Translation guide
Describes behavior that is sexually unrestrained, promiscuous, or disregarding of social norms. The Japanese options range from formal terms for debauchery to casual expressions for being a playboy or loose.
To describe a person or behavior that is sexually immoral, lacking restraint, or indulging in excessive sexual activity.
The most common and direct translation for 'licentious' in the sense of lewd or indecent behavior. Often used to describe actions, thoughts, or speech.
To describe a man who has many casual sexual partners, often in a disapproving way.
To describe a woman who is sexually unrestrained, often with a negative judgment.
Direct translations like '放埒な' (houratsu na) exist but are extremely rare and literary. Stick to the options above for natural Japanese.
Japanese has many gender-specific terms for licentiousness. '女たらし' is for men, '尻軽' for women. Using the wrong one can sound odd or offensive.
He indulged in licentious acts.
That novel contains many licentious descriptions.
Refers to a lecherous or lustful disposition. Often used to describe a person's character rather than a single act.
He is known as a licentious old man.
Implies debauchery and self-indulgent, dissolute living, often including sexual excess. Stronger than just 'licentious' and can cover drinking and gambling as well.
To indulge in every kind of licentiousness.
Literally 'disorderly pulse', it can describe licentious or promiscuous sexual conduct, but is less common and somewhat literary.
His licentious sex life became a problem.
A common, slightly derogatory term for a womanizer or playboy. Implies a pattern of seducing women.
He's notorious for being a licentious womanizer.
Literally 'play person', it means a playboy or someone who lives for pleasure, often including sexual adventures.
He's a licentious playboy, dating multiple women.
Literally 'sex demon', a strong term for a lecherous man or sex fiend. More extreme than 'licentious'.
That guy is a licentious sex fiend.
A derogatory term for a promiscuous woman, similar to 'slutty' or 'loose'. Use with caution.
This is a strong, offensive term. Use only in very informal contexts or when translating harsh language.
There's a rumor that she's licentious.
Means a person who cheats or is unfaithful. Can be used for either gender, but often implies a licentious nature.
She's licentious, so I can't trust her.
A strong, clinical or derogatory term for nymphomania or extreme sexual depravity. Rare in everyday speech.
Her licentious behavior stands out.