Translation guide
The English word 'scary' describes something that causes fear or is frightening. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 怖い (kowai), but the best choice depends on what is scary and the nuance you want to convey.
That's scary!
Describing something that makes you feel afraid, such as a horror movie, a dark place, or a dangerous situation.
The most common and versatile word for 'scary'. It can describe anything from a mild fear to genuine terror. Used for both physical and psychological fear.
That movie was scary.
A stronger, more literary word than 怖い. It implies a deeper, more profound fear or dread. Often used for serious threats or in written language.
A colloquial, slightly childish or dialectal word for 'scary'. Common in spoken Japanese, especially in the Tokyo area. It has a more casual, immediate feel.
Describing something that is scary in a strange, unnatural, or ghostly way, often involving a sense of discomfort rather than direct danger.
Describing a person, situation, or thing that is scary because it seems powerful, strict, or overwhelming, often in a social context.
Expressing fear about a possible negative result, similar to 'I'm scared that...' or 'It's scary to think that...'
Use this pattern to say you are scared of doing something or that something might happen. Attach to the dictionary form of a verb or adjective.
While 怖い and 恐い are often interchangeable in modern usage, 怖い is the standard for 'scary' (causing fear), and 恐い can sometimes emphasize the feeling of being scared. However, for most learners, sticking with 怖い is safe. The word 怖がる means 'to be scared (of something)' and is used for others, not yourself.
He is scared of dogs.
Walking alone on a dark street is scary.
A terrifying incident occurred.
That dog is scary, isn't it?
This doll is creepy.
The forest at night is eerie.
A more formal or literary term for 'eerie' or 'uncanny'. Often used to describe an atmosphere or something that seems unnatural and frightening.
An eerie silence hung in the air.
The department head is a scary person.
Can be used for someone with a terrifying presence or formidable power, but it's stronger and less common in everyday social situations.
His anger is terrifying.
I'm scared of failing.
I'm scared that he will dislike me.
Used to express 'It's scary to think that...' or 'The thought that... is frightening.'
It's scary to think that global warming might continue like this.
怖い is everyday 'scary'. 恐ろしい is stronger, more literary, and often implies a deeper, more existential fear. Use 怖い for most situations; use 恐ろしい for serious threats, horror, or formal writing.