Translation guide
Describes a state of being restless, unable to stay still, often due to nervousness, boredom, or impatience. Japanese expressions vary by cause and physical manifestation.
General restlessness, squirming, or constant small movements.
The most common and versatile expression. Literally 'not settled', it covers mental and physical restlessness.
He seemed fidgety in the waiting room.
Onomatopoeic adverb describing visible fidgeting, often from anticipation or nervousness.
He was fidgety before the interview.
Onomatopoeic adverb for squirming or hesitating, often from embarrassment or shyness.
The child was fidgeting after being scolded.
Fidgeting caused by anxiety, stress, or nervous energy.
Also used here; emphasizes visible nervous movements.
She was fidgety while waiting for the exam results.
Onomatopoeic word for irritation or impatience, often with fidgety movements like tapping fingers.
Idiomatic phrase meaning 'unable to keep one's mind at ease', implying anxious restlessness.
Fidgeting due to boredom or waiting, often with repetitive motions.
Literally 'hands with nothing to do', describes the restless feeling of having idle hands.
I was fidgety during the long meeting.
Adverbial phrase meaning 'looking bored', often accompanied by fidgeting.
He was fidgeting with a pen, looking bored.
Specifically playing with or touching objects restlessly.
Verb meaning 'to fiddle with' or 'to touch restlessly'. Combine with object.
He's always fidgeting with his hair.
Kanji form of いじる, same meaning but more written.
Verb meaning 'to touch', can imply fidgeting when used with adverbs like しきりに (frequently).
Restlessness caused by physical unease, like an uncomfortable seat.
そわそわ is outward, visible fidgeting from excitement or nerves. もじもじ is inward, hesitant squirming from embarrassment or shyness.
Before the date, he was fidgety (excited/nervous).
She was fidgety (shy) and couldn't talk to the stranger.
There is no single Japanese adjective that directly translates 'fidgety'. Use the expressions above depending on context. Avoid direct translations like フィジェティ.
渋滞で彼はイライラして足を揺らしていた。
Stuck in traffic, he was fidgety and shaking his leg.
She was fidgety because her child was late coming home.
She was unconsciously fidgeting with her ring.
The child was fidgeting with his ear repeatedly.
硬い椅子でそわそわしてしまった。
I got fidgety on the hard chair.