Translation guide
The quality of being rude or lacking good manners. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific words for rudeness, discourtesy, or bad manners, as well as through indirect expressions and contextual behavior.
To describe a person, action, or attitude that is impolite or lacking in courtesy.
The most common and versatile word for impoliteness or rudeness. Can be used for actions, speech, or general attitude. Also used as a set phrase when excusing oneself.
彼の態度は失礼だ。
His attitude is impolite.
失礼なことを言ってしまった。
I said something rude.
A stronger, more formal term for rudeness or insolence. Often implies a deliberate lack of respect.
無礼な振る舞いは許されない。
Rude behavior is not tolerated.
Refers to bad manners or breach of etiquette, often in social situations.
食事中の不作法は避けるべきだ。
You should avoid bad manners during meals.
A literary or formal term for impoliteness or discourtesy. Less common in everyday speech.
非礼を詫びる。
To apologize for one's rudeness.
To describe speech that is too casual or direct, lacking appropriate honorifics or polite forms.
Literally 'bad use of language', often implying impolite or rough speech.
彼は言葉遣いが悪い。
He uses rude language.
Casual speech used inappropriately, e.g., with superiors or strangers. Implies a lack of politeness.
上司にタメ口をきくのは失礼だ。
It's rude to use casual speech with your boss.
Inability to use honorific language, which can be perceived as impoliteness in formal settings.
敬語が使えないと、社会人として失礼にあたる。
If you can't use honorific language, it's considered impolite as a working adult.
To describe a person who is habitually rude or inconsiderate.
Literally 'not knowing manners', used to describe a person who lacks basic courtesy.
彼は本当に礼儀知らずだ。
He really has no manners.
Similar to 不作法, but often used as a noun to describe a person's character as ill-mannered.
無作法な人だ。
He is an ill-mannered person.
The English noun 'impoliteness' is often better expressed in Japanese using adjectives like 失礼な (rude) or phrases like 礼儀がなっていない (lacking manners). Using the noun form 失礼 is common, but in many contexts, describing the behavior or attitude is more natural.
彼の無礼さには驚いた。
I was surprised by his rudeness.
To apologize for being impolite, use 失礼しました (I was rude / Excuse me) or 申し訳ありません (I'm sorry). 失礼 is often used as a set phrase when entering or leaving a room, or when interrupting someone.