カジュアル
kajuaru
The English word 'informal' can be expressed in Japanese as カジュアル (kajuaru).
カジュアル is used to mean 'informal' in a relaxed or laid-back context, such as describing clothing or an atmosphere. For example, you might use it in the phrase カジュアルな服装 to mean 'casual clothing'.
Meaning: language: reflecting everyday, non-ceremonious usage (adj)
Which one should you use?
While カジュアル describes a relaxed atmosphere or dress code, other terms exist for different nuances of informality. くだけた is used to describe a friendly or informal atmosphere or behavior. ていねいじゃない literally means 'not polite' and is used to express informality. For a more formal expression of the concept 'informal', use 非公式.
How does it change in a sentence?
カジュアル is a na-adjective. This means that when it modifies a noun, you must add な to the end, forming カジュアルな.
How do you pronounce it?
kajuaru
Did you know?
- To describe an informal conversation, Japanese speakers often use くだけた, which literally means 'broken' or 'collapsed' like a wall being taken down.
- In Japan, wearing カジュアル clothes to a wedding is often seen as a significant social faux pas, even if the invitation says the event is relaxed.
- Japanese learners often find that the most 'informal' way to speak involves omitting the subject and object entirely, which is rarely done in English.
Examples in context
- 彼はいつもカジュアルな格好をしています。He always dresses casually.
- ビジネスシーンでは、くだけた言葉遣いは避けましょう。Let's avoid using casual language in a business setting.
- カジュアルな服装ですね。kasuaru na fukusou desu ne.It is a casual outfit, isn't it?
- もっとカジュアルな言い方に変えましょう。motto kasuaru na iikata ni kaemashou.Let's change it to a more casual way of saying it.
- このカフェはカジュアルな雰囲気です。kono kafe wa kasuaru na fun'iki desu.This cafe has a casual atmosphere.
Example conversation
Kenta and Yui are discussing the dress code for a party.
- 健太 Kentaパーティーの服はカジュアルでいいかな？paatii no fuku wa kasuaru de ii kana?Is casual okay for the party clothes?
- 結衣 Yuiうん、カジュアルな感じで大丈夫だよ。un, kasuaru na kanji de daijoubu da yo.Yeah, a casual feeling is fine.
- 健太 Kentaよかった、じゃあジーンズで行くね。yokatta, jaa jiinzu de iku ne.Great, then I'll go in jeans.
- 結衣 Yui健太君ならそれでぴったりだよ。Kenta-kun nara sore de pittari da yo.That would suit you perfectly, Kenta.
