Translation guide
A scamp is a mischievous person, often a child, who gets into minor trouble but is usually seen as likable or amusing. Japanese has several words that capture this idea, ranging from affectionate to mildly critical.
To refer to a child who is playfully naughty but endearing, similar to 'little rascal' or 'little scamp'.
Literally 'mischief child'. A common, warm way to describe a child who is always up to harmless pranks. Often used with affection.
うちのいたずらっ子がまた隠れちゃった。
Our little scamp has hidden again.
'Naughty boy' or 'little rascal'. やんちゃ means mischievous or unruly, and 坊主 is an affectionate term for a boy. Slightly more colloquial and warm.
あのやんちゃ坊主はいつも笑わせてくれる。
That little scamp always makes me laugh.
A somewhat old-fashioned term for a mischievous boy. 腕白 means naughty or rambunctious, and 小僧 is a slightly dated word for 'boy' or 'kid'. Has a nostalgic feel.
近所の腕白小僧たちが公園で遊んでいる。
The little scamps from the neighborhood are playing in the park.
To describe someone (not necessarily a child) who is cunning in a charming or harmless way, like a lovable rogue.
Refers to a person who is shrewd and knows how to get what they want, often in a cheeky but not malicious way. Can be used for adults or children.
彼はちゃっかり者で、いつもいいところを持っていく。
He's a scamp who always manages to get the best part.
Literally 'a guy you can't eat', meaning someone who is sly or hard to read, but often in a roguish, likable way. More casual and can be slightly negative depending on tone.
あいつは食えない奴だけど、憎めないんだよな。
He's a scamp, but you can't help liking him.
To call someone a scamp with a hint of disapproval, implying they are up to no good, though still not a serious criminal.
'Bad kid' or 'brat'. Used for children or teenagers who are genuinely naughty or troublesome. Can be said with exasperation or mild anger.
近所の悪ガキが窓ガラスを割った。
The neighborhood scamps broke the window.
A 'good-for-nothing' or 'ne'er-do-well'. Stronger than 'scamp' and can be used for adults. Implies laziness or dishonesty, but can sometimes be used half-jokingly.
いたずらっ子 is the most neutral and affectionate term for a mischievous child. やんちゃ坊主 is warmer and more colloquial, often used by parents or close adults. 悪ガキ has a negative edge and implies the child is actually causing trouble.
いたずらっ子だけど、本当は優しい子なんだ。
He's a scamp, but he's really a kind kid.
うちのやんちゃ坊主が今日も泥だらけで帰ってきた。
Our little scamp came home covered in mud again today.
あの悪ガキどもに自転車をパンクさせられた。
Those scamps punctured my bicycle tire.
あの悪ガキどもに自転車をパンクさせられた。
Those scamps punctured my bicycle tire.
あのろくでなしがまた金を借りに来た。
That scamp came to borrow money again.