内向的
naikōteki[na̠iko̞ːte̞kʲi]
In Japanese, the word for "introvert" is 内向的 (naikōteki).
The term refers to one who focuses primarily on their own mind, feelings or affairs.
Meaning: one who focuses primarily on their own mind, feelings, or affairs (noun)
Which one should you use?
The antonym of 内向的 (introverted) is 外向的 (extroverted), which uses the character 外 (outside) instead of 内 (inside).
How does it change in a sentence?
To use this word as an adjective to modify a noun, you must add the particle な after it. In a plain sentence, the word functions as a na-adjective and is followed by だ to complete the predicate.
How do you pronounce it?
naikōteki
Did you know?
- Japanese speakers often use the term 陰キャ (inkya) in casual slang to describe an introvert, but it carries a more negative, social-outsider connotation than the neutral 内向的.
- In Japanese social settings, someone described as 内向的 might be praised for their 空気を読む (kūki o yomu) ability, which means 'reading the air' to maintain harmony.
- While 内向的 is a neutral descriptor, Japanese culture often values 内気 (uchiki), a related word meaning 'shy' or 'timid', as a sign of modesty and humility.
Examples in context
- トムは内向的だ。Tom is an introvert.This sentence shows how to use 内向的 to describe someone.Tatoeba #8634679 by small_snow, translation #5371440 by Hybrid
- 元来の私は、内向的なんですよ。こんなところで、ちゃーちゃー言ってますけど。I'm an introvert by nature, but here I am going on and on.This sentence illustrates using 内向的 to describe one's nature.Tatoeba #10906674 by small_snow, translation #11359328 by pip
- 「自分は内向的だって言ってますよ」「ふざけるな！あいつが内向的なわけがないだろう！」「私もそう思います」"He says he's an introvert." "Yeah right! There's no way that guy's an introvert!" "I was thinking the same thing."This sentence shows a conversation where someone uses the adjective form 内向的な to modify a noun.Tatoeba #10906679 by small_snow, translation #11357704 by pip
- 日本の会社では、内向的な人々がしばしば優れたリーダーシップを発揮します。In Japanese companies, introverted individuals often demonstrate excellent leadership.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their personalities.
- 大翔 Hiroto大翔は自分を内向的だと思っていますか？Daito wa jibun o naikouteki da to omotte imasu ka?Do you think of yourself as an introvert, Daito?
- 結衣 Yuiはい、かなり内向的な方だと思います。Hai, kanari naikouteki na hou da to omoimasu.Yes, I think I'm quite introverted.
- 大翔 Hirotoそうですね。でも、話しやすい人ですよ。Sou desu ne. Demo, hanashiyasui hito desu yo.I see. But you're easy to talk to.
- 結衣 Yuiありがとうございます。結衣さんも優しいですね。Arigatou gozaimasu. Yui-san mo yasashii desu ne.Thank you. You are kind too, Yui.
Sources
- Pronunciation: Wiktionary entry 内向的, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
