Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to express the phrase “something doesn’t work” in Japanese. Whether you want to convey this message in a formal or informal setting, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll provide you with various phrases, tips, and examples to help you navigate this expression with ease. Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Formal Expressions
When you need to express that something doesn’t work in a formal context, such as at work, in a professional environment, or when speaking to someone important, consider using the following phrases:
1. 動かない (ugokanai)
This is a simple and straightforward way to express that something won’t move, work, or function. It can be used for a wide range of situations, from malfunctioning equipment to non-responsive software.
Example: エアコンが動かないんです。(Eakon ga ugokanain desu.) – The air conditioner doesn’t work.
2. 使えない (tsukaenai)
When you want to say that something is unusable or not functional, 使えない is a useful phrase to remember. It can be applied to various scenarios, such as broken objects or malfunctioning tools.
Example: このパソコンは使えなくなりました。(Kono pasokon wa tsukaenaku narimashita.) – This computer has become unusable.
3. 機能しない (kinou shinai)
If you want to emphasize that something doesn’t function or operate properly, 機能しない is an appropriate phrase. It captures the essence of malfunctioning or a lack of functionality.
Example: このリモコンは機能しません。(Kono rimokon wa kinou shimasen.) – This remote control doesn’t work.
Informal Expressions
When you need to express that something doesn’t work in a more casual or informal setting, among friends, family, or coworkers you’re close with, try using these phrases:
1. 全然動かない (zenzen ugokanai)
This phrase adds emphasis by using 全然 (zenzen), meaning “not at all.” By saying 全然動かない, you’re emphasizing that something doesn’t work at all.
Example: このスピーカー、全然動かないよ。(Kono supiikaa, zenzen ugokanai yo.) – This speaker doesn’t work at all.
2. 使えないんだ (tsukaenainda)
By adding んだ (nda) to the phrase 使えない, you make it more conversational and assertive. It is commonly used among friends or acquaintances.
Example: この自転車、もう使えないんだ。(Kono jitensha, mou tsukaenainda.) – This bicycle is no longer usable.
3. 全然機能しない (zenzen kinou shinai)
In informal contexts, you can utilize 全然機能しない to express that something doesn’t work at all or lacks any functionality. The addition of 全然 (zenzen) adds emphasis and informality to the phrase.
Example: この新しいアプリ、全然機能しないんだ。(Kono atarashii apuri, zenzen kinou shinainda.) – This new app doesn’t work at all.
Tips for Usage
Here are a few additional tips to help you improve your usage of these expressions:
- Provide context: When explaining that something doesn’t work, make sure to provide enough context to clarify the situation clearly.
- Be polite: Even in informal settings, maintaining a level of politeness is essential. Be aware of the appropriate level of formality based on your relationship with the listener.
- Use hand gestures: If you’re unsure whether the other person understands your verbal message, accompanying your words with appropriate hand gestures can help convey your meaning.
- Ask for help: Instead of just stating that something doesn’t work, consider asking for assistance or offering suggestions to find a solution together.
Remember, effective communication goes beyond just using the right phrase. It also involves considering the person you’re speaking to, the situation, and adapting your tone and language accordingly.
Now that you have a solid understanding of how to say “something doesn’t work” in Japanese, you’ll feel more confident when facing situations where you need to express this idea. Remember to practice using these phrases regularly to improve your fluency. Enjoy exploring the Japanese language and culture!
