Learning how to express the word “snob” in different languages can be useful when conversing with people from different cultures. In Japanese, the equivalent term for “snob” may vary depending on the level of formality and the context in which it is used. This guide will introduce you to the formal and informal ways of saying “snob” in Japanese, while providing tips, examples, and regional variations where necessary.
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “Snob”
1. 気取り屋 (Kidoriya) – The term “Kidoriya” is used to describe someone who puts on airs, acts pretentiously, or tries to appear superior. It encompasses the idea of snobbish behavior without directly translating to “snob.”
Example: 彼女はいつも品のある洋服を着て、気取り屋のような態度をとる。(Kanojo wa itsumo shina no aru yōfuku o kite, kidoriya no yōna taido o toru.) – She always wears stylish clothes and acts as if she were a snob.
2. 高慢な人 (Kōman na hito) – This phrase translates to “arrogant person” or “haughty individual” and is used to describe someone who displays snobbish behavior due to a sense of superiority.
Example: 高慢な人の言葉にはいつも軽蔑感を覚える。(Kōman na hito no kotoba ni wa itsumo keibetsu-kan o oboeru.) – I always feel a sense of contempt whenever I hear the words of an arrogant person.
Informal Ways to Say “Snob”
1. ドヤ顔 (Doya-gao) – The term “Doya-gao” refers to someone who constantly wears a smug or conceited expression on their face, portraying a snobbish attitude.
Example: 彼はいつもドヤ顔をしているから、スノッブな人だと思われるよ。(Kare wa itsumo doya-gao o shite iru kara, sunobu na hito da to omowareru yo.) – Since he always has a smug expression, people think he is a snob.
2. だぶつく (Dabutsuku) – Used mainly in casual conversations, “Dabutsuku” describes someone who acts superior or snobbish towards others.
Example: サッカーをうまく蹴れないやつらに対して、あの選手はだぶつくような態度をとる。(Sakkā o umaku kerenai yatsura ni taishite, ano senshu wa dabutsuku yō na taido o toru.) – That player acts snobbish towards those who can’t kick the soccer ball well.
Regional Variations
Language and slang can vary from region to region, and this also holds true for colloquial ways of expressing “snob” in different areas of Japan. Below are a couple of regional variations:
1. めちゃくちゃ横柄 (Mechakucha yokogara) – This phrase, commonly used in the Kansai region, means someone who is overly arrogant, conceited, or snobbish.
Example: あの人はめちゃくちゃ横柄やで！(Ano hito wa mechakucha yokogara yade!) – That person is incredibly snobbish!
2. インテリ (Interi) – In some regions, particularly in Tokyo, the word “interi” is used to refer to someone who acts snobbish due to their intellectual superiority. It carries the connotation of being an intellectual snob.
Example: 都会ではインテリな人ほど他の人を見下す傾向がある。(Tokai de wa interi na hito hodo hoka no hito o mikudasu keikō ga aru.) – In the city, intellectuals tend to look down on others more frequently.
Tip: When using these regional variations, it is important to note that people from other areas may not be familiar with them. Ensure proper context or use them with locals who understand the local dialect.
Conclusion
Now you have learned how to say “snob” in Japanese using both formal and informal expressions. It’s important to remember that the term’s connotations may differ across cultures, so understanding the nuances of a word when speaking with native speakers is crucial. Practice using the provided examples to become more familiar with the appropriate usage of these terms. By embracing cultural diversity, you can navigate conversations and situations more effectively, fostering mutual understanding and respect.
