ちくしょう
chikushō
The Japanese phrase for "darn it" is ちくしょう (chikushō).
ちくしょう is an exclamation used to convey frustration, irritation or anger.
What does it mean word for word?
The word is written with the kanji for "beast" or "animal" (畜生).
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
ちくしょう is a rough, informal exclamation. In informal settings, the word くそ can also be used more liberally to express annoyance or exasperation.
How do you pronounce it?
chikushō
Did you know?
- The word ちくしょう originates from a Buddhist term for animals who lack the ability to reason and are trapped in a cycle of suffering. By saying it, the speaker is essentially cursing someone or something to be reborn as a beast.
- In Japanese, the word くそ can be used both as an exclamation of frustration and as an intensifier similar to 'extremely' or 'super' in English slang, such as saying something is 'super' expensive.
- In some contexts, the word 畜生 is used as a way to describe someone who is completely irredeemable or utterly lacking in virtue.
Examples in context
- ちくしょう、また遅刻してしまった！Darn it, I'm late again!
- くそ、また忘れ物した！Darn it, I forgot something again!
- ちくしょう、なんでうまくいかないんだろう！Darn it, why isn't it working properly!
- ちくしょう、またやってしまった。Chikushō, mata yatte shimatta.Darn it, I did it again.
- ちくしょう、バスが行っちゃった。Chikushō, basu ga icchatta.Darn it, the bus left.
- ちくしょう、鍵を忘れた。Chikushō, kagi o wasureta.Darn it, I forgot my keys.
Example conversation
Yui and Youta are at a cafe when Youta realizes he forgot his wallet.
- 結衣 Yui陽太君、財布は持ってる？Youta-kun, saifu wa motteru?Youta, do you have your wallet?
- 陽太 Yotaちくしょう、忘れてきた。Chikushō, wasurete kita.Darn it, I left it behind.
- 結衣 Yui大丈夫、私が払うよ。Daijōbu, watashi ga harau yo.It's okay, I'll pay.
- 陽太 Yota本当にごめんね。Hontō ni gomen ne.I am really sorry.
