Translation guide
Describes a girl or woman whose appearance, behavior, or interests are stereotypically associated with boys. In Japanese, this concept is often expressed through specific terms or descriptive phrases, with nuances ranging from positive to neutral to slightly negative.
彼女はボーイッシュだ。
She is tomboyish.
おてんばな女の子
a tomboyish girl
To say that a girl or woman has traits, interests, or a style that is stereotypically masculine or boyish.
A common loanword from English 'boyish', used to describe a girl or woman with a boyish appearance or style. Often positive or neutral, frequently used in fashion contexts.
彼女はボーイッシュな服装が好きだ。
She likes tomboyish clothes.
ボーイッシュな髪型にした。
I got a tomboyish haircut.
Refers to a lively, active girl who enjoys rough play, often used for children. Can be affectionate or slightly critical depending on context.
うちの娘はおてんばで、いつも外で遊んでいる。
My daughter is a tomboy and always plays outside.
小さい頃はおてんばだった。
I was a tomboy when I was little.
Literally 'like a boy'. A straightforward, descriptive phrase. Can be used for appearance or behavior.
あの子は男の子みたいにサッカーをする。
That girl plays soccer like a boy.
彼女は男の子みたいな服を着ている。
She is wearing boyish clothes.
Means 'surpassing men', describing a woman who is stronger, more capable, or more assertive than typical men. Can be positive (strong woman) or negative (unfeminine).
彼女は男勝りな性格で、仕事もバリバリこなす。
She has a tomboyish personality and works very efficiently.
To focus on the character traits of being active, rough, or assertive, rather than just appearance.
Means 'active, lively, energetic'. Often used to describe tomboyish girls in a positive light, emphasizing their energy.
彼女は活発で、スポーツが得意だ。
She is active and good at sports.
Describes a mischievous, naughty, or unruly child. Often used for boys, but can apply to tomboyish girls who are playful and a bit wild.
Describes a personality that is frank, straightforward, and unpretentious, often associated with tomboyish women who are not overly feminine or fussy.
ボーイッシュ is often about fashion and appearance, while おてんば is about behavior and personality, especially in children. ボーイッシュ can be used for adults, but おてんば is usually for young girls.
大人の女性に「おてんば」はあまり使わない。
We don't often use 'otemba' for adult women.
There is no single exact equivalent for 'tomboy' as a noun. Use descriptive phrases or the adjectives above. Saying トムボーイ is not common and may not be understood.
That kid is mischievous and often climbs trees.
彼女はさばさばしていて、男の友達が多い。
She is frank and has many male friends.