Translation guide
The English word 'uncomfortable' covers physical discomfort, social awkwardness, and uneasy feelings. Japanese uses different words for each nuance, and often relies on phrases rather than a single adjective.
This chair is uncomfortable.
I feel uncomfortable in this situation.
The silence was uncomfortable.
Express that something causes physical discomfort or an unpleasant sensation.
A general word for physical discomfort or unpleasantness, often used for sensations like heat, humidity, or an uncomfortable environment.
This chair is uncomfortable to sit in.
Specifically for clothes that feel uncomfortable against the skin, like scratchy fabric or a tight fit.
This sweater is uncomfortable to wear.
For seats or chairs that are uncomfortable to sit on.
This sofa is uncomfortable to sit on.
Describes tight, cramped, or restrictive physical discomfort, like tight shoes or a narrow space.
Describe a situation or atmosphere that feels awkward, embarrassing, or makes people uneasy.
Express a feeling of unease, anxiety, or that something is not right.
A noun/adjective meaning anxiety, uneasiness, or insecurity. Often used for vague worries or lack of confidence.
Describe bodily discomfort from sickness, pain, or a specific physical condition.
General phrase for feeling unwell or under the weather, often implying physical discomfort.
The English word 'uncomfortable' covers many situations, but Japanese uses different expressions for physical, social, and mental discomfort. Using the wrong one can sound unnatural. For example, 不快 is mainly for physical discomfort, while 気まずい is for awkward social situations.
居心地が悪い (igokochi ga warui) means you feel out of place or unwelcome in a setting. 気まずい (kimazui) means the atmosphere between people is awkward, often due to a specific incident. You can feel 居心地が悪い at a party where you know no one, but 気まずい when you run into an ex.
The heat makes me uncomfortable.
The muggy weather is uncomfortable.
この靴は窮屈だ。
These shoes are tight and uncomfortable.
The airplane seat was cramped and uncomfortable.
The most common word for an awkward atmosphere between people, often after an argument or when there is tension.
An uncomfortable silence continued.
It's awkward/uncomfortable to see him.
Feeling out of place or uncomfortable in a social setting, like being the only stranger at a party.
I felt uncomfortable at my new workplace.
Means 'embarrassing' or 'shy', but can overlap with 'uncomfortable' when the discomfort comes from embarrassment.
Speaking in public is embarrassing and uncomfortable.
Feeling awkward or embarrassed because of a mistake or a situation where you feel you've done something wrong.
I felt uncomfortable/awkward because I was late.
I'm uncomfortable/anxious about tomorrow's exam.
I felt uncomfortable/uneasy about his attitude.
Feeling restless, unable to relax, or ill at ease. Often used when you can't settle down mentally.
I feel somehow uncomfortable/restless.
Literally 'feels bad', used for a creepy or unsettling feeling that makes you uncomfortable, or for physical nausea.
That person always stares at me; it's uncomfortable/creepy.
A feeling that something is off or doesn't fit, causing a sense of discomfort or unease.
His explanation makes me uncomfortable; something feels off.
I'm feeling uncomfortable/unwell today and have been lying down all day.
Simply 'painful', used when the discomfort is specifically from pain.
These shoes are so uncomfortable (painful) I can't wear them.
An itchy, ticklish, or crawly sensation that makes you uncomfortable, like restless legs or an itch you can't scratch.
The bug bite is uncomfortable and itchy.
I felt uncomfortable when he asked about my salary.
This bed is really uncomfortable.