Translation guide
Expressing an attitude of commanding, arrogant authority. In Japanese, this is conveyed through tone, word choice, and sentence-ending patterns rather than a single adjective.
Describing a person or their manner as haughty and overbearing.
Describing speech or actions that are peremptory and expect immediate obedience.
Literally 'not letting someone say yes or no'; describes a manner that brooks no argument, similar to an imperious command.
彼は有無を言わせない口調で指示を出した。
He gave instructions in an imperious tone that brooked no argument.
Describing a physical expression that conveys commanding authority.
To look down on someone with a commanding, imperious gaze; quite literary.
王は臣下を睥睨した。
The king gave his subjects an imperious look.
English 'imperious' is often used in literary or dramatic contexts. In Japanese, directly translating with a single adjective can sound unnatural. Instead, describe the behavior or use phrases that capture the commanding tone.
横柄 focuses on overbearing attitude in social interactions, while 傲慢 implies a deeper character flaw of arrogance and insolence. For 'imperious', 横柄 is often the closest fit.
A common adjective meaning arrogant or overbearing, often used for someone's attitude or behavior.
彼の横柄な態度には我慢できない。
I can't stand his imperious attitude.
Implies haughtiness and pride, often with a sense of looking down on others.
彼女は高慢ちきな口調で命令した。
She gave orders in an imperious tone.
Conveys an inflated sense of self-importance; often used for pompous or imperious behavior.
彼は尊大に振る舞い、誰の意見も聞かなかった。
He acted imperiously and wouldn't listen to anyone's opinion.
Stronger term for arrogance; can imply insolence along with imperiousness.
傲慢な上司はいつも部下を見下している。
The imperious boss always looks down on his subordinates.
To take a high-handed, imperious attitude; often used when someone acts overbearingly.
交渉の場で高飛車に出るのは逆効果だ。
Taking an imperious stance in negotiations is counterproductive.
Describes a domineering, overbearing attitude, often with a raised voice; somewhat literary.
彼は居丈高に反論を封じた。
He imperiously silenced any objections.