Translation guide
Describes someone experienced in the ways of the world, often implying sophistication, practicality, or a lack of naivety. Can also refer to material or secular concerns as opposed to spiritual ones.
Describing a person who is knowledgeable about life, not naive, and often socially adept.
Literally 'accustomed to the world'. Describes someone who is worldly-wise, experienced in social situations, and not easily shocked.
彼はとても世慣れた人だ。
He is a very worldly person.
Means 'secular' or 'worldly' in the sense of being concerned with material things rather than spiritual. Can describe a person focused on worldly pleasures.
彼女は世俗的な成功を追い求めている。
She pursues worldly success.
Actually means 'unworldly' or 'above worldly concerns', but can be used in contrast. Included here to warn against confusion.
This means the opposite: detached from worldly affairs, often in a refined or artistic way. Do not use for 'worldly'.
彼の浮世離れした態度に驚いた。
I was surprised by his unworldly attitude.
Referring to things of this world, especially material possessions, pleasures, or concerns, in contrast to religious or spiritual matters.
Directly means 'secular' or 'worldly'. Used for worldly affairs, pleasures, or knowledge as opposed to religious.
彼は世俗の欲望を捨てた。
He renounced worldly desires.
Means 'of this world' or 'earthly', often used in religious contexts to contrast with the afterlife or spiritual realm.
現世の富よりも心の平安が大切だ。
Peace of mind is more important than worldly wealth.
Refers to the mundane world, everyday society with its cares and temptations. Often used in Buddhist contexts.
僧は俗世間の煩わしさから離れて暮らしている。
The monk lives away from worldly troubles.
Describing someone who has broad international experience, is familiar with many cultures, and is sophisticated in a global sense.
Means 'having an international sensibility'. Describes someone who is worldly in the sense of being globally aware and culturally adaptable.
彼女は国際感覚のある人材として評価されている。
She is valued as a worldly talent.
Literally 'knows the world'. A straightforward way to say someone is worldly-wise through travel and experience.
彼は若い頃から世界を知っている。
He has been worldly since he was young.
While 世俗的な人 is possible, it often implies 'materialistic' or 'secular' rather than 'sophisticated'. Use 世慣れた for the positive sense of worldly-wise.
世慣れた is about social experience and savvy. 世俗的 is about being concerned with worldly (often material) things, and can have a negative nuance of being unspiritual.