1.
ingratitude; failure to meet social obligations
The failure to repay kindness, maintain social relationships, or fulfill obligations toward others. Implies neglecting the expected give-and-take of human relationships.
不義理をして申し訳ない。
I'm sorry for neglecting my obligations to you.
長い間不義理をしておりました。
I have been neglectful of our relationship for a long time.
忙しさを理由に不義理を重ねてしまい、友人とすっかり疎遠になった。
Using busyness as an excuse, I repeatedly neglected my social duties and became completely estranged from my friends.
USAGE:
Most commonly used with する: 不義理をする (to fail in one's social obligations). Often used when reconnecting with someone after a long absence, as a form of apology for not maintaining contact.
WORD FORMATION:
不 (not) + 義理 (social obligation, duty). Literally 'without fulfilling one's obligations.'
CULTURAL NOTE:
Related to the Japanese concept of 義理 (social obligation). In Japanese culture, maintaining relationships through regular contact, gifts, and reciprocity is important. 不義理 implies a failure to uphold these expectations.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 不義理をする (to neglect one's social duties)
- 不義理を重ねる (to repeatedly neglect obligations)
- 不義理を詫びる (to apologize for neglecting obligations)