Learning how to express different emotions and sensations in a foreign language is crucial for effective communication. If you’re looking to add the word “repulsive” to your Japanese vocabulary, this guide will provide you with formal and informal ways to express this feeling. While there are a few regional variations, they are not commonly used, so we will focus on universally understood terms instead. Let’s explore various tips, examples, and nuances of saying “repulsive” in Japanese.
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Formal Ways to Say “Repulsive” in Japanese
In formal situations, it’s important to use polite language to show respect. When you want to describe something as “repulsive,” you can use the following expressions:
Vocabulary List:
- 1. 忌まわしい (Imawashii) – This word carries the connotation of something being detestable, loathsome, or abhorrent. It can be quite strong and should be used with caution.
- 2. 嫌悪感を抱く (Ken’o-kan o idaku) – This phrase literally means “to feel a sense of disgust” and can be used to describe a repulsive feeling towards someone or something.
- 3. 不快感を覚える (Fukaikan o oboeru) – This expression signifies “to feel a sense of discomfort,” often associated with something being repulsive or unpleasant.
It’s important to note that using formal language and expressions in Japanese helps maintain respect and politeness in various situations, such as in professional environments, official settings, or when speaking to individuals of higher social status.
Informal Ways to Say “Repulsive” in Japanese
When interacting with friends, family, or in casual conversations, using informal language is more appropriate. Here are a few common expressions to convey a sense of “repulsiveness” in a less formal manner:
Vocabulary List:
- 1. うざい (Uzai) – This word is often used among friends and in casual situations to express annoyance, agitation, or being fed up with someone or something.
- 2. むかつく (Mukatsuku) – This verb describes the feeling of irritation, disgust, or being sickened by something or someone. It can be used to express repulsion towards a specific person’s actions or behavior.
- 3. きもい (Kimoi) – This slang term, commonly used by younger generations, indicates something being gross, disgusting, or creepy. It can also be used to express a sense of repulsion towards someone.
Informal expressions like these should be used with friends, peers, or in informal contexts to maintain a casual and friendly tone during conversations. It is important to note that their usage is generally considered less polite than their formal counterparts.
Examples:
Formal Examples:
彼の行動は忌まわしい。(Kare no kōdō wa imawashii)
His behavior is repulsive.
その映画は不快感を覚えます。(Sono eiga wa fukaikan o oboemasu)
That movie makes me feel uncomfortable.
Informal Examples:
彼と一緒にいると、うざい。(Kare to issho ni iru to, uzai)
Being with him is annoying.
あの虫、きもいよ！(Ano mushi, kimoi yo!)
That bug is gross!
By using these examples as a reference, you’ll have a good starting point to express the feeling of “repulsiveness” in both formal and informal situations.
Conclusion
Learning how to say “repulsive” in Japanese allows you to convey your emotions accurately and express your feelings appropriately in various social settings. We have covered both formal and informal ways to describe repulsive sensations, providing you with different options depending on the context of your conversations. Remember to use formal expressions when necessary, particularly in professional or respectful environments. When speaking to friends or in casual scenarios, the informal expressions will help you connect on a more personal level. Practice these words and phrases to broaden your Japanese vocabulary and navigate conversations with ease.
