Translation guide
The English word 'curious' covers two main meanings: (1) wanting to know or learn something, and (2) strange or unusual. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
I'm curious about Japan.
That's a curious custom.
Expressing a desire to find out about something, to learn, or to understand.
Describes a person who is full of curiosity, always eager to learn or explore. Often used as a positive trait.
He is a curious child.
Shows that someone wants to know something, often used for people who ask many questions. Can sound slightly childish or nosy depending on context.
She is curious about everything.
Literally 'to have interest'. Use when you are curious about a specific topic or thing. More neutral than 知りたがる.
I'm curious about Japanese history.
Means something is on your mind, you are curious or concerned about it. Often used for minor worries or things that catch your attention.
I'm curious about that shop.
Describes someone with an unusual or eccentric curiosity, often about trivial or strange things. Can be slightly negative or teasing.
He's a curious fellow, always collecting odd things.
Describing something that is odd, peculiar, or unexpected.
The most direct equivalent for 'curious' meaning strange. Used for things, situations, or behavior that seem odd.
That's a curious story.
Mysterious, wondrous, or strange in a way that arouses curiosity. Often has a positive or neutral nuance.
Common word for 'strange' or 'weird'. More casual than 奇妙. Can be used for people, things, or situations.
Means 'rare' or 'unusual'. Use when something is curious because it is not commonly seen.
好奇心旺盛 (curiosity-driven) only applies to the 'eager to learn' meaning. Using it to mean 'strange' will cause confusion.
A curious sound. (incorrect)
気になる implies a more passive, nagging curiosity or concern, while 興味がある is a clear, active interest. Use 気になる for things that catch your attention without deliberate focus.
I'm curious about his behavior (it bothers/concerns me).
I'm curious about his research (I'm interested).
不思議な出来事だった。
It was a curious incident.
There's a curious sound.
I saw a curious animal.