Translation guide
The English word 'vixen' has two main uses: a female fox, and a figurative term for a spirited or quarrelsome woman. This guide covers how to express each in Japanese.
Referring to a female fox, the animal.
The standard, literal term for a female fox. Composed of 雌 (female) and 狐 (fox).
あの雌狐は子狐を育てている。
That vixen is raising her cubs.
An alternative kanji for female fox, using 牝 (female animal). Less common than 雌狐.
牝狐は用心深く巣穴に近づいた。
The vixen cautiously approached the den.
Describing a woman who is fierce, temperamental, or assertive, often with a negative or admiring tone depending on context.
There is no single Japanese word that perfectly matches the English figurative 'vixen'. The closest terms vary by nuance: じゃじゃ馬 for a feisty, unruly woman; 鬼嫁 for a domineering wife; 気の強い女 for a strong-willed woman. Using 雌狐 metaphorically for a woman is not natural in Japanese.
Literally 'restive horse', used for a headstrong, unruly woman. Often implies a tomboyish or feisty personality, sometimes affectionate.
彼女は小さい頃からじゃじゃ馬で、男の子とよく喧嘩していた。
She's been a vixen since she was little, always fighting with the boys.
Literally 'demon bride', a humorous or derogatory term for a domineering wife. Carries a stronger negative nuance than 'vixen' but overlaps in describing a fierce woman.
うちの鬼嫁に怒られちゃったよ。
My vixen of a wife got mad at me.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'strong-willed woman'. More neutral and straightforward than じゃじゃ馬.
彼は気の強い女性がタイプらしい。
He seems to like vixens (strong-willed women).
A derogatory term for a shrewish or brazen woman. Much harsher than 'vixen' and often implies vulgarity. Use with caution.
Strongly derogatory; not a neutral equivalent of 'vixen'. Avoid unless you intend a very insulting tone.
あのあばずれがまた騒いでいる。
That vixen is making a racket again.