Translation and Meaning of: 駄作 - dasaku

If you have come across the Japanese word 駄作 (ださく) and are curious about its meaning, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore everything from the translation and origin to the everyday use of this expression, which carries a rather negative tone. Additionally, we will understand how it is perceived in Japanese culture and in what contexts it appears. If you are studying Japanese or simply have an interest in the language, you will find valuable information here.

What does 駄作 (ださく) mean?

The word 駄作 (ださく) is used to describe something of low quality, especially in the context of artistic or literary works. In English, it could be translated as "bad work," "poorly done piece," or even "creative failure." It carries a strong connotation, often indicating disappointment with the final outcome of a project.

It is worth noting that 駄作 is not limited to just books or movies. It can be applied to any creation considered mediocre, whether it be a painting, music, or even a commercial product. The term is straightforward and leaves no room for positive interpretations.

The origin and composition of 駄作

The etymology of 駄作 is interesting. The first kanji, 駄 (だ), means "useless" or "worthless," while the second, 作 (さく), means "work" or "creation." Together, they form a word that literally indicates a "useless work." This combination accurately reflects the pejorative meaning of the term.

It is interesting to note that 作 appears in several other words related to creation, such as 作品 (さくひん, "work of art") and 作家 (さっか, "writer/artist"). However, when accompanied by 駄, the meaning becomes completely opposite, demonstrating how kanji can radically change the meaning of words.

How and when to use 駄作 in everyday Japanese

駄作 is not a word that is used in formal or polite situations. It appears more in critiques, informal discussions, or when someone wants to express strong dissatisfaction with a work. For example, after watching a bad movie, a Japanese person might comment: "これは駄作だね" (This is a piece of junk, huh?).

However, it is important to be careful with its use. Calling something 駄作 can sound aggressive, especially if it is a creation by someone you know. In the professional world, critiques tend to be more subtle, using less direct expressions like あまり良くない (not very good) or 期待はずれ (disappointing).

"Bad work" in Japanese culture and media

In the Japanese entertainment industry, 駄作 is a term that appears frequently in reviews and online discussions. Film and literature critics do not hesitate to use it when they believe a work has failed in its objectives. Some fans also adopt the word to express frustration with sequels or adaptations that did not meet expectations.

It's worth mentioning that, despite its negative meaning, 駄作 is sometimes used in an exaggerated or even humorous way. In forums and social media, you may find comments like "今月のアニメは全部駄作だ" (All the animes this month are rubbish), where the exaggeration is part of the joke.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 失敗作 (shippaisaku) - Failed work
• つまらない作品 (tsumaranai sakuhin) - Boring work; without artistic value
• くだらない作品 (kudaranaisakuhin) - Insignificant work; trivial
• 粗悪品 (soaku-hin) - Low-quality product
• ひどい作品 (hidoi sakuhin) - Horrible work; unacceptable
• 落ち目の作品 (ochime no sakuhin) - Work in decline; with low reception

駄作

Romaji: dasaku
Kana: ださく
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: bad work; trash

Meaning in English: poor work;rubbish

Definition: Something of low quality and without value.

Example Sentences - (駄作) dasaku

See below some example sentences:

この映画は駄作だ。

Kono eiga wa dasaku da

This movie is a bad job.

• この - demonstrative pronoun that means "this"
• 映画 - noun meaning "film"
• は - grammatical particle that indicates the topic of the sentence
• 駄作 - noun that means "bad, failed work"
• だ - auxiliary verb that indicates the affirmative form in the present