Translation guide
The English word 'agile' can describe physical nimbleness, mental quickness, or a flexible approach to work. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Commonly used for physical lightness and ease of movement. Often describes people who can move without burden.
He ran up the stairs nimbly.
Emphasizes quickness and sharpness of movement. Slightly more formal or literary.
The cat caught the mouse with agile movements.
Colloquial adjective for quick, restless, or fidgety movement. Often used for small animals or children.
That kid is so agile I can't get a photo.
Describing a mind that is sharp, quick to understand, or adaptable.
A common phrase meaning 'quick-witted' or 'sharp.' Literally 'head rotation is fast.'
She's mentally agile and can answer any question immediately.
Means resourceful or quick-thinking, especially in a tight spot. Emphasizes cleverness.
Describes a mind that is clear, sharp, and alert. Often used in the form 頭が冴えている.
Describing an approach, team, or organization that adapts quickly to change, especially in business or software development.
The loanword 'agile' is widely used in Japanese business and tech contexts, especially for 'Agile development.'
Our team uses agile development.
Means mobile, flexible, or maneuverable. Used for organizations or systems that can respond quickly.
General word for 'flexible.' Often used for attitudes, plans, or thinking. Less specific to movement.
The loanword アジャイル is almost exclusively used in business and software contexts. For physical nimbleness, use 身軽 or 敏捷.
He's agile-minded, so he can handle trouble right away.
My mind is agile this morning, so work is going smoothly.
It's important to build an agile organization.
変化に柔軟に対応する。
Respond flexibly (agilely) to changes.