Translation guide
The concept of rudeness in Japanese is expressed through various words and phrases that describe impolite behavior, lack of manners, or coarseness. The most common and versatile term is 失礼 (shitsurei), but other words carry different nuances, from mild impoliteness to outright vulgarity.
Expressing that someone's behavior or speech is rude, impolite, or lacking in manners.
The most common and versatile word for rudeness. It can be used as a noun or a na-adjective. It covers a wide range of impolite behavior, from minor breaches of etiquette to more serious disrespect.
His attitude is rude.
It's rude to say such a thing.
A more formal and slightly stronger term than 失礼, often implying a deliberate lack of respect or insolence. Commonly used in written or formal contexts.
Rude behavior is not tolerated.
A somewhat old-fashioned or stiff term for rudeness, often used by older generations or in very formal situations. Can also be used as a light apology.
That's a rude way of speaking.
Describing someone as ill-mannered, uncouth, or lacking proper upbringing, often implying a character flaw.
Refers to a lack of manners or etiquette, often in social situations. It suggests clumsiness or ignorance of proper behavior rather than intentional disrespect.
He eats rudely (without manners).
Same as 無作法, but written with different kanji. Both are used interchangeably.
Describes someone as boorish, uncouth, or tactless. Often used for someone who lacks refinement or says inappropriate things.
Expressing that language or behavior is crude, vulgar, or offensive, often with a rough or harsh tone.
Describes someone or their behavior as coarse, crude, or uncultured. It implies a lack of refinement and can be used for both speech and actions.
His language is coarse/rude.
Means vulgar, crude, or indecent. Often used for jokes, language, or behavior that is considered low-class or offensive.
Describes a person as rough, crude, or insensitive. Often used for someone who is careless and lacks delicacy in their actions or words.
Describing behavior that is rude because it is arrogant, insolent, or presumptuous.
Often used for someone who is cheeky, impertinent, or acting above their station. Commonly used for younger people or subordinates who speak out of turn.
Don't talk back to me (don't be cheeky).
Describes an arrogant, haughty attitude. It implies looking down on others and acting superior.
A formal and strong word for insolence or arrogance, often used in serious contexts like politics or business.
Referring to a specific breach of manners or protocol, often in formal or traditional settings.
A formal term for impoliteness or discourtesy, often used in official or ceremonial contexts. It emphasizes the breach of proper conduct.
Apologize for the rudeness (breach of etiquette).
A modern, loanword-based phrase meaning 'breach of etiquette'. Used in everyday contexts like business manners or social rules.
That's a breach of etiquette (rude).
While 失礼 is the most common translation, it is a na-adjective and often used in the form 失礼な (rude) or 失礼だ (is rude). Avoid using it as a direct noun modifier without な.
a rude person
失礼 is the everyday word for rudeness, covering both intentional and unintentional impoliteness. 無礼 is stronger and often implies deliberate disrespect or insolence, and is more common in formal or written language.
To apologize for being rude, you can say 失礼しました (I was rude / Excuse me) or 失礼いたしました (more formal). For a noun, 無礼を詫びる (apologize for rudeness) is used in formal contexts.
不作法な振る舞いは避けるべきだ。
You should avoid rude behavior.
Don't ask such a tactless question.
下品な冗談はやめてください。
Please stop telling vulgar jokes.
He's a rough/rude person, but he means no harm.
彼の横柄な態度に腹が立った。
I was angered by his arrogant/rude attitude.
He was criticized for his insolent remarks.