Translation guide
The English word 'wilful' (or 'willful') describes intentional, deliberate actions, often with a negative connotation of stubbornness or defiance. This guide helps learners express these nuances naturally in Japanese.
Expressing that an action was done on purpose, not by accident. Often used in legal or formal contexts.
The most direct equivalent for 'intentional' or 'deliberate', often used in formal or legal contexts. It can carry a negative implication of wrongdoing.
それは故意の行為だった。
It was a wilful act.
Means 'intentional' in a neutral sense, focusing on the presence of intent. Less inherently negative than 故意の.
彼の行動は意図的だった。
His actions were wilful.
An adverb meaning 'on purpose' or 'deliberately'. Common in everyday speech, often with a negative nuance.
彼はわざとそれをやった。
He did it wilfully.
Describing a person who insists on having their own way, often unreasonably.
The standard word for 'stubborn' or 'obstinate'. It describes a person who won't change their mind or behavior.
彼女は頑固で、自分の意見を曲げない。
She is wilful and won't budge from her opinion.
Similar to 頑固な, but often implies a more defiant or unyielding stubbornness.
彼は強情に自分の非を認めなかった。
He wilfully refused to admit his mistake.
Describes someone who is stubborn out of pride or a desire to not lose face. Often used for children or in personal relationships.
あの子は意地っ張りで、謝ろうとしない。
That child is wilful and won't apologize.
Deliberately ignoring something or acting without regard for consequences.
Literally 'to intentionally ignore'. Used when someone chooses to overlook something.
彼は故意にその問題を無視した。
He wilfully ignored the problem.
A colloquial way to say 'to pretend not to know on purpose'. Implies wilful ignorance.
彼女はわざと知らんぷりをした。
She wilfully pretended not to notice.
English 'wilful' often combines intent and stubbornness. In Japanese, it's usually better to choose a word that matches the specific nuance: 故意の for intentional acts, 頑固な for stubborn personality. Using a single Japanese word for all uses of 'wilful' can sound unnatural.
彼は頑固でわがままだ。
He is wilful and selfish. (Here, 頑固 captures the stubbornness, not 故意.)