Translation guide
Describes something that is unattractive in a conventional sense but has an endearing, charming quality. Often used for animals, characters, or objects with a quirky appeal.
To describe something that is not conventionally attractive but is lovable or charming in its own way.
A direct and common way to say 'ugly but cute'. 'ブサイク' is a casual term for 'ugly', and 'かわいい' means 'cute'. The structure 'AだけどB' means 'A but B'.
この犬はブサイクだけどかわいいね。
This dog is ugly but cute, isn't it?
A slightly more formal or literary version. '不細工' is the kanji form of 'ブサイク', and '愛らしい' means 'lovable' or 'charming'.
そのぬいぐるみは不細工だけど愛らしい。
That stuffed animal is ugly but charming.
A popular slang blend of 'ブサイク' (ugly) and 'かわいい' (cute). Often used for pets, mascots, or celebrities with unconventional looks that are still appealing.
この猫、ブサかわいいよね。
This cat is ugly-cute, right?
A euphemistic way to say 'looks are... well, you know, but it's cute'. 'アレ' (that) is used to avoid directly saying 'ugly', making it softer.
あのキャラ、見た目はアレだけどかわいいよね。
That character looks a bit... you know, but is cute, right?
To describe an animal that is not classically beautiful but has an adorable, endearing quality.
Literally 'its ugly face is cute'. Commonly used for dogs or cats with squished faces or unusual features.
パグってブサイクな顔がかわいいよね。
Pugs have ugly faces that are cute, don't they?
Means 'clumsy/ungainly but you can't hate it'. '憎めない' implies an endearing quality that makes it impossible to dislike.
この犬は不格好だけど憎めないんだ。
This dog is awkward-looking but you can't help loving it.
To affectionately tease someone who is not conventionally handsome/beautiful but has a cute or charming personality or feature.
Means 'face is... well, but personality is cute'. Used jokingly among close friends. Be careful with context as it can be rude if not close.
Only use with close friends in a joking manner; can be very rude otherwise.
彼、顔はアレだけど性格がかわいいよね。
He's not much to look at, but his personality is cute, isn't it?
Means 'ugly but has charm/amiability'. '愛嬌' refers to a winsome, charming quality that makes someone likable.
あの俳優はブサイクだけど愛嬌がある。
That actor is ugly but has a lot of charm.
To describe an object, design, or character that is intentionally or unintentionally ugly but still appealing.
A slang term blending 'ダサい' (uncool/tacky) and 'かわいい' (cute). Used for fashion, accessories, or designs that are so uncool they become cute.
このバッグ、ダサかわいいデザインだね。
This bag has a tacky-but-cute design, doesn't it?
Means 'questionable/subtle but cute'. '微妙' can imply something is not quite right or hard to judge, but still has appeal.
このキャラ、微妙だけどかわいい。
This character is a bit weird but cute.
Words like 'ブサイク' can be very direct and insulting. When talking about people, use euphemisms like '見た目はアレ' or focus on personality unless you are very close friends.
'ブサかわいい' is a trendy slang term widely used in media and casual conversation. It's perfect for describing pets, mascots, or celebrities with unconventional charm.
あのパグ、めっちゃブサかわいい！
That pug is so ugly but cute!
彼はイケメンじゃないけど、笑顔がかわいい。
He's not handsome, but his smile is cute.