Translation guide
The English word "anxious" covers a range of feelings from worry and nervousness to eagerness. In Japanese, different words and expressions are used depending on the nuance. This guide helps learners choose the most natural Japanese expression for each situation.
Expressing a general feeling of worry, unease, or concern about a future event or outcome.
The most common and direct translation for 'anxious' in the sense of worry or unease. It can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
I'm anxious about the exam results.
He feels anxious about the future.
Means 'worried' or 'concerned'. Slightly more casual than 不安, and often used for specific concerns.
I'm anxious about my mother's health.
Expresses a lingering worry or something on one's mind. Slightly more formal or written.
I'm anxious about his safety.
Describes a state of fretting or being impatiently anxious, often while waiting for something.
I'm anxiously waiting for a reply.
Expressing nervousness or butterflies before a performance, interview, or important event.
The standard word for 'nervous' or 'tense'. Used for stage fright, exam nerves, etc.
I always get anxious before interviews.
Onomatopoeic expression for a pounding heart due to nervousness or excitement. Casual.
I was anxious/nervous on my first date.
Describes being restless or fidgety due to nervousness. Often used when waiting.
I was anxious and fidgety while waiting for my turn to present.
Expressing a positive, eager desire to do something, often with a sense of impatience.
Pattern meaning 'can't wait to do something'. Attach to the stem of a verb (masu-form minus ます).
I'm anxious to know the results.
Literally 'filled with the feeling of wanting to do'. More emphatic and slightly formal.
Means 'can't wait'. Often used for positive anticipation.
Expressing anxiety specifically related to social situations or interacting with others.
不安 (fuan) is a general feeling of unease or anxiety, often about something vague or in the future. 心配 (shinpai) is more specific worry or concern, often about a person or concrete situation. 心配 can also be used as a verb (心配する).
English 'anxious' does not mean 'angry'. Do not use 怒っている (okotteiru) or similar words. If you mean 'eager', use the patterns under the 'eager' meaning.
I'm anxious to start the new project.
夏休みが待ちきれない！
I'm so anxious for summer vacation!
Lately I've been so anxious about meeting people that I can't go out.