Translation guide
The English word 'vain' has two main meanings: (1) having excessive pride in one's appearance or achievements, and (2) producing no result; useless. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both senses.
Describing a person who is overly concerned with their looks or accomplishments, often in a self-admiring way.
A common adjective meaning 'conceited' or 'full of oneself'. It implies an inflated self-image, often about abilities or charm.
He is vain about his appearance.
Loanword from 'narcissist'. Commonly used for someone who is excessively self-admiring, especially about looks. Slightly colloquial.
She's a bit vain, isn't she?
Literally 'drunk on oneself'. Describes someone who is self-absorbed and vain, often in a theatrical or self-congratulatory way.
He is vain about his success.
Means 'having strong vanity'. More formal and literary, often used in psychological or descriptive contexts.
He is a vain person.
Refers to someone who is showy or ostentatious, often concerned with appearances and social status. Slightly old-fashioned.
She is vain and always buys brand-name goods.
Describing efforts, attempts, or hopes that are unsuccessful or pointless.
The most common word for 'useless' or 'futile'. Used for wasted effort, time, or resources.
It is vain to try to persuade him.
It was a vain effort.
Means 'no effect' or 'no reward for the effort'. Often used after a verb in the ～た form to indicate that an action was in vain.
Waiting was in vain.
Literally 'end in fruitless labor'. A formal expression for efforts that come to nothing.
His attempt ended in vain.
Describing an action done without success or result.
When 'vain' means 'futile', do not use words for pride like うぬぼれている. Use 無駄な or 甲斐がない instead.
I searched for him in vain.
無駄 is a general word for waste or futility. 甲斐がない specifically emphasizes that effort did not yield a worthwhile result. Use 甲斐がない when you want to highlight the lack of reward for hard work.