不健康な
不健康な in 30 Seconds
- Means 'unhealthy'.
- Describes bad habits, diet, or environments.
- Opposite of 'healthy' (健康).
- Diet: Foods high in sugar, fat, or processed ingredients are often described as '不健康な食べ物' (unhealthy food).
- Lifestyle: A sedentary lifestyle, excessive screen time, or lack of sleep can be labeled as '不健康な生活習慣' (unhealthy lifestyle habits).
- Environment: Living in a polluted area or a stressful environment might be considered '不健康な環境' (unhealthy environment).
- Physical/Mental State: While less common for direct medical diagnosis (where more specific terms are used), it can broadly refer to a state of being unwell or lacking vitality.
- Figurative Use: Occasionally, it can be used metaphorically to describe things that are not sound or beneficial in a non-physical sense, such as '不健康な人間関係' (unhealthy relationships), though this is more advanced usage.
This kind of fast food is extremely unhealthy.
- 不健康な食生活 (fukenkona shokuseikatsu): Unhealthy eating habits.
- 不健康な運動不足 (fukenkona undoubusoku): Unhealthy lack of exercise.
- 不健康な生活を送る (fukenkona seikatsu wo okuru): To lead an unhealthy life.
Spending too much time indoors can lead to a very unhealthy lifestyle.
- 夜遅くまで起きているのは不健康な習慣です。 (Yoru osoku made okite iru no wa fukenkona shuukan desu.) - Staying up late at night is an unhealthy habit.
- 彼は不健康な生活を送っている。 (Kare wa fukenkona seikatsu wo okutte iru.) - He is leading an unhealthy life.
Eating too much sugar is a very unhealthy habit.
- このファストフードは不健康な食べ物だ。 (Kono fasutofūdo wa fukenkona tabemono da.) - This fast food is unhealthy food.
- バランスの取れた食事は健康に良いが、不健康な食事は体に悪い。 (Baransu no toreta shokuji wa kenkou ni yoi ga, fukenkona shokuji wa karada ni warui.) - A balanced diet is good for health, but an unhealthy diet is bad for the body.
- 換気の悪い部屋は不健康な環境と言える。 (Kanki no warui heya wa fukenkona kankyou to ieru.) - A poorly ventilated room can be called an unhealthy environment.
- 過度なストレスは不健康な状態を招く。 (Kado na sutoresu wa fukenkona joutai wo maneku.) - Excessive stress invites an unhealthy state.
This place has a very unhealthy atmosphere.
- 不健康な生活をする (fukenkona seikatsu wo suru) - To live an unhealthy life.
- 不健康な状態になる (fukenkona joutai ni naru) - To become unhealthy.
The doctor warned him about his unhealthy habits.
This office culture can be quite unhealthy for mental well-being.
Mistake: 彼は不健康な病気にかかった。(He caught an unhealthy illness.) Correct: 彼は病気にかかった。(He caught an illness.) or 彼の生活習慣は不健康だ。(His lifestyle is unhealthy.)
Comparison: '不健康な食べ物' (unhealthy food) vs. '体に悪い食べ物' (food bad for the body). Both are widely understood and often interchangeable.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The prefix '不' is very common in Japanese and Chinese, used to negate the meaning of many words. For example, '可能' (kanou - possible) becomes '不可能' (fukanou - impossible). Similarly, '安全' (anzen - safe) becomes '危険' (kiken - dangerous), but the direct opposite using '不' would be '安全でない' (anzen de nai - not safe).
Pronunciation Guide
- Mispronouncing the 'fu' sound as a hard 'f'.
- Not clearly enunciating the 'ken' syllable.
- Omitting the 'na' ending, making it sound abrupt.
Difficulty Rating
At B1 level, learners can understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters. '不健康な' is a common adjective related to everyday topics like food, lifestyle, and environment, making it accessible for reading comprehension in this range.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Na-adjectives: Structure and Usage
'不健康な' is a na-adjective. It connects to nouns using 'な' (na), e.g., '不健康な食べ物'. When used predicatively (at the end of a sentence), the 'な' is often omitted, e.g., 'この食事は不健康だ', but it's safer for learners to use the full form or specify the noun like '不健康な状態だ'.
Using '〜になる' (ni naru) to indicate a change of state
This verb is used to show a transition. For example, '不健康な状態になる' (fukenkona joutai ni naru) means 'to become unhealthy'.
Using '〜すぎる' (sugiru) to indicate excess
While not directly with '不健康な', it's related. '食べすぎる' (tabesugiru - to eat too much) can lead to '不健康な食生活' (fukenkona shokuseikatsu - unhealthy diet).
Using '〜べきだ' (beki da) for strong recommendations/advice
不健康な食べ物は避けるべきだ。(Fukenkona tabemono wa sakeru beki da.) - You should avoid unhealthy food.
Using '〜と思う' (to omoimasu) to express opinion
夜更かしは不健康な習慣だと思います。(Yofukashi wa fukenkona shuukan da to omoimasu.) - I think staying up late is an unhealthy habit.
Examples by Level
これは よくない。
This is not good.
Simple negative sentence using 'yokunai'.
あまい たべもの。
Sweet food.
Basic noun phrase.
うんどう しない。
Don't exercise.
Verb negation.
ねむい。
Sleepy.
Adjective describing a state.
からだに わるい。
Bad for the body.
Common phrase indicating harm.
たべすぎ。
Eat too much.
Compound noun indicating excess.
きれい じゃない。
Not clean.
Negative adjective phrase.
よくない くうき。
Not good air.
Adjective modifying a noun.
この おかしは からだに わるいです。
This candy is bad for the body.
Using 'karada ni warui' with polite form 'desu'.
まいにち うんどう しないと、 ふこうに なります。
If you don't exercise every day, you will become unhappy/unwell.
Using conditional 'to' and 'fukou' (unhappy/unwell) as a result.
やさいを たくさん たべましょう。
Let's eat lots of vegetables.
Using the volitional form 'mashou' for suggestion.
よく ねむる ほうが いいです。
It is better to sleep well.
Using 'hou ga ii' for advice.
これは ふこうな たべものです。
This is unhealthy food.
Using 'fukou na' (unhealthy) as an adjective.
あさごはんを ぬくのは よくないです。
Skipping breakfast is not good.
Using nominalizer 'no' and 'yokunai desu'.
すこし あるく ほうが いいよ。
It's better to walk a little.
Casual advice using 'hou ga ii yo'.
きれいな みずを のんでください。
Please drink clean water.
Using 'kirei na' (clean) and 'te kudasai' for polite request.
この レストランの メニューは あまりにも 不健康な ものが 多いです。
This restaurant's menu has too many unhealthy items.
Using 'amari ni mo' (too much) and 'mono' (things) with 'fukenkona'.
夜更かしは 不健康な 生活習慣だと 思います。
I think staying up late is an unhealthy lifestyle habit.
Using 'to omoimasu' (I think) and 'seikatsu shuukan' (lifestyle habit).
運動不足は さまざまな 病気の 原因に なります。
Lack of exercise becomes the cause of various illnesses.
Using 'undoubusoku' (lack of exercise) and 'gen'in ni narimasu' (becomes the cause).
加工食品は しばしば 不健康な 添加物を 含んでいます。
Processed foods often contain unhealthy additives.
Using 'shibashiba' (often) and 'tenkabutsu' (additives).
健康的な 食事を 心がける ことが 大切です。
It is important to aim for a healthy diet.
Using 'kokorogakeru' (to aim for) and 'taisetsu desu' (is important).
彼は 昔から 不健康な 体質だった。
He has had an unhealthy constitution since long ago.
Using 'taishitsu' (constitution/physique) and 'datta' (past tense).
この 空気は あまりに 不健康な 感じが します。
This air feels too unhealthy.
Using 'kanji ga shimasu' (feels like).
現代社会では、 情報過多が 精神的に 不健康な 状態を 招くことがある。
In modern society, information overload can sometimes lead to a mentally unhealthy state.
Using 'jouhou kata' (information overload) and 'seishinteki ni' (mentally).
現代の都市生活は、しばしば不健康な環境要因を内包しており、住民の健康を脅かしている。
Modern urban life often contains unhealthy environmental factors, threatening the health of residents.
Using 'naihou shite ori' (containing) and 'kyoukyuuteki ni' (threatening).
過度なSNSの利用は、若者の間で精神的に不健康な依存症を引き起こす可能性がある。
Excessive social media use can potentially cause unhealthy addiction among young people.
Using 'kado na' (excessive), 'izonshou' (addiction), and 'hikokosu kanousei ga aru' (has the potential to cause).
不健康な食習慣は、長期的に見て生活習慣病のリスクを著しく高める。
Unhealthy eating habits significantly increase the risk of lifestyle-related diseases in the long term.
Using 'seikatsu shukanbyou' (lifestyle-related diseases) and 'chakushiku ni takameru' (significantly increase).
長時間のデスクワークは、身体的な不健康な状態を招きやすい。
Prolonged desk work easily leads to unhealthy physical conditions.
Using 'choujikan no desukuwāku' (long desk work) and 'maneki yasui' (easy to invite/lead to).
健康的なライフスタイルを維持するためには、不健康な誘惑に打ち勝つ強い意志が必要である。
To maintain a healthy lifestyle, a strong will is needed to overcome unhealthy temptations.
Using 'yuuwaku ni uchikatsu' (to overcome temptation) and 'tsuyoi ishi' (strong will).
この地域の水質は、一部で不健康なレベルに達しているという報告がある。
There are reports that the water quality in this region has reached unhealthy levels in some areas.
Using 'suishitsu' (water quality) and 'level ni tasshite iru' (has reached the level).
不健康な人間関係は、個人の精神的な安定を著しく損なう可能性がある。
Unhealthy relationships can significantly harm an individual's mental stability.
Using 'ningen kankei' (relationships) and 'seishinteki na antei' (mental stability).
現代社会における過度な情報消費は、精神的な不健康さを助長する一因となっている。
Excessive information consumption in modern society is a contributing factor to promoting mental unhealthiness.
Using 'jouhou shouhi' (information consumption) and 'jocyo suru ichiin' (a contributing factor to promote).
現代社会におけるライフスタイルの変化は、複合的な不健康要因を増大させ、公衆衛生上の課題を提起している。
Changes in lifestyle in modern society are increasing complex unhealthy factors, posing public health challenges.
Using 'fukugouteki na' (complex), 'zoudai sase' (increasing), and 'koujuu eiseijou no kadai' (public health challenges).
不健康な労働環境がもたらす精神的ストレスは、長期的に見て生産性の低下だけでなく、従業員のQOL(Quality of Life)をも著しく損なう。
The mental stress brought about by unhealthy working environments, in the long term, not only lowers productivity but also significantly impairs employees' QOL (Quality of Life).
Using 'roudou kankyou' (working environment), 'motarasu' (to bring about), and 'seisansei no teika' (lowering of productivity).
情報化社会における過剰なデジタルデトックスの欠如は、個人の認知機能に影響を与え、潜在的な不健康さを内包する。
The lack of sufficient digital detox in the information society affects individuals' cognitive functions and implies potential unhealthiness.
Using 'jouhouka shakai' (information society), 'dejitaru detokkusu no ketsujo' (lack of digital detox), and 'ninchi kinou' (cognitive function).
都市化の進行に伴う自然環境の劣化は、住民の身体的・精神的健康に多岐にわたる不健康な影響を及ぼしている。
The deterioration of the natural environment accompanying urban development is having diverse unhealthy effects on the physical and mental health of residents.
Using 'toshika no shinkou' (progress of urbanization), 'shizen kankyou no rekka' (deterioration of natural environment), and 'ta ki ni wataru' (spanning a wide range).
食のグローバル化は多様な食文化をもたらす一方で、不健康な食習慣の蔓延という側面も無視できない。
While the globalization of food brings diverse food cultures, the aspect of the spread of unhealthy eating habits cannot be ignored.
Using 'shoku no guroobaru-ka' (globalization of food), 'man'en' (spread/prevalence), and 'mushikirenai' (cannot be ignored).
ソーシャルメディア上の理想化されたライフスタイルは、現実との乖離から、多くのユーザーに不健康な自己肯定感の低下をもたらしている。
Idealized lifestyles on social media, due to their divergence from reality, are causing a decline in unhealthy self-esteem for many users.
Using 'risouka sareta' (idealized), 'genjitsu to no kairi' (divergence from reality), and 'jiko kouteikan no teika' (decline in self-esteem).
不健康な社会構造が個人のウェルビーイングに与える影響は、単なる個人の責任に帰することはできない。
The impact of unhealthy social structures on individual well-being cannot be attributed solely to individual responsibility.
Using 'shakai kouzou' (social structure), 'u~erubi~ingu' (well-being), and 'sekinin ni kisu suru koto ga dekinai' (cannot be attributed to responsibility).
過度な競争社会における「成功」の定義は、しばしば個人の心身の健康を犠牲にする不健康な価値観を内包している。
The definition of 'success' in an overly competitive society often encompasses unhealthy values that sacrifice individual physical and mental health.
Using 'kyousou shakai' (competitive society), 'shinshin no kenkou' (physical and mental health), and 'gishisei suru' (to sacrifice).
現代社会における複合的なストレス要因、すなわち情報過多、過度な競争、そして不健康な生活様式の蔓延は、精神神経免疫学的な観点からも、個人の恒常性維持能力を著しく低下させる。
The complex stress factors in modern society, namely information overload, excessive competition, and the prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles, significantly reduce an individual's ability to maintain homeostasis, even from a psychoneuroimmunological perspective.
Using 'fukugouteki na sutoresu youin' (complex stress factors), 'jouhou kata' (information overload), 'koukyousou' (prevalence), 'kouteisei iji nouryoku' (homeostasis maintenance ability), and 'seishin shinkei men'eki gaku teki na kentou' (psychoneuroimmunological perspective).
グローバル化と都市化の進展は、食文化の均質化を招き、結果として地域固有の栄養バランスを崩し、不健康な食習慣のグローバルな普及を助長するという皮肉な状況を生み出している。
The progress of globalization and urbanization has led to the homogenization of food culture, consequently disrupting regional nutritional balance and creating an ironic situation that promotes the global dissemination of unhealthy eating habits.
Using 'kinshitsu-ka' (homogenization), 'chiiki koyuu no eiyou baransu' (regionally unique nutritional balance), 'fukyuu wo jochyo suru' (promotes dissemination), and 'hirona joukyou' (ironic situation).
不健康な社会構造、特に所得格差の拡大や社会保障制度の脆弱性は、集団レベルでの健康格差を恒常化させ、公衆衛生政策における喫緊の課題となっている。
Unhealthy social structures, particularly the expansion of income disparity and the fragility of social security systems, perpetuate health disparities at the group level, becoming an urgent issue in public health policy.
Using 'shotoku kakusa no kakudai' (expansion of income disparity), 'shakai hoshou seido no zeijyakusei' (fragility of social security systems), 'shudan level de no kenkou kakusa' (health disparities at the group level), and 'koutsuuka sase' (to perpetuate).
デジタルネイティブ世代における情報過多およびソーシャルメディアへの過度な依存は、認知機能の発達に潜在的な影響を与え、自己肯定感の低下や精神的な不健康さを内包する複雑な心理的課題を提起する。
Information overload and excessive reliance on social media among the digital native generation potentially impact the development of cognitive functions, posing complex psychological challenges that include diminished self-esteem and mental unhealthiness.
Using 'dejitaru neitibu sedai' (digital native generation), 'ninchi kinou no hattatsu' (development of cognitive functions), and 'shinriteki kadai' (psychological challenges).
環境汚染、気候変動、そして不健康な消費文化の相乗効果は、地球規模での生態系の脆弱性を増大させ、人類の持続可能性に対する根源的な脅威となっている。
The synergistic effects of environmental pollution, climate change, and unhealthy consumer culture are increasing the vulnerability of ecosystems on a global scale, posing a fundamental threat to humanity's sustainability.
Using 'kankyou osen' (environmental pollution), 'kikou hendou' (climate change), 'shouhi bunka' (consumer culture), 'synergy kouka' (synergistic effects), and 'seitaikei no zeijyakusei' (ecosystem vulnerability).
不健康な生活様式がもたらす慢性疾患の増加は、医療システムに甚大な負担を強いるだけでなく、社会全体の生産性低下と福祉の減退を招く。
The increase in chronic diseases brought about by unhealthy lifestyles not only imposes an immense burden on healthcare systems but also leads to a decline in overall societal productivity and welfare.
Using 'mansei shikkan no zouka' (increase in chronic diseases), 'jin'ai na futan' (immense burden), 'seisansei teika' (decline in productivity), and 'fukushi no gentai' (welfare reduction).
個人の健康に対する責任を過度に強調する風潮は、社会構造的な不健康要因への目を向けさせず、問題の根源的な解決を阻害する可能性がある。
The trend of excessively emphasizing individual responsibility for health can prevent attention from being drawn to structural unhealthy factors, potentially hindering fundamental solutions to the problem.
Using 'sekinin wo kadoni kyouchou suru' (to excessively emphasize responsibility), 'shakou kouzouteki na' (structural), and 'kongenteki na kaiketsu wo sogai suru' (to hinder fundamental solution).
情報技術の急速な進歩は、利便性を向上させる一方で、デジタル依存や情報過多といった新たな不健康な側面を生み出し、人間の認知および情動の恒常性を揺るがしている。
While the rapid advancement of information technology enhances convenience, it also creates new unhealthy aspects such as digital dependency and information overload, shaking the homeostasis of human cognition and emotion.
Using 'jouhou gijutsu no sousoku na shinpo' (rapid advancement of information technology), 'shinjou' (emotion), and 'kouteisei wo yurugashite iru' (shaking homeostasis).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Unhealthy eating habits or diet.
現代人は不健康な食生活になりがちだ。(Gendaijin wa fukenkona shokuseikatsu ni narigachi da.) - Modern people tend to have unhealthy eating habits.
— Unhealthy lifestyle habits.
不健康な生活習慣を改善するために、運動を始めた。(Fukenkona seikatsu shuukan wo kaizen suru tame ni, undou wo hajimeta.) - I started exercising to improve my unhealthy lifestyle habits.
— Unhealthy food.
このファストフードは不健康な食べ物の典型です。(Kono fasutofūdo wa fukenkona tabemono no tenkei desu.) - This fast food is a typical example of unhealthy food.
— An unhealthy environment.
汚染された空気は不健康な環境を作り出す。(Osen sareta kuuki wa fukenkona kankyou wo tsukuridasu.) - Polluted air creates an unhealthy environment.
— An unhealthy body or constitution.
彼は不健康な体質なので、病気になりやすい。(Kare wa fukenkona taishitsu nano de, byouki ni nariyasui.) - Because he has an unhealthy constitution, he easily gets sick.
— An unhealthy state or condition.
長時間の労働で不健康な状態になった。(Choujikan no roudou de fukenkona joutai ni natta.) - I became unhealthy due to long working hours.
— Unhealthy lack of exercise.
不健康な運動不足は、多くの健康問題の原因となる。(Fukenkona undoubusoku wa, ooku no kenkou mondai no gen'in to naru.) - Unhealthy lack of exercise becomes the cause of many health problems.
— An unhealthy mind or mental state (often figurative).
不健康な精神状態を改善するためには、専門家の助けが必要だ。(Fukenkentona seishin joutai wo kaizen suru tame ni wa, senmonka no tasuke ga hitsuyou da.) - To improve an unhealthy mental state, help from a specialist is needed.
— Unhealthy habits.
不健康な習慣をやめることは、健康への第一歩です。(Fukenkona shuukan wo yameru koto wa, kenkou he no daiippo desu.) - Quitting unhealthy habits is the first step towards health.
— An unhealthy society (figurative).
不健康な社会では、人々は安心して暮らせない。(Fukenkentona shakai de wa, hitobito wa anshin shite kurasenai.) - In an unhealthy society, people cannot live with peace of mind.
Often Confused With
'病気' means illness or disease. '不健康な' describes a state or quality that *leads to* or is associated with illness, or a general lack of health. You can have an 'unhealthy lifestyle' (不健康な生活) that might cause 'illness' (病気).
This is a more literal translation of 'not healthy'. While grammatically correct, '不健康な' is a more established and commonly used adjective.
'良くない' means 'not good' and is broader. It can apply to health but also to many other things. '不健康な' is specifically about health.
Idioms & Expressions
— To lead an unhealthy life; to live in a way that is detrimental to one's health.
彼は毎日遅くまで働き、不健康な生活を送っている。
Neutral— To eat unhealthy food.
たまには不健康なものを食べるのも楽しい。
Informal— To become unhealthy; to fall into an unhealthy condition.
睡眠不足が続くと、不健康な状態になりやすい。
Neutral— To break unhealthy habits.
健康のためには、不健康な習慣を断つことが重要だ。
Neutral— To breathe unhealthy air; to be in a polluted or unhealthy environment (can be literal or figurative).
この工場の近くでは、不健康な空気を吸うことになる。
Neutral— To place oneself in an unhealthy environment.
彼は自ら不健康な環境に身を置いているようだ。
Neutral— An unhealthy way of thinking; a negative or detrimental mindset.
不健康な考え方をしていると、人生も暗くなる。
Neutral— An unhealthy constitution or predisposition to illness.
彼女は生まれつき不健康な体質なので、気をつけている。
Neutral— To avoid unhealthy things (food, habits, etc.).
健康のために、不健康なものを避けるようにしている。
Neutral— To escape from an unhealthy lifestyle.
彼は長年の不健康な生活から抜け出す決意をした。
NeutralEasily Confused
Both relate to negative states of health.
'不健康な' describes a quality or state that is detrimental to health (e.g., an unhealthy diet, an unhealthy lifestyle). '病気' refers to a specific illness or disease that one contracts. You can have an unhealthy lifestyle without having a specific illness, but an unhealthy lifestyle increases the risk of getting a '病気'.
不健康な食生活は、生活習慣病という病気の原因になります。(Fukenkona shokuseikatsu wa, seikatsu shukanbyou to iu byouki no gen'in ni narimasu.) - Unhealthy eating habits become the cause of diseases called lifestyle-related diseases.
Both relate to the state of being.
'元気な' means energetic, lively, or generally well and in good spirits. It emphasizes vitality and a positive feeling of being healthy. '不健康な' is the direct opposite, indicating a lack of health or a detrimental state. You can be '元気な' without being perfectly '健康な' (e.g., having a minor ailment but still feeling energetic), but you cannot be '不健康な' and feel '元気な'.
彼は風邪をひいているが、元気そうだ。(Kare wa kaze wo hiite iru ga, genki sou da.) - He has a cold, but he seems energetic. (Here, 'genki' describes his outward appearance of energy despite being slightly unwell, not 'unhealthy').
Both describe something detrimental to health.
'体に悪い' is a more direct and often more colloquial phrase meaning 'bad for the body'. It's frequently used for food or specific actions. '不健康な' is a more formal adjective that can describe a broader range of things, including lifestyles, environments, and general states of being, not just specific foods or actions.
このラーメンは体に悪いよ。(Kono rāmen wa karada ni warui yo.) - This ramen is bad for you. (Informal). vs. このラーメンは不健康な食べ物だ。(Kono rāmen wa fukenkona tabemono da.) - This ramen is unhealthy food. (More descriptive/formal).
Both can translate to 'healthy' or 'sound'.
'健全な' means sound, wholesome, or morally upright. It can apply to physical health but is often used for mental, moral, or social well-being (e.g., '健全な精神' - sound mind, '健全な社会' - sound society). '不健康な' is specifically about the absence of physical or mental health, often implying a negative or detrimental state.
健全な精神は、不健康な生活習慣によって損なわれることがある。(Kenzen na seishin wa, fukenkona seikatsu shuukan ni yotte sokonawareru koto ga aru.) - A sound mind can be damaged by unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Both relate to a positive state of the body.
'丈夫な' means strong, robust, or durable. It emphasizes physical resilience and the ability to withstand hardship or illness. '不健康な' is the opposite, describing a lack of strength and vulnerability to illness. Someone who is '丈夫な' is typically '健康な', but someone who is '健康な' is not necessarily exceptionally '丈夫な' (e.g., they might be healthy but not particularly muscular or resilient).
彼はとても丈夫な体をしている。(Kare wa totemo joubu na karada wo shite iru.) - He has a very robust body. (Implies good health and strength). vs. 彼は不健康な体をしている。(Kare wa fukenkona karada wo shite iru.) - He has an unhealthy body.
Sentence Patterns
このNounは 不健康な Nounです。
このお菓子は不健康なお菓子です。(Kono okashi wa fukenkona okashi desu.) - This candy is unhealthy candy.
Noun + は 不健康な Nounを します。
彼は不健康な生活をします。(Kare wa fukenkona seikatsu wo shimasu.) - He leads an unhealthy life.
Noun + は 不健康な Nounの 原因です。
運動不足は不健康な状態の原因です。(Undoubusoku wa fukenkona joutai no gen'in desu.) - Lack of exercise is the cause of an unhealthy state.
不健康なNoun + を やめる/避ける べきです。
不健康な食べ物を避けるべきです。(Fukenkona tabemono wo sakeru beki desu.) - You should avoid unhealthy food.
Noun + は しばしば 不健康な Nounを 引き起こす。
過度なストレスはしばしば不健康な精神状態を引き起こす。(Kado na sutoresu wa shibashiba fukenkona seishin joutai wo hikiokosu.) - Excessive stress often causes an unhealthy mental state.
不健康なNoun + は 長期的に見て Nounに 悪影響を 与える。
不健康な生活習慣は長期的に見て健康に悪影響を与える。(Fukenkona seikatsu shuukan wa choukiteki ni mite kenkou ni akueikyou wo ataeru.) - Unhealthy lifestyle habits negatively affect health in the long term.
Noun + は、 複合的な 不健康要因を 増大させる。
現代の都市生活は、複合的な不健康要因を増大させる。(Gendai no toshi seikatsu wa, fukugouteki na fukenkou youin wo zoudai saseru.) - Modern urban life increases complex unhealthy factors.
不健康なNoun + は、 個人の Nounを 損なう 可能性がある。
不健康な人間関係は、個人の精神的な安定を損なう可能性がある。(Fukenkentona ningen kankei wa, kojin no seishinteki na antei wo sokonau kanousei ga aru.) - Unhealthy relationships have the potential to harm an individual's mental stability.
Word Family
Nouns
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
Common
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Using '不健康だ' without a noun following it.
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この食事は不健康です。(Kono shokuji wa fukenkou desu.) or 不健康な食事です。(Fukenkona shokuji desu.)
'不健康な' is a na-adjective. While the 'な' can be omitted predicatively, it's clearer for learners to use it before a noun or specify the noun when making a statement. Saying just 'それは不健康だ' can be awkward; it's better to say 'それは不健康な状態だ' (that is an unhealthy state) or 'それは不健康な食べ物だ' (that is unhealthy food).
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Confusing '不健康な' with '病気'.
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'不健康な食生活' (unhealthy diet) vs. '糖尿病という病気' (the illness called diabetes).
'不健康な' describes a quality or state that is detrimental to health, while '病気' refers to a specific illness. An unhealthy diet increases the risk of developing a disease, but the diet itself is not the disease.
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Using '不健康な' for abstract concepts without clear context.
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不健康な人間関係 (fukenkentona ningen kankei - unhealthy relationships) or 不健全な社会 (fukenkentona shakai - unhealthy society).
While '不健康な' can be used figuratively, it's more common for physical health. For abstract concepts like relationships or society, '不健全な' (fukenkentona - unsound, morally or mentally) is often preferred and clearer. Ensure the context supports the figurative use.
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Mispronouncing '不健康な' as if it were a single, difficult word.
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Break it down: fu-ken-ko-na.
Pronouncing it syllable by syllable helps with clarity. Emphasize each part distinctly rather than trying to rush through it as one long word. The 'fu' sound should be soft, and the 'ken' clear.
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Using '不健康な' to describe something that is merely 'not good' in a general sense.
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This situation is '良くない' (yokunai - not good). This food is '不健康な' (fukenkona - unhealthy).
'不健康な' specifically relates to health. If something is not good in a broader sense (e.g., a boring movie, a rude comment), use '良くない' or other appropriate adjectives. Don't overuse '不健康な' for non-health-related negativity.
Tips
Focus on the Syllables
Break down '不健康な' (fu-ken-ko-na) into its syllables. Ensure each syllable is pronounced clearly. Pay attention to the 'ken' sound and the soft 'ko-na' ending. Avoid rushing the pronunciation.
Learn Related Terms
When you learn '不健康な', also learn its antonym '健康な' (kenkou na - healthy) and related terms like '体に悪い' (karada ni warui - bad for the body) and '病気' (byouki - illness) to build a richer understanding of health-related vocabulary.
Na-Adjective Reminder
As a 'na'-adjective, '不健康な' needs 'な' before a noun. For example, '不健康な食べ物'. If you're using it at the end of a sentence, you might say 'この食事は不健康だ' (This meal is unhealthy), but be aware that the 'な' is often omitted in predicative use, which can be confusing for learners.
Create Associations
Use mnemonics or visual aids. Imagine 'fu' as in 'food', and 'kenkou' as in 'can go'. If your food is unhealthy ('fu-ken-koh-na'), you 'can't go' out and play. This helps link the sound and meaning.
Sentence Creation
Actively create your own sentences using '不健康な'. Try describing your own habits, foods you eat, or even imaginary scenarios. The more you use it, the more natural it will become.
Cultural Context
Understand that in Japanese culture, health is often viewed holistically. While '不健康な' is common, discussions about well-being might also involve concepts like balance and moderation.
Avoid Overgeneralization
Do not use '不健康な' to directly diagnose medical conditions. It's best suited for lifestyle, habits, and general states of well-being, not for specific diseases.
Listen for Context
When you hear '不健康な', pay attention to the noun it modifies and the surrounding conversation to grasp the specific meaning – whether it refers to food, habits, or an environment.
Identify the Subject
In written text, look for the noun that '不健康な' is describing. This will clarify whether the text is discussing unhealthy food, an unhealthy lifestyle, or an unhealthy environment.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Think of 'fu' sounding like 'foo' or 'food'. If you eat 'foo' (food) that is 'un-ken-koh-na' (unhealthy), you'll feel bad. The 'ken-koh' part sounds a bit like 'can go', suggesting if you're unhealthy, you can't go out and do things.
Visual Association
Imagine a person looking pale and slumped over a plate of greasy fast food, with a big red 'X' over them. The 'X' represents the '不' (fu - not) part, indicating that this food is 'unhealthy'.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three things in your daily life that are '不健康な' and explain why.
Word Origin
The word '不健康な' is composed of the negative prefix '不' (fu-) meaning 'not' or 'un-', and the noun '健康' (kenkou) meaning 'health'. The '-na' ending marks it as an adjective.
Original meaning: Literally 'not health' or 'lack of health'.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
While '不健康な' is a common adjective, avoid using it to directly diagnose someone's medical condition. It's best used for describing habits, lifestyles, or general states of being rather than specific illnesses.
In English-speaking cultures, 'unhealthy' is a common term used across various contexts, from personal diet choices to broader societal issues like unhealthy work environments or relationships. The emphasis on individual responsibility for health is also prevalent.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing food and diet.
- 不健康な食べ物 (unhealthy food)
- 不健康な食生活 (unhealthy diet)
- 体に悪い (bad for the body)
Talking about lifestyle and habits.
- 不健康な生活習慣 (unhealthy lifestyle habits)
- 不健康な生活を送る (to lead an unhealthy life)
- 運動不足 (lack of exercise)
Describing environments.
- 不健康な環境 (unhealthy environment)
- 汚い空気 (dirty air)
- 換気の悪い部屋 (poorly ventilated room)
General well-being and health concerns.
- 健康状態 (health condition)
- 体調が悪い (feeling unwell)
- ストレスが多い (lots of stress)
Giving advice.
- 〜したほうがいい (it's better to do ~)
- 〜するべきだ (should do ~)
- 健康に気をつける (to pay attention to one's health)
Conversation Starters
"最近、食生活が不健康な気がするんだけど、何かアドバイスある?"
"運動不足で体が不健康な状態になってないか心配なんだ。"
"この街の空気って、ちょっと不健康な感じがしない?"
"健康的な生活を送るために、どんな不健康な習慣をやめたらいいかな?"
"最近、友達が不健康な生活を送っていて心配なんだ。"
Journal Prompts
Describe your typical daily diet. Is there anything you would consider '不健康な' (unhealthy) about it? How could you make it healthier?
Reflect on your lifestyle habits. Are there any '不健康な' (unhealthy) habits you currently have? What steps can you take to change them?
Think about your living or working environment. Are there any aspects that could be considered '不健康な' (unhealthy)? What changes could be made to improve it?
Consider the concept of 'health' beyond just physical well-being. How can one maintain '不健康でない' (not unhealthy) mental and emotional states?
Write about a time you experienced or observed the consequences of '不健康な' (unhealthy) choices. What did you learn from it?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions'不健康な' (fukenkona) means unhealthy and describes a state, habit, or quality that is bad for one's health. It's a general term. '病気' (byouki) means illness or disease, referring to a specific medical condition. For example, eating too much sugar is '不健康な' (unhealthy), and it can lead to diabetes, which is a '病気' (illness).
Yes, you can say '不健康な人' (fukenkona hito - an unhealthy person), but it's often used to describe their habits or lifestyle rather than as a direct medical diagnosis. It generally implies they have poor health due to their choices or circumstances. More specific terms might be used in medical contexts.
'不健康な' is a standard adjective and can be used in both formal and informal situations. However, in very casual conversation, people might opt for simpler phrases like '体に悪い' (karada ni warui - bad for the body).
Commonly described as '不健康な' are: '食生活' (shokuseikatsu - diet/eating habits), '生活習慣' (seikatsu shuukan - lifestyle habits), '食べ物' (tabemono - food), '環境' (kankyou - environment), and '状態' (joutai - state/condition).
The most common and direct translation for 'unhealthy' is '不健康な' (fukenkona). You can also use '体に悪い' (karada ni warui) which means 'bad for the body'.
Yes, it can be used metaphorically, especially when referring to relationships or social dynamics that are detrimental to mental well-being, for example, '不健康な人間関係' (fukenkentona ningen kankei - unhealthy relationships). However, this usage is more advanced.
The most direct opposite is '健康な' (kenkou na), meaning 'healthy'. Other related antonyms include '元気な' (genki na - energetic/lively) and '健全な' (kenzen na - sound/wholesome).
'不健康な' is a 'na'-adjective. This means it requires 'な' (na) when directly modifying a noun (e.g., '不健康な食べ物') and typically uses 'だ' (da) or 'です' (desu) when used predicatively (e.g., 'この食事は不健康だ/です').
The prefix '不' (fu-) is a negative prefix, meaning 'not', 'un-', or 'non-'. It's used to create the opposite meaning of a word. For example, '健康' (kenkou - health) becomes '不健康' (fukenkou - unhealthiness).
You can associate 'fu' with 'food' and 'kenkou' with 'can go'. If your food is 'un-ken-koh-na' (unhealthy), you 'can't go' out and play because you feel bad.
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Summary
The adjective '不健康な' (fukenkona) signifies a state or quality that is detrimental to health, commonly used for lifestyles, diets, and environments that are not conducive to well-being.
- Means 'unhealthy'.
- Describes bad habits, diet, or environments.
- Opposite of 'healthy' (健康).
Focus on the Syllables
Break down '不健康な' (fu-ken-ko-na) into its syllables. Ensure each syllable is pronounced clearly. Pay attention to the 'ken' sound and the soft 'ko-na' ending. Avoid rushing the pronunciation.
Context is Key
Remember that '不健康な' is used to describe things that are detrimental to health. It's commonly applied to diet, lifestyle, and environments. Always consider what is being described as unhealthy.
Learn Related Terms
When you learn '不健康な', also learn its antonym '健康な' (kenkou na - healthy) and related terms like '体に悪い' (karada ni warui - bad for the body) and '病気' (byouki - illness) to build a richer understanding of health-related vocabulary.
Na-Adjective Reminder
As a 'na'-adjective, '不健康な' needs 'な' before a noun. For example, '不健康な食べ物'. If you're using it at the end of a sentence, you might say 'この食事は不健康だ' (This meal is unhealthy), but be aware that the 'な' is often omitted in predicative use, which can be confusing for learners.
Example
不健康な食生活は病気の原因になります。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More food words
少々
B1A little; a few.
〜ほど
B1About; approximately; degree.
~ほど
B1About, approximately; to the extent of ~.
豊富な
B1Abundant, rich in.
ふんだんに
B1Lavishly; abundantly; generously (e.g., using ingredients).
足す
B1To add (e.g., to a sum, to ingredients).
添加物
B1Additive.
〜てから
B1After doing ~.
~てから
B1After doing (an action).
熟成させる
B1To age; to mature (food).