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).
He is too indulgent with his children.
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.
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.
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.
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).
She is indulgent with herself.
Literally 'to spoil oneself'. Used when someone indulges in luxuries or avoids discipline.
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.
Lead a self-indulgent life.
Describing an experience or item that feels luxurious and treats you well.
Describing a facial expression that shows amused tolerance or affection.
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.
He is an indulgent father.
She gave an indulgent smile.
Means 'heartwarming' or 'bringing an indulgent smile', often used for cute or innocent behavior.
Children's quarrels are indulgent (make you smile).