Translation guide
The English word 'obedient' describes someone who follows rules, orders, or instructions without resistance. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 素直 (sunao), which implies a positive, willing obedience often associated with being honest and open-minded. Other terms like 従順 (juujun) and 大人しい (otonashii) carry different nuances, from submissive compliance to quiet, well-behaved demeanor. This guide helps you choose the right word based on context and connotation.
Describing a person, especially a child or student, who is cooperative, receptive, and does what they are told without arguing, often seen as a virtue.
The most common and versatile word for 'obedient' in a positive sense. It implies being honest, open-minded, and willing to listen. Often used for children, students, or anyone who accepts advice gracefully.
彼女は素直な子供だ。
She is an obedient child.
素直に謝りなさい。
Apologize obediently (without resistance).
Often used for children or pets, meaning well-behaved and obedient. Carries a slightly affectionate tone, like 'good boy/girl'.
お利口に待っていてね。
Wait here like a good boy/girl.
Literally 'good at listening and understanding', used for children who are reasonable and obedient. Emphasizes the ability to understand and comply.
うちの子は聞き分けがいい。
My child is obedient (listens well).
Describing someone who obeys orders without question, often in hierarchical relationships like master-servant, boss-employee, or in military contexts. May imply lack of independence.
Means obedient in a submissive, compliant way. Often used for animals, servants, or people who follow orders without resistance. Can be neutral or slightly negative if it implies blind obedience.
彼は上司に従順だ。
He is obedient to his boss.
犬は飼い主に従順であるべきだ。
A dog should be obedient to its owner.
Adjectival form of 'obedience/submission'. Stronger nuance of yielding to authority. Often used in formal or psychological contexts.
彼の服従的な態度が気に入らない。
I don't like his obedient (subservient) attitude.
Same as 従順 but explicitly adjectival. Used to modify nouns.
従順な部下
an obedient subordinate
Describing a person or animal that is gentle, not causing trouble, and easy to manage. Focuses on calm demeanor rather than active obedience.
Means quiet, gentle, and well-behaved. Often used for children, pets, or people who are not aggressive. Implies obedience through a mild nature.
この犬はとても大人しい。
This dog is very obedient (docile).
彼は大人しい性格だ。
He has an obedient (quiet) personality.
Hiragana version of 大人しい, commonly used in casual writing.
Describing a citizen or group that obeys laws, regulations, or social norms.
Literally 'to obey the law'. This is the most natural way to express law-abiding behavior.
彼は法律を守る市民だ。
He is a law-abiding citizen.
Means 'to follow rules'. Used in schools, workplaces, etc.
生徒は規則を守らなければならない。
Students must be obedient to the rules.
Following divine will or religious teachings with devotion.
素直 (sunao) is the most common and positive, implying a willing, open-hearted obedience. 従順 (juujun) is more about compliance to authority, and can sound subservient. 大人しい (otonashii) describes a quiet, gentle nature rather than active obedience. Choose based on whether you want to emphasize willingness, submission, or demeanor.
Calling a child 従順な (juujun na) can sound overly strict or like they are being trained like an animal. Use 素直な (sunao na) or 聞き分けがいい (kikiwake ga ii) for a positive, natural description.
彼女は素直な生徒です。
She is an obedient student.
その犬はとても従順だ。
The dog is very obedient.
親に素直になりなさい。
Be obedient to your parents.
おとなしい子猫
a docile kitten