Translation guide
A yokel is a derogatory term for an unsophisticated person from the countryside. Japanese has several words that convey similar nuances, ranging from neutral to insulting. The best choice depends on context and how harsh you want to be.
To call someone a yokel in a derogatory way, implying they are backward, naive, or uncultured because they are from the countryside.
The most direct equivalent. Literally 'country person'. It can be neutral but is often used pejoratively. Common in everyday speech.
To describe someone as a simple country person without strong insult, perhaps even with a hint of charm or nostalgia.
A neutral phrase meaning 'person from the countryside'. Not inherently derogatory, but can be used condescendingly depending on tone.
彼は田舎の人だから、都会の生活に慣れていない。
He's a country person, so he's not used to city life.
Calling someone a 田舎者 or 田舎っぺ to their face is very rude. Use neutral terms like 田舎の人 or 田舎出身 (いなかしゅっしん, 'from the countryside') if you want to avoid offense.
彼は田舎出身です。
He is from the countryside.
田舎者 is the standard word and can be used in various contexts, while 田舎っぺ is more colloquial and explicitly mocking. Use 田舎っぺ only among close friends or when you intend to be insulting.
あんな田舎者に何がわかるんだ。
What would a yokel like that know?
A more explicitly derogatory term for a country bumpkin. Stronger than 田舎者. Often used in a teasing or contemptuous way.
彼は東京に出てきたばかりの田舎っぺだ。
He's a yokel who just came to Tokyo.
Specifically refers to a country person visiting the big city, often looking out of place. Carries a condescending tone. Common in Tokyo.
お上りさんみたいにキョロキョロするな。
Don't gawk around like a yokel.
Means 'country-raised'. Focuses on upbringing rather than inherent traits. Can be neutral or slightly pitying.
田舎育ちの彼は、星の名前をよく知っている。
Being country-raised, he knows a lot of star names.
A literary term for a rustic, unsophisticated person. Rarely used in conversation. Can be self-deprecating.
私のような田夫野人には、その芸術は理解できません。
A yokel like me can't understand that art.