Translation guide
This English phrase means to do what you want, often despite others' wishes. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; instead, various expressions convey the idea of acting selfishly, getting one's way, or doing as one pleases.
Expressing that someone acts according to their own desires, often ignoring others.
Literally 'to say selfish things', this is the most common way to say someone is being selfish or demanding their own way. It can be used for both children and adults.
He always has his own way.
Focusing on the outcome of having one's desires fulfilled, often after negotiation or persistence.
Means 'to go as one wishes' or 'to turn out as one wants'. Used when things happen according to one's plan.
There is no direct Japanese verb phrase that corresponds to 'have one's own way'. Translating it word-for-word will result in unnatural Japanese. Instead, use the expressions above depending on the nuance.
Both mean selfish, but わがまま is often used for childish or emotional selfishness, while 自分勝手 (じぶんかって) implies a more calculated, self-centered attitude. For 'have one's own way', わがまま is more common.
He is a self-centered person.
そんなにわがままを言わないで。
Don't be so selfish (don't insist on having your own way).
Means 'to do things exactly as one wishes'. It emphasizes getting one's way in a situation.
He has his own way in everything.
Implies doing whatever one likes, often with a nuance of disregarding rules or others' opinions. Slightly more negative than わがまま.
She is having her own way (acting as she pleases).
A noun or na-adjective meaning 'selfishness' or 'willfulness'. Can be used to describe a person or behavior.
That child really has his own way (is very selfish).
Literally 'to push through one's will', this is a more stubborn, determined way of having one's own way, often against opposition.
He had his own way to the very end.
This time he had his own way.
Means 'to do as one is told' or 'to be at someone's beck and call'. Often used when someone else is having their way with you.
He lets his wife have her own way.
Means 'to push through' one's opinion or desire, often forcefully. Implies overcoming resistance.
He had his own way (pushed through his opinion).