Translation guide
The English word 'imp' refers to a small, mischievous supernatural creature. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various mythical beings, each with distinct cultural nuances.
A small, often playful or troublesome supernatural creature from folklore.
Literally 'small oni', this is the most direct translation for a generic imp-like creature. It conveys a small demon or ogre, often mischievous.
小鬼がいたずらをしている。
The imp is playing pranks.
Means 'little devil'. Often used for a mischievous or slightly evil small creature, but can also describe a seductive or cheeky person.
その子は小悪魔のような笑みを浮かべた。
That child gave an impish grin.
A broad term for Japanese folkloric monsters and spirits. Not all yōkai are imps, but many small, mischievous ones fit the description.
森には小さな妖怪が住んでいる。
A small imp lives in the forest.
A playful or naughty child, likened to an imp.
Means 'mischievous child'. A common, affectionate way to describe a child who is playfully naughty.
うちのいたずらっ子がまた何かやらかした。
Our little imp has done something again.
Refers to a naughty or rambunctious boy. 'Yancha' implies mischievousness, and 'bōzu' is a colloquial term for a boy.
Named creatures from Japanese folklore that resemble imps.
A water imp or sprite with a dish on its head. Known for mischief and sometimes drowning people, but also polite and fond of cucumbers.
河童は川に住む小鬼のような存在だ。
The kappa is an imp-like being that lives in rivers.
A perverse, contrarian imp from folklore. Often depicted as a small demon that does the opposite of what is expected.
Calling a child '小鬼' (kooni) directly might sound harsh or like you're calling them a demon. Use 'いたずらっ子' (itazurakko) or 'やんちゃ坊主' (yanchabōzu) for a playful tone.
'小鬼' (kooni) is more folkloric and ogre-like, while '小悪魔' (koakuma) has a slightly more modern, devilish nuance and can be used for seductive or cheeky people.
近所のやんちゃ坊主たちが庭で遊んでいる。
The little imps from the neighborhood are playing in the yard.
天邪鬼はいつも人に逆らう小鬼だ。
The amanojaku is an imp that always goes against people.