Translation guide
Describes a weak, cowardly, or timid person. Japanese has many colorful terms ranging from mild teasing to harsh insults.
To call someone a wimp in a general sense, implying lack of courage or physical weakness.
Literally 'weak bug'. A common, slightly childish term for a coward or weakling. Can be used teasingly or seriously.
He's such a wimp; he can't ride roller coasters.
Means 'coward'. More formal and direct than 弱虫. Often used in serious contexts.
A coward can't go on adventures.
Literally 'missing hips', implying spinelessness. A strong insult for a coward or someone who lacks guts.
What can a spineless wimp like that do?
Means 'gutless' or 'spineless'. Emphasizes lack of willpower or spirit. Somewhat old-fashioned.
He's such a wimp he won't even talk back.
To describe someone who is physically weak, puny, or lacking strength.
Describes physical weakness or frailty. Can be used for people who are thin and weak-looking.
He's so puny he can't carry heavy luggage.
Means 'frail' or 'delicate', often used for women or children. Implies a need for protection.
Means 'weak' or 'soft', often used for men who lack toughness or masculinity. Can be derogatory.
To describe someone who is shy, timid, or easily scared.
Means 'scaredy-cat' or someone who is easily frightened. Common in casual speech.
Our dog is a wimp; he trembles when it thunders.
Means 'timid person' or 'coward'. Emphasizes a small, fearful heart. Can be used self-deprecatingly.
Loanword from English 'chicken', meaning coward. Used in casual, often teasing contexts.
There is no single perfect equivalent. Choose based on whether you mean cowardly, physically weak, or timid. Using the wrong term can sound unnatural or overly harsh.
弱虫 is more childish and teasing, while 臆病者 is a serious accusation of cowardice. 弱虫 can be used among friends; 臆病者 is heavier.
彼女はか弱い少女だった。
She was a frail little girl.
軟弱な男は嫌いだ。
I hate wimpy guys.
I'm a wimp, so I'm bad at speaking in public.
You're such a chicken!