Translation guide
An idiosyncrasy is a personal habit, mannerism, or characteristic that is peculiar to an individual. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; instead, various words and phrases describe quirks, habits, or unique traits depending on context.
Describing a distinctive personal habit or mannerism, often harmless or endearing.
Common word for a habit or mannerism, often unconscious. Can be neutral or slightly negative depending on context.
彼は話すときに髪を触る癖がある。
He has an idiosyncrasy of touching his hair when he talks.
Literally 'strange habit', used to emphasize the unusual nature of the idiosyncrasy.
彼女には変わった癖がたくさんある。
She has many idiosyncrasies.
Means 'characteristic' or 'trait'. Can be used for idiosyncrasies when they are distinctive features.
彼の話し方の特徴は、語尾を伸ばすことだ。
An idiosyncrasy of his speech is that he draws out the ends of words.
Means 'individuality' or 'personality'. Used when the idiosyncrasy is seen as a positive, unique trait.
彼の服装のセンスは彼の個性の一部だ。
His sense of style is part of his idiosyncrasy.
Referring to a peculiar feature or behavior of an object, machine, or system.
Formal term for 'peculiarity' or 'idiosyncrasy', often used in technical or academic contexts.
このソフトウェアにはいくつかの特異性がある。
This software has some idiosyncrasies.
Also used for objects, meaning a quirk or tendency (e.g., a machine that jams).
General term for 'characteristic', can be used for idiosyncratic features.
Describing an unusual or abnormal reaction to a substance, often in medical contexts.
Medical term for 'idiosyncratic constitution' or 'idiosyncrasy', referring to an unusual sensitivity to drugs or substances.
彼はその薬に対して特異体質を持っている。
He has an idiosyncrasy to that medication.
Means 'idiosyncratic reaction', used in pharmacology or toxicology.
この薬はまれに特異反応を引き起こすことがある。
This drug can sometimes cause idiosyncratic reactions.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'idiosyncrasy'. Translating it directly as イディオシンクラシー is not natural. Choose the appropriate term based on context.
This printer has an idiosyncrasy of jamming paper.
この車の特徴は、エンジン音が独特なことだ。
An idiosyncrasy of this car is its distinctive engine sound.