Translation guide
How to express 'informal' in Japanese, covering casual speech, unofficial situations, and relaxed settings.
Describing language, wording, or a way of speaking that is relaxed, not formal or polite.
A common loanword meaning casual or informal, often used for clothing, events, or language style.
This expression might be too informal.
Means 'broken down' or 'friendly', used for informal speech or writing. Often modifies 言い方 (way of speaking) or 表現 (expression).
When talking with friends, I use informal language.
Loanword from English, used in contexts like 'informal meeting' or 'informal style', but less common than カジュアル for everyday speech.
In informal settings, polite language is not necessary.
Same as くだけた but written with kanji; slightly more literary or emphatic.
Informal expressions are inappropriate for business emails.
Slang for casual speech without honorifics, often used among close friends or equals. Can sound rough if used inappropriately.
Using casual speech with a senior is rude.
Describing an event, meeting, or dress code that is relaxed, not official or ceremonial.
Widely used for dress codes (カジュアルな服装) or informal gatherings.
Please come in casual attire for today's party.
Means 'informal' or 'simplified style', often used for ceremonies or procedures. More formal than カジュアル.
Literally 'unofficial', used for meetings, visits, or announcements that are not formal or official.
Describes an atmosphere that is relaxed and friendly, where people feel at ease. Often used for parties or conversations.
Referring to documents, agreements, or procedures that are not legally binding or official.
カジュアル is the most versatile and common for 'informal' in everyday contexts (clothes, language, events). くだけた specifically describes language or behavior that is friendly and unpretentious. インフォーマル is a direct loanword but sounds slightly more formal or technical, often used in business or academic settings.
casual clothes
informal way of speaking
informal meeting
非公式 means 'unofficial' and is not used to describe casual language. Use カジュアル or くだけた for speech styles.
略式の結婚式を挙げました。
We had an informal wedding ceremony.
We exchanged opinions at an informal gathering.
We talked happily in an informal atmosphere.
略式手続きで処理されました。
It was handled through an informal procedure.