Translation guide
The English word "impertinent" can mean rude/disrespectful or irrelevant/not pertinent. This guide focuses on the rude/disrespectful sense, which is more common in modern usage, and briefly covers the less common irrelevant sense.
Describing someone or their behavior as showing a lack of respect, especially by being too bold or forward, often to a superior or elder.
The most common and natural way to describe someone (often younger) as impertinent, cheeky, or cocky. It implies they are acting above their station.
That kid is really impertinent.
Don't talk back to me like that. (lit. Don't speak impertinently.)
Means rude or disrespectful. It is a broader term than 生意気 and can be used in more formal contexts. Often used to apologize for being impertinent.
This may be an impertinent question, but how old are you?
His attitude was impertinent.
Means impolite or impertinent, often with a nuance of being insolent. Slightly more formal and stronger than 失礼.
Such impertinent behavior is unacceptable.
Means shameless, impudent, or impertinent in a pushy, thick-skinned way. Often used when someone takes liberties.
This is an impertinent request, but could you give me a ride to the station?
Similar to 図々しい, meaning brazen or impertinent. Often used for someone who is overly familiar or makes unreasonable requests.
I know it's impertinent of me, but could I have another chance?
Describing a remark or detail that is not relevant to the matter at hand. This sense is less common in modern English.
Means unrelated or irrelevant. The most straightforward way to express that something is not pertinent.
That remark is impertinent to the issue.
Means off the point, irrelevant, or impertinent. Often used when a comment misses the mark.
生意気 is typically used for children or subordinates. Using it for a superior or in a formal situation can sound even more impertinent. Use 失礼 or 無礼 instead.
失礼 is the most common word for 'rude' and can be used in everyday apologies. 無礼 is stronger and more formal, often implying insolence or contempt.
His opinion was impertinent (irrelevant).
Means off the mark, irrelevant, or impertinent. Similar to 的外れ but slightly more formal.
That question is impertinent (irrelevant).