Translation guide
Describes a strong, often overt, sexual desire or behavior. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through various adjectives and verbs that convey lewdness, lust, or indecency, with nuances ranging from formal to slang.
He is lascivious. (casual)
Very common casual expression.
To describe someone or something as sexually suggestive, lecherous, or driven by lust.
A standard, somewhat formal adjective meaning 'lecherous' or 'lustful'. Often used to describe a person's character or behavior.
He looked at her with lascivious eyes.
A very common, casual term for 'lewd' or 'perverted'. Can be used playfully or critically. Often used as a noun (スケベ) to mean a lecher.
That old guy is really lascivious.
Means 'indecent', 'lewd', or 'licentious'. Often used for sexual acts or thoughts that are considered immoral or obscene.
Means 'obscene' or 'indecent', often used in legal or formal contexts to describe sexually explicit material or behavior.
Slang for 'erotic' or 'sexy', but can also imply lewdness. Very common in casual speech.
To describe actions that are sexually suggestive or lewd.
A common phrase meaning 'to do something lewd/disgusting'. いやらしい can mean 'lewd', 'suggestive', or 'creepy'.
He did something lascivious and she was disgusted.
Specifically refers to groping or molestation, often on public transportation. A serious, criminal act.
To describe a way of looking that is sexually suggestive or lecherous.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches all nuances of 'lascivious'. Choose based on context: 好色 for literary/formal, スケベ for casual, 猥褻 for legal/obscene, 淫ら for immoral lewdness.
好色 is more formal and often used in writing or to describe a person's nature. スケベ is casual, commonly used in everyday speech, and can be both an adjective and a noun (a lecher). スケベ can sound playful or insulting depending on tone.
He was indulging in lascivious fantasies.
The magazine contained lascivious photographs.
その映画はちょっとエロすぎる。
That movie is a bit too lascivious.
Lascivious acts on the train are a crime.
He looked at me with a lascivious, undressing gaze.