Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing timidity involves describing a personality trait, a temporary feeling, or behavior. The most common word is 内気 (uchiki) for a shy, reserved nature. For situational nervousness, 臆病 (okubyō) or phrases like 気が小さい (ki ga chiisai) are used. Direct translations like 'timid' can sound clinical; natural Japanese often uses softer expressions.
Describing someone who is naturally shy, introverted, or hesitant in social situations.
The most common and natural word for a shy, timid personality. It implies a gentle, reserved nature rather than fearfulness.
She is shy and not good at talking to people.
I want to overcome my shy personality.
Specifically refers to shyness around strangers or unfamiliar people. Often used for children or in casual contexts.
My child is very shy around strangers.
Loanword from English 'shy'. Common in casual conversation, especially among younger people.
He's a bit shy, but he's a good guy.
Describing a tendency to be easily frightened or to avoid challenges due to fear.
Means cowardly or timid in the face of risk. Stronger than 内気; implies fearfulness rather than just shyness.
He is timid and afraid of heights.
Literally 'spirit is small'. A common idiomatic phrase meaning timid, easily worried, or lacking boldness.
Means faint-hearted, lacking confidence, or being easily discouraged. Often used in contexts of giving up or hesitating.
Describing a temporary state of nervousness or hesitation, often in performance or social settings.
Means 'to get nervous'. The most common way to express situational timidity or anxiety.
I get nervous when speaking in front of people.
Colloquial verb meaning to be nervous or flustered, especially in performances or presentations. Often used in the form あがってしまう.
Literally 'have no confidence'. Used to explain timidity due to lack of self-assurance.
Describing actions that show timidity, such as hesitating to speak up or holding back.
Means to hold back out of consideration or shyness. Often used when someone is too timid to impose on others.
Don't be shy, please say anything.
Onomatopoeic phrase describing fidgety, hesitant behavior due to shyness or embarrassment.
He is fidgeting and won't start talking.
内気 (uchiki) describes a shy, introverted personality and is generally neutral or even slightly positive. 臆病 (okubyō) implies cowardice or fearfulness and can be negative. Use 内気 for someone who is quiet and reserved, and 臆病 for someone who avoids challenges due to fear.
The English word 'timid' can be translated as 臆病な or 内気な, but these adjectives are less common in casual speech. Instead, use phrases like 緊張する (to get nervous) or 気が小さい (to be faint-hearted) for more natural Japanese.
His timidity prevents him from making friends.
Don't let timidity stop you from trying.
I don't want to be called a coward.
He is timid and always trying to read people's expressions.
Don't be timid. / Don't lose heart.
I got nervous during the speech.
I lack confidence and can't be proactive.