Translation guide
The English word 'willful' describes someone who deliberately does what they want, often ignoring rules or others' wishes. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through adjectives, verbs, and phrases that convey stubbornness, self-centeredness, or intentionality.
Describing a person who insists on their own way, often unreasonably or defiantly.
The most common and versatile word for 'willful' in the sense of selfish or self-indulgent behavior. Can be used for both children and adults.
Emphasizing that an action was done on purpose, often in defiance or with full awareness of consequences.
Means 'intentional' or 'deliberate'. Used in formal or legal contexts to describe willful acts, such as crimes or misconduct.
それは故意の行為だった。
It was a willful act.
わがまま is the most general term for willful/selfish behavior. 強情 emphasizes stubborn refusal to yield, while 意地っ張り implies stubbornness from pride or contrariness. Use わがまま for everyday selfishness, 強情 for obstinate resistance, and 意地っ張り for a personality trait.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all nuances of 'willful'. Using a direct translation like '意志的な' (ishiteki na) is unnatural. Choose the word that matches the specific meaning: selfishness, stubbornness, or intentionality.
彼はわがままだ。
He is willful.
わがままを言わないで。
Don't be so willful.
Means 'self-centered' or 'egocentric'. Emphasizes that the person only thinks about themselves, often used in more serious or critical contexts.
彼女は自己中心的な人だ。
She is a willful person.
Means 'stubborn' or 'obstinate'. Focuses on the refusal to change one's mind or comply, often with a negative nuance.
あの子は強情で言うことを聞かない。
That child is willful and doesn't listen.
Describes someone who is stubborn out of pride or a desire to have their own way, often used for a personality trait. More colloquial.
彼は意地っ張りだから謝らない。
He's so willful he won't apologize.
Means 'intentional' or 'purposeful'. Slightly less formal than 故意の, but still emphasizes conscious decision.
彼の無視は意図的だった。
His ignoring me was willful.
An adverb meaning 'on purpose' or 'deliberately'. Common in everyday speech to describe willful actions.
彼はわざと遅刻した。
He was willfully late.