Translation guide
In Japanese, calling someone a coward is often done with words like 臆病者 (okubyōmono) or 弱虫 (yowamushi), but the most natural way to accuse someone of cowardice is using phrases like 臆病だ (okubyō da) or 弱い (yowai). Direct insults can be harsh; context and relationship matter.
Describing or naming someone who is afraid to do something, especially when they should be brave.
The most direct translation for 'coward' as a noun. It's a standard word, not overly harsh but clearly negative.
彼は臆病者だ。
He is a coward.
そんな臆病者とは思わなかった。
I didn't think you were such a coward.
Literally 'weak bug/insect', a common and slightly childish or teasing way to call someone a coward or weakling. Often used among children or in casual scolding.
弱虫！泣くな！
Coward! Don't cry!
Literally 'someone whose hips give out', implying spinelessness. Stronger and more insulting than 臆病者. Often used in anger or contempt.
あんな腰抜けに何ができる。
What can a coward like that do?
Means 'timid person' or 'coward' but with a nuance of being small-minded or overly cautious. Less about bravery in danger, more about social timidity.
彼は小心者で、人前で話せない。
He's a coward and can't speak in public.
Telling someone directly that they are acting like a coward, often in the heat of the moment.
Using the adjective 臆病 (cowardly) with だ is the most straightforward way to say 'You're a coward' or 'That's cowardly'. It's direct but not as insulting as some nouns.
臆病だな、お前は。
You're a coward, aren't you?
そんなことをするなんて臆病だ。
Doing something like that is cowardly.
Literally 'weak', but often used to mean 'cowardly' or 'spineless' in contexts of giving up or not standing up for oneself. Common in phrases like 心が弱い (weak-hearted).
Means 'spineless' or 'gutless'. A common scolding word, stronger than 臆病. Often used as 'You gutless coward!'.
Means 'cowardly and unfair' or 'dirty'. Used when someone uses underhanded tactics or doesn't fight fair. More about dishonorable behavior than fear.
後ろから攻撃するなんて卑怯だ。
Attacking from behind is cowardly.
Describing actions or mindsets that show a lack of courage.
The noun/adjective for 'cowardice' or 'cowardly'. Can describe a person's nature or a specific act.
彼の臆病な行動に失望した。
I was disappointed by his cowardly behavior.
臆病は彼の最大の欠点だ。
Cowardice is his biggest flaw.
Literally 'escape posture', meaning a tendency to run away or avoid challenges. Describes a cowardly attitude.
Means 'timid' or 'faint-hearted', often used in contexts like giving up easily or lacking confidence. Not as strong as 'coward'.
Calling someone 臆病者 or 腰抜け to their face is a strong insult and can damage relationships. In many situations, it's better to describe the behavior (臆病だ) rather than label the person.
そんなことをするのは臆病だと思う。
I think doing that is cowardly.
臆病者 is the standard word for 'coward'. 弱虫 is more childish and teasing, often used for someone who cries easily or is physically weak. 腰抜け is a harsh insult implying spinelessness and is often used in anger.
You're weak (a coward).
心が弱いから、いつも逃げるんだ。
Because you're a coward at heart, you always run away.
意気地なし！戦え！
Coward! Fight!
彼はいつも逃げ腰だ。
He's always ready to run away (he's a coward).
Don't be a coward. / Don't lose heart.