Translation guide
Describes speech that is rapid, often to the point of being difficult to understand, or a person who speaks in a rapid, persuasive, or glib manner. This guide covers how to express 'fast-talking' in Japanese, from neutral descriptions of speed to negative connotations of being slick or pushy.
He is a fast talker.
Noun meaning 'fast speech' or 'rapid talking'. Often used in compounds like 早口言葉 (tongue twister).
I can't keep up with his fast talking.
Verb phrase meaning 'to speak rapidly'. Combines 早口 with 話す.
She always speaks fast.
To describe someone who uses fast speech to deceive, persuade, or avoid giving straight answers, like a con artist or pushy salesperson.
Literally 'mouth is skillful/tasty'. Means 'smooth-talking', 'glib', or 'honey-tongued'. Implies charm and persuasiveness, often with a hint of insincerity.
That salesman is a smooth talker.
Noun/na-adjective meaning 'eloquent' or 'glib'. Often implies a negative nuance of being too talkative or slick.
Combines 'fast speech' with 'rattle on', emphasizing both speed and overwhelming verbosity.
To describe a person known for speaking fast, like an auctioneer or a character in a movie.
Avoid directly translating 'fast-talking' as 速く話す (はやくはなす) when you mean 'smooth-talking' or 'glib'. 速く話す simply means 'speak quickly' and lacks the persuasive/deceptive nuance. Use 口がうまい or 口達者 instead.
Both can mean 'glib', but 口がうまい focuses more on charm and persuasiveness (like a sweet-talker), while 口達者 emphasizes talkativeness and verbal skill, often with a negative edge. 口がうまい is more common in everyday speech.
彼は口達者で、言いくるめられそうになった。
He's so glib, I almost got talked into it.
Verb meaning 'to talk on and on', 'to rattle off', or 'to fire off words rapidly'. Conveys a sense of overwhelming the listener with fast speech.
He rattled on without letting me get a word in.
The con artist fast-talked and confused the victim.
She talks a mile a minute.