Translation guide
The concept of impertinence in English covers a range of rude, disrespectful, or overly familiar behavior, especially toward someone of higher status. In Japanese, expressing this depends heavily on context, relationship, and the specific nuance—whether it's cheeky backtalk, intrusive questions, or a general lack of respect. Direct translations are rare; instead, Japanese uses descriptive phrases, adjectives, and set expressions that capture the social violation.
When someone, especially a younger person or subordinate, speaks or behaves in a way that is too bold, rude, or lacking proper respect.
An adjective/noun describing someone (often a child or junior) as cheeky, impudent, or getting too big for their britches. Very common in everyday speech.
That kid is really impertinent.
Don't talk back to me like that. (lit. Don't speak with an impertinent mouth.)
Describes an action or remark as presumptuous, meddlesome, or out of line—often used when someone offers unsolicited advice or interferes. More formal and self-deprecating than 生意気.
I spoke out of turn. (lit. I said something presumptuous.)
A formal, literary term for insolence or arrogance, often used in written criticism or historical contexts. Implies a haughty, disrespectful attitude.
His boss got angry at his insolent attitude.
When someone asks personal questions or acts too familiar, crossing social boundaries.
Means shameless, brazen, or thick-skinned. Used for someone who imposes on others or asks for too much without embarrassment.
It's impertinent to ask such a thing.
Similar to 厚かましい but more colloquial and often implies a persistent, annoying shamelessness. Can be used for someone who keeps pushing boundaries.
Literally 'without reserve', meaning uninhibited or too forward. Often used when someone lacks proper restraint in social situations.
A comment that is off-topic, disrespectful, or not appropriate for the situation.
Describing a person's general disposition as disrespectful or insolent.
A straightforward noun/adjective meaning rudeness, insolence, or impertinence. Can describe a person or behavior.
I can't stand his impertinent attitude.
Means arrogant or haughty. Stronger than 無礼, implying a sense of superiority.
English 'impertinence' covers many nuances. In Japanese, you usually need to pick a word that matches the specific type of rudeness (cheekiness, intrusiveness, insolence). Using a generic word like 無礼 might sound too stiff or vague in casual contexts.
生意気 is for cheeky, smart-alecky behavior, often from a younger person. 厚かましい is for shamelessly imposing on others, like asking personal questions or making unreasonable requests. A child talking back is 生意気; a stranger asking your salary is 厚かましい.
This is a bold request, but could you give me another chance?
There's a limit to how impertinent you can be.
無遠慮な質問で失礼しました。
I apologize for the impertinent question.
Everyone was surprised by his impertinent remark.
傲慢な物言いが鼻につく。
His impertinent way of speaking is irritating.