言語道断(ごんごどうだん)

ごんごどうだん
na-adjective, noun, expression
outrageous; unspeakable; beyond words
formalcommunication
1. outrageous; unspeakable
An expression of strong condemnation, indicating that something is so bad or unacceptable that it is beyond description with words.
そのような行為(こうい)は言語道断(ごんごどうだん)だ。
Such behavior is absolutely outrageous.
公金(こうきん)の横領(おうりょう)は言語道断(ごんごどうだん)の行為(こうい)である。
Embezzlement of public funds is an unspeakable act.
子供(こども)への虐待(ぎゃくたい)は言語道断(ごんごどうだん)だ。
Child abuse is absolutely unforgivable.

FOUR-CHARACTER IDIOM (四字熟語(よじじゅくご)):
言語(ごんご) (language, words) + 道断(どうだん) (cutting off the path)

Etymology

Originally a Buddhist term meaning a truth so profound that it cannot be expressed in words. The modern meaning has shifted to describe something so bad it defies description.

Common patterns

Used as a na-adjective with だ/な or as a noun:

  • 言語道断(ごんごどうだん)だ (is outrageous)
  • 言語道断(ごんごどうだん)な行為(こうい) (outrageous act)

Register

Formal. Often used in serious contexts like news reports, official statements, or when expressing strong moral condemnation.

Similar words

Related Words

Compare: とんでもない (outrageous, absurd)
Compare: 論外(ろんがい) (out of the question)
general
Added 2026.1.17 13:09 · Revised 2026.9.2 12:02
06000/06145_gongodoudan