気まぐれ
Meanings
1
Refers to a sudden, unpredictable desire or change of mind. Often used in phrases like 気まぐれで (on a whim) or 気まぐれな (whimsical).
He set off on a trip on a whim.
Today's shopping was a spur-of-the-moment thing.
2
Describes a person, mood, or thing that changes unpredictably. Can be used as 気まぐれな + noun or 気まぐれだ.
She has a capricious personality.
Spring weather is fickle.
Usage patterns
- 気まぐれで〈動詞〉to do something on a whim
He went on a trip on a whim.
- 気まぐれな〈人〉a capricious or whimsical person
She has a fickle personality and her plans often change.
- 気まぐれを起こすto have a sudden whim (often of animals or oneself)
The cat had a sudden whim and lost interest in its toy.
- 〈人〉の気まぐれに付き合うto go along with someone's whim
I went along with my friend's whim and went on a late-night drive.