Translation guide
Describes a man whose appearance, mannerisms, or behavior are considered feminine. Japanese expressions range from neutral descriptions to slang and derogatory terms. The most common and neutral way is to describe the behavior or appearance rather than using a direct label.
He is a somewhat effeminate man.
Literally 'feminine man'. Slightly more formal than 女っぽい.
He is a feminine man and often cooks.
Casual terms used in everyday conversation, often among friends. Can be neutral or slightly teasing depending on context.
Slang term for an effeminate man, often used for flamboyant gay men or cross-dressers. Can be affectionate or derogatory depending on context. Commonly used in media.
That effeminate guy is really funny.
Slang for an effeminate man or a gay man. Often considered derogatory, but sometimes reclaimed within the LGBTQ+ community. Use with caution.
Can be offensive; avoid using unless you are sure of the context.
Strongly negative terms that are insulting. Generally not recommended for learners to use.
Literally 'womanly man'. Implies weakness and lack of masculinity. Derogatory.
This is an insult and should be avoided in polite conversation.
He was called an effeminate man (in a derogatory way).
Used in clinical or academic contexts to describe gender non-conforming behavior.
Means 'feminization'. Used in medical contexts, e.g., for hormone therapy effects. Not a direct label for a person.
Symptoms of feminization syndrome are observed.
Directly calling someone an 'effeminate man' in Japanese can be rude. It's often better to describe specific traits (e.g., '彼は話し方が柔らかい' - He has a soft way of speaking) rather than using a label.
オネエ is often used in entertainment (e.g., TV personalities) and can be neutral or positive. オカマ is more likely to be taken as an insult, though some individuals use it for themselves.
彼はオカマっぽい話し方をする。
He has an effeminate way of speaking.