Translation guide
The English word 'egoistic' describes a self-centered attitude or behavior. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives, nouns, and phrases that convey selfishness, self-importance, or prioritizing one's own desires. The most common and direct equivalent is わがまま, but other terms carry nuances of arrogance, self-conceit, or philosophical egoism.
Describing someone who acts according to their own desires without considering others, often in everyday situations.
The most common and versatile term for selfishness. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective. Often used for children or in personal relationships.
He is selfish.
Don't be selfish.
Literally 'self-convenient'. Emphasizes acting for one's own convenience without regard for others. Slightly stronger and more critical than わがまま.
Please stop your selfish behavior.
A more formal, written term meaning 'self-interested' or 'egoistic'. Often used in ethical or psychological contexts.
Act from egoistic motives.
A direct loanword from English. Used in casual or trendy contexts, but less common than native terms.
I'm fed up with his egoistic attitude.
Describing someone who has an inflated sense of their own importance or abilities, often looking down on others.
Referring to the ethical theory that self-interest is the foundation of morality.
Both mean 'selfish', but わがまま is often used for childish or emotional selfishness (like demanding something), while 自分勝手 emphasizes acting for one's own convenience without considering others, and can sound more accusatory.
a selfish child
a selfish adult (who only thinks of their own convenience)
Directly translating 'egoistic' as エゴイスティック is possible but can sound unnatural or overly trendy. In most contexts, わがまま or 自分勝手 are more natural choices.
Means 'self-centered' or 'egocentric'. Often used in psychology or to describe someone who sees everything from their own perspective.
You should change your egoistic way of thinking.
傲慢な態度をとるな。
Don't take an egoistic, arrogant attitude.
His actions are based on egoism.