How to Say “Complicated” in Japanese: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Muzukashii (むずかしい):

Muzukashii is the most common and straightforward word for “complicated” in Japanese. It can be used in various contexts and is applicable both to objects and situations. For example:

• これは難しい仕事です。(Kore wa muzukashii shigoto desu.)
  This is a complicated task.
• 彼の説明は難しすぎる。(Kare no setsumei wa muzukashisugiru.)
  His explanation is too complicated.

2. Fukuzatsu na (複雑な):

Fukuzatsu na is another formal term for “complicated” in Japanese. It emphasizes complexity in a more sophisticated way. For instance:

• その計画は複雑な層を持っている。(Sono keikaku wa fukuzatsuna sō o motte iru.)
  This plan has complex layers.
• 彼女の心情は複雑なものだ。(Kanojo no shinjō wa fukuzatsuna mono da.)
  Her feelings are complicated.

Informal Ways to Say “Complicated” in Japanese:

In informal situations, you have more flexibility to choose how to express complexity. Here are some commonly used informal expressions:

1. Muzukashii (むずかしい):

Yes, you read it correctly. Muzukashii, which was mentioned earlier as a formal term, is also commonly used in casual conversations. It is versatile and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Example usage:

• この問題はむずかしすぎるよ。(Kono mondai wa muzukashisugiru yo.)
  This problem is too complicated, you know.
• あの映画の結末はむずかしかったね。(Ano eiga no ketsumatsu wa muzukashikatta ne.)
  The ending of that movie was complicated, right?

2. Komplike (コンプリケ):

“Komplike” is a borrowed word from English that has been adopted into Japanese. It is particularly popular among younger generations when referring to a complicated situation or object. Example usage:

• そのゲームはコンプリケだけど、面白いよ。(Sono gēmu wa konpurikedakedo, omoshiroi yo.)
  The game is complicated, but it’s interesting.
• 最近のテクノロジーは本当にコンプリケだな。(Saikin no tekunorojī wa hontō ni konpurikedana.)
  Recent technology is really complicated, you know.

Regional Variations:

Japanese is also rich in regional dialects that add fascinating nuances to the language. While “complicated” doesn’t have significant regional variations, it is worth mentioning a couple:

1. Memotsu (めもつ) in Nagoya dialect:

In Nagoya dialect, the word “memotsu” is used to mean “complicated.” If you happen to be in the Nagoya region, you might encounter locals utilizing this term. Example usage:

• この問題はめもつやで。(Kono mondai wa memotsuyade.)
  This problem is complicated.
• オッチャン、なんかめもつな言い回しやなぁ。(Occhan, nanka memotsuna iimawashi yanā.)
  Man, you have a complicated way of saying things.

2. Waranai (わらない) in Kansai dialect:

In the Kansai dialect, “waranai” is often used as a regional variation of “complicated.” If you find yourself in the Kansai region, you may come across this term. Example usage:

• 今回の計画、何かわらないことばっかりやなぁ。(Konkai no keikaku, nani ka waranai koto bakkari yanā.)
  This plan is nothing but complications.
• 彼、わらない奴やわ。(Kare, waranai yatsu ya wa.)
  He’s a complicated person.

Tips for Learning and Using “Complicated” in Japanese:

To better integrate the term “complicated” into your Japanese vocabulary, here are some additional tips:

• Read and listen to Japanese materials: Engaging with Japanese literature, news articles, and podcasts will expose you to various contexts in which “complicated” is used.
• Practice conversations: Find language exchange partners or join online communities to practice using different expressions for “complicated.”
• Watch Japanese movies and TV shows: Pay attention to how “complicated” is expressed in dialogue. This will help you understand the appropriate usage in different situations.

In Conclusion

Learning how to say “complicated” in Japanese is a valuable skill that enables effective communication in various contexts. Whether you need to express complexity formally or informally, the terms provided in this guide will help you navigate the Japanese language with greater confidence. Remember to consider regional variations when applicable and don’t hesitate to practice and explore further to enhance your fluency. Happy language learning!