Translation guide
The concept of acting without thinking about the dangers or consequences. In Japanese, this is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and verbs that convey rashness, thoughtlessness, or disregard for risk.
Describing a person or action that is careless, impulsive, or lacking caution.
The most common and direct translation for 'recklessness'. It implies a lack of planning or consideration of danger, often used for actions or plans.
His reckless driving caused the accident.
Stop making reckless plans.
Describes a person who acts without thinking about the future or consequences; often used for daredevil behavior. Slightly more colloquial than 無謀.
He is a reckless young man.
Similar to 向こう見ず, implying thoughtless, rash behavior. Often used for someone who charges ahead without caution.
Reckless behavior is dangerous.
Focusing on the lack of consideration or attention, rather than active risk-taking.
Means 'rash' or 'thoughtless', emphasizing a lack of careful consideration. Often used for remarks or decisions.
I made him angry with my thoughtless remark.
Literally 'carelessness' or 'inattention'. It can imply recklessness when the lack of care leads to danger.
Describing bravery that borders on foolishness, often with a nuance of admiration or criticism.
無謀 emphasizes a lack of planning or consideration of danger, often for actions or plans. 軽率 focuses on thoughtlessness or rashness, especially in speech or decisions. Use 無謀 for physical recklessness and 軽率 for verbal or judgmental recklessness.
English 'recklessness' is often translated as 無謀, but in some contexts, other words like 軽率 or 不注意 may be more appropriate. Avoid directly translating 'reckless' as 無謀 in every case; consider the nuance of thoughtlessness vs. risk-taking.
You should avoid rash judgments.
彼の不注意が事故の原因だ。
His carelessness is the cause of the accident.
A four-character idiom meaning 'rushing headlong', like a wild boar. Describes reckless forward momentum without regard for obstacles.
His headstrong recklessness led to failure.