Translation guide
The feeling of being shy, self-conscious, or awkward in social situations. In Japanese, this is most commonly expressed with 恥ずかしがり屋 or 内気, but the specific nuance depends on whether it's a personality trait or a temporary feeling.
Describing someone who is habitually shy or bashful
A noun describing a person who is easily embarrassed or shy. This is the most direct equivalent for 'bashfulness' as a character trait.
彼は恥ずかしがり屋だから、人前で話すのが苦手だ。
He's bashful, so he's not good at speaking in public.
Refers to a shy, reserved, or introverted nature. It emphasizes quietness and reluctance to engage socially.
内気な性格のため、新しい友達を作るのに時間がかかる。
Because of her bashful personality, it takes time for her to make new friends.
Specifically means shyness around strangers or unfamiliar people. Often used for children or people who are wary of new faces.
うちの子は人見知りが激しくて、知らない人に会うと泣いてしまう。
My child is very bashful around strangers and cries when meeting new people.
Loanword from English 'shy'. Used in casual contexts, often with a slightly modern or fashionable nuance.
彼女はちょっとシャイだけど、慣れるとよくしゃべる。
She's a bit shy, but once she gets used to you, she talks a lot.
Expressing a momentary sense of embarrassment or self-consciousness
An i-adjective meaning 'embarrassed', 'ashamed', or 'shy' in the moment. Use this for a temporary feeling of bashfulness.
人前で褒められて、恥ずかしかった。
I felt bashful when I was praised in front of everyone.
A verb meaning to feel shy or awkward, often in a pleased or flattered way. It implies a bashful smile or reaction.
An expression meaning to feel awkward or embarrassed, often due to a social faux pas or an uncomfortable situation.
遅刻して教室に入るのは、きまりが悪かった。
I felt bashful walking into the classroom late.
Describing actions or looks that show bashfulness
A verb describing a bashful smile or shy demeanor, often with a sense of innocent charm.
彼女ははにかみながら、プレゼントを受け取った。
She bashfully accepted the gift with a shy smile.
An onomatopoeic verb describing fidgeting or hesitating due to shyness or nervousness.
彼はもじもじしていて、なかなか話し出せなかった。
He was so bashful that he couldn't start speaking, just fidgeting.
恥ずかしがり屋 focuses on being easily embarrassed; 内気 emphasizes a quiet, introverted nature; 人見知り specifically means shyness around strangers. Choose based on the aspect of bashfulness you want to highlight.
彼は恥ずかしがり屋だが、友達といるときは明るい。
He's bashful, but he's cheerful when with friends.
彼女は内気で、パーティーではいつも隅にいる。
She's shy and always stays in the corner at parties.
子供の頃は人見知りが強かった。
I was very bashful around strangers as a child.
English 'bashfulness' is lighter than 'shame'. In Japanese, 恥ずかしい can mean both, but for serious shame use 恥 (はじ) or 羞恥心 (しゅうちしん). For bashfulness, stick with the options above.
子供の頃は人見知りが強かった。
I was very bashful around strangers as a child.
English 'bashfulness' is lighter than 'shame'. In Japanese, 恥ずかしい can mean both, but for serious shame use 恥 (はじ) or 羞恥心 (しゅうちしん). For bashfulness, stick with the options above.
He told me I was cute, and I got all bashful.