Translation guide
The English word 'indulgent' covers several related ideas: being overly generous or lenient, giving in to desires (one's own or others'), and being tolerant or forgiving. This guide breaks down these meanings and shows how to express them naturally in Japanese.
Describing someone who is too kind, permissive, or spoils others, especially children or subordinates.
Literally 'sweet', but commonly used to mean 'indulgent', 'soft', or 'lenient'. Often used in phrases like 甘い親 (indulgent parent) or 甘い判断 (lenient judgment).
彼は子供に甘すぎる。
He is too indulgent with his children.
あの先生は生徒に甘い。
That teacher is indulgent toward the students.
A verb meaning 'to spoil' or 'to pamper', often with a negative connotation of overindulgence. Used for parents, pets, etc.
祖父母は孫を甘やかしがちだ。
Grandparents tend to be indulgent with their grandchildren.
Means 'generous', 'tolerant', or 'magnanimous'. Can be used for an indulgent attitude that is forgiving rather than spoiling.
彼は部下の失敗に寛大だ。
He is indulgent toward his subordinates' mistakes.
A phrase meaning 'to overlook' or 'to be lenient about'. Implies indulgent tolerance of faults or rule-breaking.
遅刻は大目に見てもらえない。
They won't be indulgent about lateness.
Describing a person who indulges themselves, often in pleasures like food, drink, or leisure.
Also used for self-indulgence, as in 自分に甘い (indulgent to oneself).
彼女は自分に甘い。
She is indulgent with herself.
Literally 'to spoil oneself'. Used when someone indulges in luxuries or avoids discipline.
たまには自分を甘やかしてもいい。
It's okay to be indulgent with yourself once in a while.
Means 'self-indulgent' or 'dissolute', implying lack of restraint. Stronger and more negative.
放縦な生活を送る。
Lead a self-indulgent life.
Describing an experience or item that feels luxurious and treats you well.
Means 'luxurious' or 'extravagant'. Often used for indulgent experiences like a fancy meal or spa day.
贅沢なスパで過ごす週末。
A weekend at an indulgent spa.
Literally 'a reward for oneself'. Commonly used for indulgent treats or purchases.
これは自分へのご褒美です。
This is an indulgent treat for myself.
Describing a facial expression that shows amused tolerance or affection.
Literally 'to look with lukewarm eyes', meaning to watch with indulgent, slightly condescending amusement.
彼は私の失敗を生温かい目で見ていた。
He watched my mistake with an indulgent smile.
Means 'heartwarming' or 'bringing an indulgent smile', often used for cute or innocent behavior.
子供のけんかは微笑ましい。
Children's quarrels are indulgent (make you smile).
The word 甘い primarily means 'sweet' (taste). When used for people or attitudes, it means 'indulgent' or 'lenient'. Context is key.
甘い often implies weakness or spoiling, while 寛大な suggests generous tolerance from a position of strength. 甘い can be negative, 寛大な is usually positive.
彼は甘い父親だ。
He is an indulgent father.
彼女は生温かい微笑みを浮かべた。
She gave an indulgent smile.