Translation guide
The English word 'restless' describes a state of being unable to rest, relax, or stay still, often due to anxiety, boredom, or excess energy. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for physical restlessness, mental unease, and situational impatience.
He seems restless, fidgeting the whole time.
An onomatopoeic word describing fidgety, restless behavior, often from nervousness or excitement. Commonly used with する.
He was restless before the interview.
Describes squirming or fidgeting, often from embarrassment, shyness, or hesitation. More about small, uncomfortable movements.
The child was restless in his seat out of boredom.
Literally 'can't stay still'. A direct and clear way to express physical restlessness.
I was restless during the long flight.
Describing a restless mind that can't relax due to worry, stress, or anticipation.
Means 'the mind cannot rest'. Used when you are constantly worried or stressed and can't find peace of mind.
I can't stop thinking about work; I feel restless.
Similar to 落ち着かない but explicitly refers to the heart/mind. Emphasizes emotional unrest.
Means 'anxious' or 'uneasy'. Often used when restlessness stems from a specific worry.
Describing a restless desire to move, act, or experience something new, often from boredom or ambition.
Also used for a restless urge to do something, not just physical inability to stay still.
I'm restless to start something new.
An onomatopoeic verb meaning to itch or be eager to do something. Implies a strong, almost physical urge to act.
I'm restless to go on a trip.
Means 'bored'. Restlessness from boredom is often expressed with 退屈で落ち着かない or similar.
Describing a night or sleep that is disturbed, not restful.
A common phrase for a restless night, often due to heat, worry, or discomfort.
I had a restless night because of the heat.
Literally 'a night one cannot sleep'. Directly expresses a sleepless, restless night.
Means 'shallow sleep'. Describes sleep that is easily disturbed, leading to restlessness.
そわそわ is used for restless movements from excitement or nervousness, like pacing or fidgeting with hands. もじもじ is for small, hesitant movements from embarrassment or shyness, like squirming in a seat.
He's restless before the date (excited/nervous).
She's fidgeting because she's embarrassed to speak in public.
The direct translation '休まらない' is not commonly used alone. Instead, use phrases like 落ち着かない or 気が休まらない depending on context.
The audience grew restless during the long speech.
She felt restless and couldn't focus on her book.
After a restless night, he was tired all day.
While waiting for the exam results, I felt restless.
He is restless about the future and can't sleep at night.
I'm restless and want some excitement.
I had restless nights due to worries.
I had a restless sleep and woke up many times.