Are you looking to expand your Japanese vocabulary with an expression used to express disgust or distaste? If so, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, we will explore various ways to say “ew” in Japanese, both formally and informally. We’ll provide you with tips, examples, and even some regional variations. So, let’s dive in and discover how to express that feeling of “ew” in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Ew” in Japanese
When it comes to expressing disgust politely in Japanese, there are a few phrases you can use:
1. Iya desu (いやです)
This is a versatile phrase that can be used to express various levels of distaste. It can translate to “no, thank you” or “I dislike it.”
Example:
Person A: この食べ物はいかがですか？(Kono tabemono wa ikaga desu ka?) – How about this food?
Person B: いやです、苦手です。(Iya desu, nigate desu.) – No, thank you. I don’t like it.
2. Warui desu (悪いです)
This phrase can be used to express disgust or apologize for something unpleasant.
Example:
Person A: ごめんなさい、お手洗いが詰まってしまいました。(Gomennasai, otewai ga tsumatte shimaimashita.) – I’m sorry, I clogged the toilet.
Person B: 悪いです、早く修理してください。(Warui desu, hayaku shuuri shite kudasai.) – That’s awful, please fix it quickly.
Informal Ways to Say “Ew” in Japanese
When speaking in a more casual setting or with friends, you can use the following expressions:
1. Iya (いや)
This is a versatile and commonly used slang expression to convey distaste or dislike. It can also mean “no” or “I don’t want to.”
Example:
Person A: あの映画、見る？(Ano eiga, miru?) – Do you want to watch that movie?
Person B: いや、あまり興味ない。(Iya, amari kyoumi nai.) – Nah, I’m not really interested.
2. Kimoi (キモい)
This slang expression, derived from the English word “creepy,” is used to express extreme disgust or something gross.
Example:
Person A: この虫、見て！(Kono mushi, mite!) – Look at this bug!
Person B: キモい！早く捕まえて！(Kimoi! Hayaku tsukamaete!) – Ew! Capture it quickly!
Regional Variations
While the phrases mentioned above are widely used across Japan, it’s important to note that regional variations exist. Here are a couple of examples:
1. Kanpeki jan (カンペキじゃん)
This phrase, commonly used in the Kansai region, means “that’s gross” or “disgusting.”
Example:
Person A: あれ、食べる？(Are, taberu?) – Want to eat that?
Person B: カンペキじゃん！(Kanpeki jan!) – Ew, no way!
2. Mecchakucha (めっちゃくちゃ)
This expression, commonly used in the Kanto region, means “gross” or “a mess.”
Example:
Person A: この汚れた部屋、きれいにしない？(Kono yogoreta heya, kirei ni shinai?) – Can we clean up this filthy room?
Person B: めっちゃくちゃだな。(Mecchakucha da na.) – Ew, it’s such a mess.
These are just a few examples, and Japan has many unique dialects and variations, so it’s best to explore and learn from locals when traveling to different regions.
Wrapping Up
Now that you know several ways to say “ew” in Japanese, both formally and informally, you can effectively express your feelings of disgust or distaste in various situations. Remember to choose the appropriate expression depending on the context and the people you are speaking with.
Whether you choose the polite “iya desu” or the casual “kimoi,” mastering these phrases will help you navigate social interactions and express your opinions in Japanese.
So go ahead, practice using these expressions, and don’t be afraid to immerse yourself in the rich and fascinating world of the Japanese language!
