Translation guide
The English phrase 'little devil' can refer to a mischievous child, a playful or slightly naughty person, or a supernatural imp. In Japanese, the translation depends heavily on context: whether you're scolding a child affectionately, describing a cheeky friend, or talking about a mythical creature.
To refer to a child who is naughty but in a cute or exasperating way, similar to 'little rascal' or 'little monster'.
A common, affectionate term for a mischievous child. Literally 'prankster child'. Suitable for both boys and girls.
うちのいたずらっ子がまたクッキーを全部食べちゃった。
My little devil ate all the cookies again.
A slightly stronger term for a naughty boy. Often used by adults to scold boys, but can be affectionate depending on tone. Not typically used for girls.
この悪ガキどもが！また窓を割ったな。
You little devils! You broke the window again.
Literally 'little devil'. Can be used for a child, but more often describes a seductive or manipulative woman (see next meaning). For children, it sounds a bit dramatic or literary.
あの子は本当に小悪魔だ。いつもいたずらばかりしている。
That kid is a real little devil. Always up to mischief.
To describe someone, usually a woman, who is charmingly naughty, flirtatious, or manipulative in a cute way.
The standard term for a 'little devil' in the sense of a seductive, playful woman. Often used in fashion and pop culture to describe a cute but dangerous charm.
彼女は小悪魔的な魅力がある。
She has a little devilish charm.
小悪魔メイクが流行っている。
Little devil makeup is trendy.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'mischievous person'. Less specific than 小悪魔 and can apply to anyone with a playful, teasing nature.
彼はいつもいたずらっぽい笑顔を見せる。
He always has a little devilish grin.
To refer to a small demon or devil in folklore, fantasy, or religious contexts.
The direct translation for a small demon. Used in fantasy, games, and mythology.
そのゲームでは小悪魔を召喚できる。
In that game, you can summon a little devil.
Literally 'little oni' (Japanese ogre/demon). Often used for imps or goblins in folklore and games. More traditional Japanese flavor.
小鬼が洞窟に住んでいる。
Little devils live in the cave.
Loanword from English 'imp'. Used in fantasy contexts, especially Western-style games and literature.
インプは小さな悪魔の一種だ。
An imp is a type of little devil.
Calling a child 小悪魔 (koakuma) can sound overly dramatic or even creepy. Stick to いたずらっ子 (itazurakko) or 悪ガキ (warugaki) for natural, affectionate scolding.
小悪魔 (koakuma) specifically means 'little devil' and often carries a cute or playful nuance. 悪魔 (akuma) is the general word for 'devil' or 'demon' and is much more serious and evil-sounding.