.

Example: 彼らは不仲が原因で別居した。
Kare-ra wa funaka ga gen'in de bekkyo shita. (They separated due to estrangement.)

険悪な関係 (Ken'aku na kankei)

Meaning: Hostile relationship, acrimonious relations.

Usage: This phrase is more intense than 仲の悪い, implying a relationship characterized by hostility and open antagonism.

Comparison: 仲の悪い can describe a general lack of friendliness, whereas 険悪な関係 emphasizes active hostility.

Example: 両国間の険悪な関係は続いている。
Ryōkoku-kan no ken'aku na kankei wa tsuzuite iru. (The hostile relations between the two countries continue.)

対立する (Tairitsu suru)

Meaning: To be in conflict, to oppose.

Usage: This is a verb used to describe the action of being in conflict. It implies opposition and disagreement.

Comparison: 仲の悪い describes the state of the relationship, while 対立する describes the action or state of being in conflict.

Example: 彼らは常に対立している。
Kare-ra wa tsuneni tairitsu shite iru. (They are always in conflict.)

Terms for Lack of Harmony or Disagreement

そりが合わない (Sori ga awanai)

Meaning: To not get along, to not be compatible.

Usage: This idiom is used when people simply don't click or have incompatible personalities, leading to a lack of harmony. It's often less about active conflict and more about a fundamental mismatch.

Comparison: 仲の悪い implies a more negative and potentially conflict-ridden relationship, while そりが合わない suggests a lack of synergy or compatibility.

Example: 彼女とはどうもそりが合わないようだ。
Kanojo to wa dōmo sori ga awanai yō da. (It seems I just don't get along with her.)

意見が食い違う (Iken ga kuichigau)

Meaning: Opinions differ, to clash in opinion.

Usage: This phrase specifically refers to disagreements in opinion or views.

Comparison: While differing opinions can lead to 仲の悪い situations, 意見が食い違う itself only describes the difference in views, not the overall relationship dynamic.

Example: プロジェクトの進め方で意見が食い違っている。
Purojekuto no susumekata de iken ga kuichigatte iru. (Opinions are clashing on how to proceed with the project.)

By understanding these alternatives, you can enrich your Japanese vocabulary and express the complexities of interpersonal relationships more effectively.

How Formal Is It?

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Neutral

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Informal

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Child friendly

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Slang

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Fun Fact

While 仲 (naka) often refers to human relationships, it can also be used to describe the space or position 'between' things. For example, 木なか (ki no naka) means "between the trees." However, in 仲の悪い, the meaning is clearly focused on interpersonal dynamics.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /nɑːkə ˈwɑːrʊ/
US /nɑːkə ˈwɑːrʊ/
The primary stress falls on the second syllable of 'warui', which is 'wa'. So, 'na-KA no WA-ru-i'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

CEFR B1 level. Understanding the core meaning is achievable, but nuances and context-dependent usage might require higher proficiency. Complex sentence structures can increase difficulty.

Writing 3/5

CEFR B1 level. Constructing sentences correctly, especially distinguishing between 仲が悪い and 仲の悪い, requires practice. Using it in more complex narratives can be challenging.

Speaking 3/5

CEFR B1 level. Pronunciation is relatively straightforward, but using the phrase naturally in conversation and understanding its implied meaning requires exposure.

Listening 3/5

CEFR B1 level. Recognizing the phrase in spoken Japanese is feasible, but distinguishing its nuances from similar expressions requires practice.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

仲 (naka) 悪い (warui) 関係 (kankei) 人 (hito) 友達 (tomodachi)

Learn Next

不仲 (funaka) 険悪な関係 (ken'aku na kankei) そりが合わない (sori ga awanai) 対立する (tairitsu suru) 和 (wa)

Advanced

確執 (kakushitsu) 軋轢 (aretsureki) 断絶 (dan zetsu) 冷戦 (reisen) 和解 (wakai)

Grammar to Know

Using の (no) vs. が (ga) with adjectives.

When 仲が悪い is used predicatively, が is typically used. When it modifies a noun directly (仲の悪い関係), の is used.

Connecting clauses with reasons.

Using から (kara - because) or ため (tame - due to) to explain why someone is なかわるい or has a なかわるい relationship.

Verb conjugation for becoming bad.

The verb わるくなる (waruku naru) means "to become bad." This is used in phrases like 仲が悪くなる (naka ga waruku naru - to become estranged).

Using そうだ (sō da) for appearance/hearsay.

彼らはなかわるいようだ (Karera wa naka ga warui yō da - It seems they are on bad terms).

Adjective modification.

なかわるい can directly precede nouns like 関係 (kankei - relationship) or 国 (kuni - country).

Examples by Level

1

あの二人はなかわるい。

Those two are on bad terms.

なかわるい is used predicatively here.

2

わたしたちのなかわるくない。

Our relationship is not bad (We get along well).

Negation of なかわるい.

3

かれ彼女かのじょなかわるい。

He and she are on bad terms.

Describes the relationship between two specific individuals.

4

わたしかれなかわるい。

I am on bad terms with him.

Expresses a personal negative relationship.

5

あのひとたち、なかわるそうだ。

Those people seem to be on bad terms.

Uses そうだ (sō da) to indicate appearance or assumption.

6

わたしたちのなかい。

We have a good relationship (We get along well).

The antonym: なかい.

7

となりいぬなかわるい。

It's on bad terms with the neighbor's dog.

Can be used for animals too, indicating conflict.

8

学校がっこうなかわるい。

There are people on bad terms at school.

Contextualizes the phrase within a specific location.

1

あの兄弟きょうだいむかしからなかわるい。

Those brothers have been on bad terms since long ago.

むかしから indicates a long duration.

2

クラスないなかわるがいる。

There is a child in the class who is on bad terms (with others).

can refer to a student in this context.

3

とうさんとははさんはなかわるい。

My father and mother are on bad terms.

Commonly used to describe marital discord.

4

わたしかれなかわるいので、はなしません。

Since I am on bad terms with him, I don't talk to him.

Connects the state of being on bad terms with an action (not talking).

5

会社かいしゃ同僚どうりょうなかわるい。

I am on bad terms with my colleague.

Specifies the relationship within a workplace context.

6

その二人ふたりなかわる関係かんけいだ。

Those two have a bad relationship.

Uses なかわるい as a predicate describing 関係かんけい.

7

かれわたしなかわるい。

He and I are on bad terms.

A direct statement of personal discord.

8

わたし友達ともだちなかわるい。

My friend is on bad terms (with someone).

Implies the friend has a negative relationship with someone unspecified.

1

そのふたつの会社かいしゃ長年ながねんなかわる関係かんけいにある。

Those two companies have had bad relations for many years.

なかわるい is used as a pre-nominal adjective modifying 関係かんけい.

2

かれ家族かぞくなかわるく、実家じっかにはかえらない。

He has bad relations with his family and doesn't return to his parents' home.

Connects the state of なかわるい with a consequence.

3

わたしたちのあいだには以前いぜんからなかわるうわさがあった。

There have been rumors of bad relations between us for a long time.

うわさ (rumor) is modified by なかわるい.

4

このふたつの部署ぶしょなかわるいらしい。

It seems those two departments have bad relations.

らしい (rashii) indicates hearsay or assumption.

5

かれらは表面上ひょうめんじょうなかいが、本当ほんとうなかわるい。

On the surface, they seem to get along, but in reality, they are on bad terms.

Contrasts outward appearance with inner reality.

6

長年ながねん友人ゆうじんだったが、些細ささいなことでなかわるくなった。

They were friends for many years, but they became on bad terms over a trivial matter.

Highlights how a small issue can damage a long-standing relationship.

7

かれ態度たいどからなかわるいのがかる。

From his attitude, I can tell they are on bad terms.

Infers the relationship status from observable behavior.

8

わたしかれなかわる関係かんけい解消かいしょうしたい。

I want to resolve the bad relationship I have with him.

Expresses a desire to end or improve a strained relationship.

1

その政治家せいじかたちは、政策せいさくちがいからなかわるい。

Those politicians are on bad terms due to policy differences.

Specifies the reason for the strained relationship (政策せいさくちがい - policy differences).

2

かれ家庭かてい複雑ふくざつで、親戚しんせきともなかわるいらしい。

His family is complicated, and it seems he is also on bad terms with his relatives.

Implies a wider network of strained relationships within the family.

3

両国りょうこく関係かんけい当初とうしょからなかわるかったわけではない。

The relationship between the two countries wasn't bad from the beginning.

Negates the idea that the bad relationship was always present.

4

かれ行動こうどうは、周囲しゅういとのなかわるいことを示唆しさしている。

His behavior suggests that he is on bad terms with those around him.

示唆しさする (to suggest) links behavior to the relationship status.

5

長年ながねん共同きょうどうパートナーとなかわるくなり、事業じぎょう頓挫とんざした。

The long-term business partnership soured, and the venture stalled.

Connects strained business relations with negative business outcomes.

6

かれ孤立こりつは、同僚どうりょうたちとのなかわるいことを物語ものがたっている。

His isolation tells the story of his bad relations with his colleagues.

物語ものがたっている (tells the story of) implies that the isolation is evidence of the strained relationship.

7

世代せだい断絶だんぜつは、おやなかわるいことのあらわれである。

Generational disconnect is a manifestation of bad relations between parents and children.

Connects なかわるい with a broader societal issue (世代せだい断絶だんぜつ - generational disconnect).

8

かれ世間せけんとのなかわる人物じんぶつとしてえがかれている。

He is depicted as a character who is on bad terms with society.

Describes a character's relationship with society at large.

1

両国りょうこく外交がいこうにおけるなかわるさは、経済けいざいにも深刻しんこく影響えいきょうあたえている。

The bad relations between the two countries in diplomacy are having a serious impact on the economy.

Connects diplomatic discord with economic consequences.

2

長年ながねん政敵せい てきであったふたつの派閥はばつは、いまでもなかわるい。

The two factions, who were long-term political rivals, are still on bad terms.

Describes persistent rivalry between political groups.

3

かれ人間不信にんげんふしんは、過去かこ経験けいけんから他者たしゃとのなかわるくなったことに起因きいんする。

His distrust of people stems from past experiences that led to bad relations with others.

起因きいんする (stems from) links past experiences to the current state of strained relationships.

4

家庭かてい不和ふわは、子供こどもたちの健全けんぜん成長せいちょう悪影響あくえいきょうあたえ、結果けっかとしてなかわるくなる。

Family discord negatively impacts children's healthy development, resulting in bad relations.

Explains a causal chain: family discord -> negative impact on children -> bad relations.

5

文化ぶんかちがいからじる誤解ごかいが、国際こくさい的ななかわるさの一因いちいんとなっている。

Misunderstandings arising from cultural differences are one cause of international bad relations.

Identifies cultural differences as a root cause of international discord.

6

長年ながねん沈黙ちんもくは、かれ兄妹きょうだい根深ねぶかなかわるさを物語ものがたっていた。

The long silence told of the deep bad relations between the siblings.

根深ねぶかい (deep-rooted) emphasizes the severity of the strained relationship.

7

会社かいしゃ業績ぎょうせき低迷ていめいしている原因げんいんは、経営陣けいえいじんなかわるいことだと指摘してきされている。

It has been pointed out that the reason for the company's poor performance is the bad relations among the management.

Links internal conflict within management to company performance.

8

世代せだいえた対立たいりつは、家庭かていにおけるなかわるさのあらわれとえるだろう。

The intergenerational conflict can be said to be a manifestation of bad relations within the family.

Frames intergenerational conflict as a symptom of familial discord.

1

両国りょうこく歴史れきし紐解ひもとくと、幾度いくどとなくなかわる時代じだいかえしてきたことがかる。

Unraveling the history of the two countries reveals that they have repeatedly gone through periods of bad relations.

紐解ひもとく (to unravel, to untangle) and かえす (to repeat) add a sophisticated temporal and analytical layer.

2

長年ながねん確執かくしつ原因げんいんで、兄弟きょうだいあいだには修復しゅうふくがたいほどのなかわるさがじていた。

Due to long-standing animosity, a level of bad relations that was difficult to repair had arisen between the brothers.

確執かくしつ (animosity, feud) and 修復しゅうふくがたい (difficult to repair) add depth and complexity.

3

国際こくさい社会しゃかいにおける国家こっか「X」と「Y」のなかわるさは、地政学ちせいがく的な緊張きんちょう温床おんしょうとなっている。

The bad relations between nations 'X' and 'Y' in the international community have become a breeding ground for geopolitical tension.

地政学ちせいがく的 (geopolitical) and 緊張きんちょう温床おんしょう (breeding ground for tension) are advanced terms.

4

家族かぞくという枠組わくぐないじる根深ねぶか対立たいりつが、結果けっかとしてなかわるさを永続えいぞくさせている。

The deep-seated conflicts arising within the framework of the family perpetuate their bad relations.

枠組わくぐみ (framework) and 永続えいぞくさせる (to perpetuate) are sophisticated vocabulary choices.

5

人間にんげん心理しんりにおける愛憎あいぞう錯綜さくそうが、ときとして露骨ろこつなかわるさとしてあらわれる。

The entanglement of love and hate in human psychology sometimes manifests as overt bad relations.

愛憎あいぞう (love and hate) and 錯綜さくそう (entanglement) are advanced psychological terms.

6

歴史れきし教訓きょうくん無視むしした結果けっか両国りょうこく再びふたたびなかわる関係かんけいへとぎゃくした。

Ignoring the lessons of history, the two countries reverted to a relationship of bad terms.

教訓きょうくん (lesson) and ぎゃくした (reverted, went back) are sophisticated choices.

7

世代せだいまたいだ確執かくしつが、家族かぞくきずなむしばみ、結果けっかとして深刻しんこくなかわるさをまねいている。

The intergenerational feud has eroded the family's bonds, resulting in profound bad relations.

またいだ (spanning across generations) and むしばむ (to erode, to eat away) are advanced and evocative.

8

社会しゃかい分断ぶんだんは、しょ々の集団しゅうだんにおけるなかわるさを助長じょちょうしている。

Societal division is exacerbating bad relations within various groups.

分断ぶんだん (division) and 助長じょちょう (exacerbate, promote) are high-level terms.

Common Collocations

仲の悪い兄弟 (naka no warui kyōdai)
仲の悪い夫婦 (naka no warui fūfu)
仲の悪い同僚 (naka no warui dōryō)
仲の悪い国 (naka no warui kuni)
仲の悪い関係 (naka no warui kankei)
仲が悪くなる (naka ga waruku naru)
仲が悪い理由 (naka ga warui riyū)
仲の悪い時期 (naka no warui jiki)
仲の悪い状態 (naka no warui jōtai)
仲の悪いこと (naka no warui koto)

Common Phrases

仲が悪い (naka ga warui)

— To be on bad terms; to not get along well.

あの<ruby>二<rp>(</rp><rt>ふた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>人はいつも<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Ano futari wa itsumo naka ga warui. (Those two are always on bad terms.)

仲が悪くなる (naka ga waruku naru)

— To become estranged; to fall out.

些細<rp>(</rp><rt>ささい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>なことで<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>と<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>くなった。<br>Sasai na koto de kare to naka ga waruku natta. (They became estranged over a trivial matter.)

仲の悪い関係 (naka no warui kankei)

— A bad relationship; estranged relations.

両国<rp>(</rp><rt>りょうこく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>続<rp>(</rp><rt>つづ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>けている。<br>Ryōkoku wa naka no warui kankei o tsuzukete iru. (The two countries are continuing their bad relationship.)

仲が悪い理由 (naka ga warui riyū)

— The reason for being on bad terms.

彼らが<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>理由<rp>(</rp><rt>りゆう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>何<rp>(</rp><rt>なに</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>?<br>Karera ga naka ga warui riyū wa nani? (What is the reason they are on bad terms?)

仲が悪いことを知っている (naka ga warui koto o shitte iru)

— To know that (someone) is on bad terms.

あの<ruby>二<rp>(</rp><rt>ふた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>人が<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>いことを<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>知<rp>(</rp><rt>し</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>っている。<br>Ano futari ga naka ga warui koto o watashi wa shitte iru. (I know that those two are on bad terms.)

仲が悪いようだ (naka ga warui yō da)

— It seems (they) are on bad terms.

あの<ruby>夫婦<rp>(</rp><rt>ふうふ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>いようだ。<br>Ano fūfu wa naka ga warui yō da. (It seems that couple is on bad terms.)

仲が悪いまま (naka ga warui mama)

— To remain on bad terms.

彼らは<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>いまま<ruby>過<rp>(</rp><rt>す</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>ごしている。<br>Karera wa naka ga warui mama sugoshite iru. (They are living while remaining on bad terms.)

仲の悪い時期 (naka no warui jiki)

— A period of bad relations.

あの<ruby>頃<rp>(</rp><rt>ころ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>たちにとって<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>時期<rp>(</rp><rt>じき</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だった。<br>Ano koro wa kare-tachi ni totte naka no warui jiki datta. (That was a period of bad relations for them.)

仲の悪いことと知らずに (naka no warui koto to shirazu ni)

— Without knowing that (they) are on bad terms.

<ruby>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>と<ruby>彼女<rp>(</rp><rt>かのじょ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>こと<rp>(</rp><rt>こと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>知<rp>(</rp><rt>し</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>らずに<ruby>紹介<rp>(</rp><rt>しょうかい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>した。<br>Watashi wa kare to kanojo ga naka no warui koto o shirazu ni shōkai shita. (I introduced him and her without knowing they were on bad terms.)

仲の悪い状況 (naka no warui jōkyō)

— A situation of bad relations.

<ruby>両国<rp>(</rp><rt>りょうこく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>状況<rp>(</rp><rt>じょうきょう</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>に<ruby>陥<rp>(</rp><rt>おちい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>った。<br>Ryōkoku wa naka no warui jōkyō ni ochiitta. (The two countries fell into a situation of bad relations.)

Often Confused With

仲の悪い vs 仲が良い (naka ga ii)

This is the direct opposite, meaning "on good terms" or "getting along well." It's important not to confuse the adjective 'warui' (bad) with 'ii' (good).

仲の悪い vs そりが合わない (sori ga awanai)

While both indicate a lack of harmony, そりが合わない implies incompatibility or not clicking, whereas 仲の悪い suggests a more active or ingrained state of discord or animosity.

仲の悪い vs 対立する (tairitsu suru)

仲の悪い describes the state of the relationship, while 対立する is a verb describing the action or state of being in conflict or opposition.

Idioms & Expressions

"仲たがい (nakatagai)"

— A falling out or estrangement between people who were previously on good terms, especially friends or family.

長年の友人ゆうじんとのなかたがいはかなしい。
Naganen no yūjin to no nakatagai wa kanashii. (A falling out with a long-time friend is sad.)

Informal
"壁を作る (kabe o tsukuru)"

— To build a wall (metaphorically), meaning to create distance or become estranged from someone, often leading to a state of being on bad terms.

彼らはたがいにかべつくってしまったようだ。
Karera wa tagai ni kabe o tsukutte shimatta yō da. (It seems they have built a wall between each other.)

Metaphorical
"顔を合わせない (kao o awasenai)"

— To avoid seeing each other; to not face each other. This often implies a strained relationship where people actively avoid contact.

なかわるいので、かおわせないようにしている。
Naka ga warui node, kao o awasenai yō ni shite iru. (Since they are on bad terms, they are trying to avoid seeing each other.)

Descriptive of avoidance
"水と油 (mizu to abura)"

— Like water and oil; incompatible. This idiom describes two things or people that cannot mix or get along, often implying a fundamental incompatibility that leads to bad relations.

あの二人ふたりみずあぶらだ。
Ano futari wa mizu to abura da. (Those two are like water and oil.)

Idiomatic Comparison
"犬猿の仲 (ken'en no naka)"

— A relationship of intense animosity, like that between a dog and a monkey. This idiom describes a relationship that is extremely bad or hostile.

彼らは犬猿けんえんなかだ。
Karera wa ken'en no naka da. (They have a relationship of intense animosity.)

Idiomatic Comparison
"猫の首に鈴 (neko no kubi ni suzu)"

— Putting a bell on a cat's neck (a task that is difficult or impossible to achieve). While not directly about bad relations, it can be used metaphorically to describe situations where attempts to resolve conflict or improve a bad situation are futile.

かれらのなかなおそうとするのはねこくびすずだ。
Karera no naka o naosō to suru no wa neko no kubi ni suzu da. (Trying to fix their relationship is like putting a bell on a cat.)

Idiomatic Metaphor
"針のむしろ (hari no mushiro)"

— Sitting on a bed of needles; being in an extremely uncomfortable or anxious situation. This can describe the feeling of being in a strained or hostile environment, often due to bad relations.

かれまわりははりのむしろだった。
Kare no mawari wa hari no mushiro datta. (He was in a situation like sitting on needles around him.)

Idiomatic description of discomfort
"冷戦状態 (reisen jōtai)"

— Cold war state; a state of prolonged tension and hostility without open conflict. This can be used to describe prolonged bad relations between individuals, groups, or nations.

あのふたつの部署ぶしょ冷戦状態れいせんじょうたいだ。
Ano futatsu no busho wa reisen jōtai da. (Those two departments are in a cold war state.)

Metaphorical/Political
"絶交する (zekkō suru)"

— To break off relations; to cut someone off completely. This is a strong action taken when relations are extremely bad.

彼らとは絶交ぜっこうした。
Karera to wa zekkō shita. (I broke off relations with them.)

Strong action
"縁を切る (en o kiru)"

— To cut ties; to sever connections. Similar to 絶交する, this implies a complete break from a relationship, often due to severe conflict or bad relations.

おやえんった。
Oya to en o kitta. (I cut ties with my parents.)

Strong action

Easily Confused

仲の悪い vs 不仲 (funaka)

Both describe strained relationships.

<mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> is an adjective (or adjectival phrase) describing the state of being on bad terms. 不仲 is a noun meaning "estrangement" or "bad relations." You would say someone 'is' <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> (naka ga warui) or they have <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> relations (naka no warui kankei). You would say they are experiencing <ruby>不仲<rp>(</rp><rt>ふなか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> (funaka) or that <ruby>不仲<rp>(</rp><rt>ふなか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby> has occurred.

彼らは<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Kare-ra wa naka ga warui. (They are on bad terms.)<br><br>彼らの<ruby>間<rp>(</rp><rt>あいだ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>には<ruby>不仲<rp>(</rp><rt>ふなか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>がある。<br>Karera no aida ni wa funaka ga aru. (There is estrangement between them.)

仲の悪い vs 険悪な (ken'aku na)

Both describe negative relationships.

<mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> is a general term for being on bad terms, which can include a lack of friendliness or mild animosity. 険悪な (ken'aku na) is much stronger, meaning "hostile," "acrimonious," or "fierce." It implies active antagonism and is usually reserved for more serious conflicts, like between nations or bitter rivals.

二<rp>(</rp><rt>ふた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>つの<ruby>国<rp>(</rp><rt>くに</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Futatsu no kuni wa naka ga warui. (The two countries are on bad terms.)<br><br>両国<rp>(</rp><rt>りょうこく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>険悪<rp>(</rp><rt>けんあく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だ。<br>Ryōkoku wa ken'aku na kankei da. (The two countries have a hostile relationship.)

仲の悪い vs そりが合わない (sori ga awanai)

Both indicate people don't get along.

<mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> implies a negative relationship, often with underlying conflict or dislike. そりが合わない is more about a lack of compatibility or clashing personalities; people just don't click or mesh well, and it might not necessarily involve active animosity, just a lack of harmony or synergy. It's less about active conflict and more about a fundamental mismatch.

彼ら<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仕事<rp>(</rp><rt>しごと</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>進<rp>(</rp><rt>すす</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>め<ruby>方<rp>(</rp><rt>かた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で<ruby>意見<rp>(</rp><rt>いけん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>食<rp>(</rp><rt>く</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>違<rp>(</rp><rt>ちが</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い、<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>くなった。<br>Karera wa shigoto no susumekata de iken ga kuichigai, naka ga waruku natta. (Their opinions clashed on how to proceed with work, and they became on bad terms.)<br><br>私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>と<ruby>彼女<rp>(</rp><rt>かのじょ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>どうも<rp>(</rp><rt>どうも</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>そりが<ruby>合<rp>(</rp><rt>あ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>わない。<br>Watashi to kanojo wa dōmo sori ga awanai. (She and I just don't get along/aren't compatible.)

仲の悪い vs 冷たい (tsumetai)

Both describe a lack of warmth.

<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>つめ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>たい (tsumetai - cold) describes a lack of warmth, friendliness, or emotional connection, often implying indifference or distance. <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> implies active discord, animosity, or conflict. A relationship can be <ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>つめ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>たい without necessarily being <ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い, and vice versa, though they often overlap.

彼らの<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>冷<rp>(</rp><rt>つめ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>たい。<br>Karera no kankei wa tsumetai. (Their relationship is cold.)<br><br>彼らは<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Karera wa naka ga warui. (They are on bad terms.)

仲の悪い vs 対立する (tairitsu suru)

Both relate to conflict.

<mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> is an adjective describing the state of a relationship (being on bad terms). 対立する is a verb meaning "to be in conflict," "to oppose," or "to confront." You can be <ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い because you <ruby>対立<rp>(</rp><rt>たいりつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>している (tairitsu shite iru - are in conflict). The former describes the static condition, the latter the dynamic action or state of opposition.

彼らは<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Karera wa naka ga warui. (They are on bad terms.)<br><br>彼らは<ruby>激<rp>(</rp><rt>げき</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>しく<ruby>対立<rp>(</rp><rt>たいりつ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>している。<br>Karera wa hageshiku tairitsu shite iru. (They are in fierce conflict.)

Sentence Patterns

A2

[Subject] は 仲が悪い。

あの<ruby>二人<rp>(</rp><rt>ふたり</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Ano futari wa naka ga warui. (Those two are on bad terms.)

A2

[Subject] と 仲が悪い。

私<rp>(</rp><rt>わたし</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>と<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Watashi wa kare to naka ga warui. (I am on bad terms with him.)

B1

仲の悪い [Noun]

<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>国<rp>(</rp><rt>くに</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>。<br>Naka no warui kuni. (Countries on bad terms.)

B1

[Subject] は [Reason] から 仲が悪い。

意見<rp>(</rp><rt>いけん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>違<rp>(</rp><rt>ちが</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>いから<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。<br>Iken no chigai kara naka ga warui. (They are on bad terms due to differences in opinion.)

B1

[Subject] は 仲が悪くなった。

彼ら<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>くなった。<br>Karera wa naka ga waruku natta. (They became on bad terms.)

B2

[Subject] は 仲の悪い [Noun] を持っている。

<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>を<ruby>持<rp>(</rp><rt>も</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>っている。<br>Kare wa naka no warui kankei o motte iru. (He has a bad relationship.)

B2

[Situation] は 仲の悪さを物語っている。

その<ruby>沈黙<rp>(</rp><rt>ちんもく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は、<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>らの<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>さを<ruby>物語<rp>(</rp><rt>ものがた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>っている。<br>Sono chinmoku wa, karera no naka no warusa o monogataratte iru. (That silence tells of their bad relations.)

C1

[Cause] が原因で、仲が悪くなる/仲の悪い関係になる。

<ruby>文化<rp>(</rp><rt>ぶんか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>の<ruby>違<rp>(</rp><rt>ちが</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>いが<ruby>原因<rp>(</rp><rt>げんいん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>で、<ruby>彼<rp>(</rp><rt>かれ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>らの<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>くなった。<br>Bunka no chigai ga gen'in de, karera no kankei wa naka ga waruku natta. (Due to cultural differences, their relationship became bad.)

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

Related

How to Use It

frequency

Common

Common Mistakes
  • Using 仲の悪い when 仲が悪い is more appropriate (predicative use). 彼らは<ruby>仲<rp>(</rp><rt>なか</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>悪<rp>(</rp><rt>わる</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>い。

    When describing the subject directly (e.g., 'they'), 仲が悪い with the particle が is the standard predicative form. 仲の悪い is used when modifying a noun.

  • Using 仲の悪い for minor disagreements. あの<ruby>二<rp>(</rp><rt>ふた</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>人は<ruby>意見<rp>(</rp><rt>いけん</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>が<ruby>合<rp>(</rp><rt>あ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>わない。

    If it's just a simple disagreement or difference of opinion, phrases like 意見が合わない (iken ga awanai - opinions don't match) might be more suitable than implying a deep rift with <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark>.

  • Confusing 仲が悪い with そりが合わない. 彼らとは<ruby>どうも<rp>(</rp><rt>どうも</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>そりが<ruby>合<rp>(</rp><rt>あ</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>わない。

    そりが合わない implies incompatibility or a lack of chemistry, not necessarily active conflict or animosity, which <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> often suggests.

  • Incorrect pronunciation, stressing the wrong syllable. na-KA no WA-ru-i

    The primary stress is on the 'wa' in 'warui', not on 'naka'. Proper stress helps with naturalness.

  • Using 仲の悪い in formal contexts where a stronger term like 険悪な関係 is needed. 両国<rp>(</rp><rt>りょうこく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>は<ruby>険悪<rp>(</rp><rt>けんあく</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>な<ruby>関係<rp>(</rp><rt>かんけい</rt><rp>)</rp></ruby>だ。

    <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> is general. For hostile international relations, 険悪な関係 (ken'aku na kankei) is more precise and appropriate.

Tips

の vs. が

Remember that when 仲の悪い directly modifies a noun (like in なかわる関係かんけい), use の. When it acts as a predicate describing the subject (like in 彼らはなかわるい), use が.

Antonyms and Synonyms

Learning the antonym なかい (naka ga ii - on good terms) and related terms like 不仲 (funaka - estrangement) will help you understand the spectrum of relationship dynamics.

Stress and Rhythm

Focus on stressing the 'wa' in 'warui' (na-KA no WA-ru-i) to sound more natural. The 'ru' at the end is often very light.

Visual Association

Imagine a broken bridge symbolizing a broken relationship. The word 'warui' (bad) can be associated with 'rotten' or 'decayed' to emphasize the negative state of the 'naka' (relationship).

Harmony vs. Discord

In Japanese culture, harmony is valued. Acknowledging 仲の悪い situations highlights when this harmony is disrupted, making the phrase socially relevant.

Sentence Building

Create your own sentences using 仲の悪い to describe fictional characters or scenarios. This active recall is crucial for retention.

Avoid Overuse

While useful, avoid using 仲の悪い for very minor disagreements. Consider if the situation truly implies a significant strain or animosity.

Verb Forms

Learn the verb form なかが悪くなる (naka ga waruku naru - to become estranged) to describe the process of a relationship deteriorating.

Nuance in Synonyms

Explore synonyms like 不仲 (funaka) and 険悪な (ken'aku na) to understand the subtle differences in intensity and formality when describing strained relationships.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine two people having a 'naka' (relationship) that is so bad, it's 'warui' (rotten). Picture a broken heart symbol in the middle of two figures to represent a bad relationship.

Visual Association

Visualize a broken bridge connecting two sides, with 'warui' (bad) written on the broken pieces. This represents a broken relationship.

Word Web

仲 (naka) - relationship 悪い (warui) - bad 関係 (kankei) - relation 友人 (yūjin) - friend 兄弟 (kyōdai) - sibling 夫婦 (fūfu) - couple 対立 (tairitsu) - conflict 不和 (fuwa) - discord

Challenge

Try to describe a fictional relationship between two characters (e.g., rivals, estranged siblings) using 仲の悪い and explain why their relationship is strained.

Word Origin

The phrase 仲の悪い is a combination of the noun 仲 (naka), meaning "relationship" or "between," and the adjective 悪い (warui), meaning "bad." The particle の (no) acts as a possessive or descriptive particle, linking "naka" and "warui" to form an adjectival phrase.

Original meaning: Literally, "bad relationship" or "relationship is bad."

Japonic

Cultural Context

While 仲の悪い is a direct term, its usage should be mindful of the context. Directly labeling someone as having 仲の悪い can be confrontational. It's often used to describe situations rather than as a direct accusation, especially in formal settings. In informal settings, it can be used more freely to describe gossip or personal observations.

In English, we have phrases like "on bad terms," "estranged," "not getting along," or "hostile relations." 仲の悪い encapsulates these meanings effectively in Japanese.

Many Japanese dramas and films feature storylines revolving around families or friends who are なかわるい, highlighting societal issues of discord. Historical accounts of conflicts between nations often use terms like なかわるい or equivalent phrases to describe strained diplomatic relations. Literature frequently explores the psychological impact of なかわるい relationships on individuals and society.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Family relationships

  • 仲の悪い兄弟
  • 仲の悪い夫婦
  • 家族の不和
  • 親子関係

Friendships

  • 友達との仲たがい
  • 仲が悪くなる
  • 絶交する
  • 顔を合わせない

Workplace dynamics

  • 仲の悪い同僚
  • 部署間の対立
  • 冷戦状態
  • チームワーク

International relations

  • 仲の悪い国
  • 険悪な関係
  • 外交問題
  • 緊張関係

General social interactions

  • 仲が悪いようだ
  • 仲が悪い理由
  • そりが合わない
  • 意見が食い違う

Conversation Starters

"Do you know anyone who is on bad terms with their family?"

"What do you think causes people to become estranged from each other?"

"Have you ever experienced a situation where friends became on bad terms?"

"How do you think bad relations between countries affect ordinary people?"

"What's the difference between simply disagreeing and being on truly bad terms?"

Journal Prompts

Describe a time you witnessed or experienced a relationship that was <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark>. What were the reasons and consequences?

Reflect on the importance of harmony in relationships. How does <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> situations impact individuals and society?

Imagine a scenario where two characters have a <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> relationship. Write a short dialogue that reveals the tension between them.

How can one try to mend a <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> relationship, or is it sometimes better to let it be?

Consider the phrase <mark class='bg-rose-200 dark:bg-rose-800 px-0.5 rounded'>仲の悪い</mark> in the context of international relations. What are some current examples, and what are the implications?

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

The literal translation of 仲の悪い (naka no warui) is "bad relationship" or "relationship is bad." 仲 (naka) means "relationship" or "between," and 悪い (warui) means "bad."

Yes, they are very similar and often interchangeable. 仲が悪い (naka ga warui) is typically used predicatively, describing the subject directly (e.g., 彼らはなかわるい - They are on bad terms). 仲の悪い (naka no warui) is used more like an adjective phrase directly modifying a noun (e.g., なかわる関係かんけい - a bad relationship).

Primarily, 仲の悪い is used for interpersonal relationships. However, metaphorically, it can be applied to abstract concepts or entities that are in conflict or disharmony, such as 'bad relations' between countries or even conflicting ideas. It's less common for inanimate objects unless used poetically or figuratively.

The seriousness can vary greatly depending on the context. It can range from simple unfriendliness or not getting along (like そりが合わない) to deep animosity, estrangement, or a history of conflict. Context is key to understanding the intensity.

仲の悪い is a general term for being on bad terms. 険悪な関係 (ken'aku na kankei) means "hostile relations" and is much stronger, implying active antagonism and open conflict.

The negation is 仲が良くない (naka ga yoku nai) or more commonly, 仲が良い (naka ga ii), which means "on good terms" or "getting along well."

Yes, it can be used to describe animals that are in conflict or don't get along, for example, となりいぬなかわるい (tonari no inu to naka ga warui - on bad terms with the neighbor's dog).

Common reasons include misunderstandings, differing opinions, past conflicts, betrayal, jealousy, clashing personalities, or simply growing apart.

Directly telling someone they are なかわるい can be considered rude or blunt, especially in formal situations. It's often used to describe a situation observed or heard about, rather than a direct accusation.

Expose yourself to Japanese media like dramas, movies, and books where relationships are explored. Pay attention to how native speakers use the phrase in different contexts and try to imitate them in your own practice.

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