Translation guide
Expressing worry in Japanese involves choosing the right word based on the nuance: general anxiety, concern for others, or specific fears. Common verbs include 心配する (shinpai suru) for general worry, 気にする (ki ni suru) for being bothered by something, and 不安だ (fuan da) for a deeper sense of unease.
Expressing that you are worried about a situation, outcome, or person in a general sense.
The most common and versatile way to say 'be worried'. It can be used for worrying about people, things, or situations. Often used with the particle を or が to mark the thing worried about.
I'm worried about his health.
I'm worried about the exam results.
Means 'to mind' or 'to be bothered by'. It implies a more personal, often ongoing concern. Often used in negative requests (don't worry about it).
Expresses a deeper, more emotional sense of anxiety or unease, often about the future. It's a na-adjective, so it can directly describe a state.
I'm worried about the future.
Means 'to be troubled' or 'to worry' over a problem, often implying deep thought or suffering. It's used for personal dilemmas.
Expressing concern for another person's health, safety, or situation.
Again the default choice. When the object is a person, it clearly means worrying about them.
Expressing that you are currently worried or anxious about something happening now.
The adjective form of 心配する, used to describe the state of being worried. Often used in casual speech.
Reassuring someone or telling them not to be concerned.
The standard casual way to say 'Don't worry'. Can be made polite by adding ください.
心配する is the most general 'worry'. 気にする implies being bothered or preoccupied by something, often used in negative commands. 不安だ expresses a deeper, more emotional anxiety, often about uncertain futures.
He is worried about the exam results (general concern).
He worries about small things.
Please don't worry about it.
彼は不安そうな顔をしている。
He looks worried.
人間関係で悩んでいる。
I'm worried about my relationships.
My mother is always worried about me.
Means 'to be concerned about' or 'to keep in mind'. It's a bit softer and more caring than 心配する, often used for ongoing concern.
He always worries about my health.
He's late, so I'm worried something happened.
An onomatopoeic verb meaning to be fretful or anxious, often while waiting for something. It conveys a sense of restless worry.
I'm worried because I haven't received a reply.
Don't worry, it's okay.
Means 'Don't mind it' or 'Don't let it bother you'. Used when someone is worrying about a minor issue or a mistake.
Don't worry about it, everyone makes mistakes.
He worries about what others think (is bothered by it).
He feels anxious about the future (deep unease).
English uses 'be worried' as a state, but Japanese often uses verbs or adjectives. Don't try to directly translate 'be' + 'worried'. Instead, use 心配する (to worry) or 心配だ (is worrying).