Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing romantic or playful interest is often indirect. Direct translations of 'flirting' exist but are less common than describing the action or using specific behaviors. The most natural approach depends on context: playful teasing, subtle compliments, or non-verbal cues.
Light, fun interaction showing romantic interest, often through jokes or compliments.
The most direct verb for 'to flirt' or 'to woo', often used for actively pursuing someone romantically with words. Can sound a bit strong or old-fashioned.
彼は彼女を口説いている。
He is flirting with her.
Describes playful, physical flirting like touching, teasing, or being lovey-dovey. Often used for couples or people showing affection in public.
カップルがいちゃついている。
The couple is flirting (being lovey-dovey).
Literally 'to reach out a hand', meaning to make a pass at someone or flirt playfully, often with a nuance of teasing or meddling.
彼はよく女の子にちょっかいを出す。
He often flirts with girls.
Refers to hitting on someone, usually in public like on the street. Often has a negative connotation of being a pickup artist.
ナンパする男が多い。
There are many guys who hit on women.
Showing interest through indirect means like compliments, attention, or body language.
Instead of a single word, flirting is often expressed through actions like complimenting appearance or playfully teasing. Common phrases include かわいいね (you're cute) or 面白いね (you're funny).
「かわいいね」と言って、ちょっとからかった。
He flirted by saying 'you're cute' and teasing a little.
Literally 'to show signs of having feelings', a descriptive way to say someone is showing romantic interest without being direct.
彼女は彼に気があるそぶりを見せている。
She is showing signs of being interested in him (flirting).
Light, joking interaction that may look like flirting but isn't meant seriously.
Means to tease or make fun of playfully. Often used for friendly banter that could be mistaken for flirting.
彼はいつも私をからかう。
He always teases me (in a flirty way).
To exchange jokes; can describe a flirty, lighthearted conversation.
二人は冗談を言い合って楽しそうだった。
The two were exchanging jokes and seemed to be having fun (flirting).
The English word 'flirting' covers a wide range of behaviors. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent. Using 口説く can sound too aggressive, while いちゃつく implies physical intimacy. Often it's better to describe the specific action.
彼は彼女に優しく話しかけた。
He talked to her kindly (as a way of flirting).
口説く is verbal wooing, often with romantic intent. いちゃつく is physical, playful affection, usually between people already close. ナンパ is picking up strangers, often seen negatively.