Translation guide
This concept covers speaking impulsively, without prior thought, often leading to unintended consequences. Japanese has several expressions that capture different nuances, from casual blurting out to formal warnings against careless speech.
To say something suddenly without considering the consequences, often revealing true feelings or causing trouble.
Literally 'the mouth slips'. Used when you accidentally say something you shouldn't have, like a secret or an insensitive remark.
I accidentally let his secret slip out.
Means something just comes out of your mouth without thinking. Often used for honest reactions or complaints.
I was so surprised, it just slipped out.
A 'slip of the tongue' or verbal gaffe, often used in formal or public contexts. Can be a noun or used with する.
The minister's gaffe became a problem.
Describes a person who has a 'light mouth' and tends to blurt things out or can't keep secrets. Not an action but a character trait.
He has a loose tongue, so you'd better not tell him secrets.
To speak without thinking about the impact on others, often causing offense or misunderstanding.
Directly means 'to speak without thinking'. A straightforward way to describe the action.
He always speaks without thinking and makes people angry.
To say something lightly or thoughtlessly, often about serious matters. Implies a lack of proper consideration.
To say something insensitive or tactless. Focuses on the hurtful nature of the remark.
To say whatever comes to mind, often bluntly or honestly, without holding back.
Literally 'to say what you think just as it is'. Describes a person who is direct and unfiltered, which can be positive or negative depending on context.
She's the type who says exactly what she thinks.
An idiom meaning 'to not put clothes on one's teeth', i.e., to speak bluntly without softening words. Often used positively for frankness.
To say things bluntly or rudely, often without regard for others' feelings. Has a negative connotation.
To speak too quickly without waiting for full information or proper timing.
To jump to conclusions and say something based on a misunderstanding. '早とちり' means a hasty misjudgment.
I jumped to conclusions and said the wrong thing.
To speak prematurely, getting ahead of the situation. Often used when someone announces something before it's confirmed.
Avoid literal translations like '考えずに話す' (kangaezu ni hanasu) as a standalone phrase; while grammatically correct, it sounds unnatural. Use the idiomatic expressions above for more natural Japanese.
口が滑る (kuchi ga suberu) is a casual, everyday expression for an accidental slip. 失言 (shitsugen) is a formal noun often used in news or official contexts for a serious gaffe. Use 口が滑る for personal mistakes and 失言 for public or professional errors.
Don't thoughtlessly criticize other people's dreams.
I said something insensitive to her.
He gives his opinion without mincing words.
He's a blunt person, but he doesn't mean any harm.
Please don't jump the gun and announce the results.