Translation guide
The English phrase "be restless" describes a state of agitation, inability to relax, or constant movement. In Japanese, the best expression depends on whether the restlessness is physical, mental, or emotional, and whether it's temporary or a personality trait.
Describing someone who fidgets, can't sit quietly, or is constantly moving their body.
Literally 'not settled/calm'. This is the most common and versatile way to say someone is restless, covering both physical and mental unease.
彼は待合室でずっと落ち着かなかった。
He was restless the whole time in the waiting room.
Onomatopoeic word for being fidgety or nervously restless, often due to excitement or anxiety.
面接の前でそわそわしている。
I'm feeling restless before the interview.
Literally 'cannot stay still'. Emphasizes the inability to remain motionless.
子供たちはじっとしていられなかった。
The children couldn't stay still (were restless).
Describing a restless mind, anxiety, or inability to relax mentally.
Literally 'the mind/spirit doesn't rest'. Used when worries or stress keep you from relaxing.
仕事のことが気が休まらない。
I can't stop thinking about work; I feel restless.
Similar to 落ち着かない but explicitly refers to the heart/mind being unsettled.
試験の結果が気になって心が落ち着かない。
I'm restless because I'm worried about the exam results.
Means 'so anxious I can't stand it'. Stronger than just restless, implies intense anxiety.
彼は将来のことで不安でたまらないようだ。
He seems restless with anxiety about the future.
Describing a night where one can't sleep well, tosses and turns.
Literally 'a night hard to sleep'. Commonly used for hot, humid nights or when you're worried.
昨夜は寝苦しい夜だった。
Last night was a restless night.
Simply 'a sleepless night'. More direct than 'restless' but often used in similar contexts.
心配事で眠れない夜を過ごした。
I spent a restless night due to worries.
Describing a person who is always on the go, can't relax, or seeks constant stimulation.
A personality that can't stay still. Used for active, fidgety people.
彼はじっとしていられない性格だ。
He has a restless personality.
Describes someone who is so active they can't rest. Often used for workaholics or hyperactive people.
彼女は活動的で休めないタイプだ。
She's the restless type who can't relax.
落ち着かない is a general state of restlessness, while そわそわ specifically describes fidgety, nervous movements. Use そわそわ when someone is visibly jittery.
彼は落ち着かない様子だった。
He seemed restless (general unease).
彼はそわそわと足を動かしていた。
He was restlessly moving his legs (fidgeting).
Do not directly translate 'restless' as 休まない (doesn't rest) or 静かでない (not quiet). These sound unnatural. Use the phrases above depending on context.