おちおち
Meanings
1
in peace; without worry; comfortably
usually written using kana aloneonomatopoeic or mimetic word
Used in negative expressions like おちおち〜できない to mean one cannot do something in peace or without worry. Often describes being unable to relax or do something calmly due to disturbance or anxiety.
I can't sleep peacefully because of the noise next door.
I'm so worried about the exam that I can't even enjoy myself.
Usage patterns
- おちおち〈動詞〉ていられないcannot even calmly do ~ (due to worry or disturbance)
Because of the noise next door, I can't even sleep in peace.
- おちおち〈動詞〉もできないcannot even do ~ properly, being too anxious or disturbed
I'm so worried I can't even eat in peace.