Translation guide
The English word "wicked" has several distinct meanings: morally bad, playfully mischievous, excellent (slang), and more. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each nuance.
Describing a person, action, or thing that is evil, sinful, or morally wrong.
A common word for 'evil' or 'wickedness', often used for abstract evil or wicked acts.
He has a wicked heart.
Means 'crafty and wicked', often used for cunning, unscrupulous behavior.
He earns money by wicked means.
Means 'heinous' or 'atrocious', emphasizing extreme wickedness.
A heinously wicked criminal.
Literally 'black-bellied', meaning scheming, malicious, or wicked in a hidden way.
She has a wicked personality.
Describing a person, smile, or sense of humor that is teasing, impish, or slightly naughty in a charming way.
Means 'mischievous' or 'impish', perfect for a playful, wicked grin or personality.
He gave a wicked grin.
Literally 'little devil-like', used for a coquettish, playfully wicked charm, often for women.
Means 'having a playful/mischievous streak', often used for a roguish personality.
I like his wicked sense of humor.
Used as slang, especially in New England or UK, to mean 'very good' or 'cool'.
General word for 'the best' or 'awesome', widely understood.
That movie was wicked!
Common word for 'amazing' or 'great', can be used in similar contexts.
Slang for 'awesome' or 'insane' (in a good way), very casual.
Describing something harsh, foul, or intense in a negative way, like a wicked storm or a wicked smell.
Used informally to describe something tough, harsh, or unfair.
When 'wicked' is used as slang for 'excellent', do not use words like 邪悪 (evil). Instead, use general positive intensifiers like 最高 or すごい.
邪悪 is a straightforward 'evil', while 腹黒い implies hidden, scheming wickedness. Use 腹黒い for someone who seems nice but is actually malicious.
I was drawn to her wicked charm.
His guitar skills are wicked.
Isn't this song wicked?
That method is wicked.