Konnichiwa! If you want to express anger in Japanese, it’s important to understand various ways to convey this emotion. In this guide, we’ll explore how to say “to be angry” in both formal and informal contexts. Additionally, we’ll provide you with helpful tips and examples to enhance your understanding. Whether you’re planning a trip to Japan, interacting with Japanese friends, or simply interested in learning more about the language, let’s explore the concept of anger in Japanese!
Table of Contents
Formal Ways to Say “To Be Angry” in Japanese
When expressing anger in formal situations, it’s essential to use appropriate language and honorifics. Here are some phrases you can use:
- Okoreru: This is the standard verb that translates to “to be angry” in a formal context. For example:
「彼は怒（おこ）れると、静か（しず）になる。」(Kare wa okoreru to, shizuka ni naru.)
Translation: “When he gets angry, he becomes quiet.” - Oikakeru: This verb refers to expressing anger through pursuing or chasing someone. It implies a more intense anger. An example:
「上司（じょうし）は私（わたし）を追（お）いかけて怒（おこ）りました。」(Jōshi wa watashi o oikakete okorimashita.)
Translation: “The boss chased after me in anger.” - Ikari o mōsu: This is an alternative expression that can be used when someone is feeling deep anger. Example:
「彼（かれ）は怒（いか）りを催（もよお）しているように見（み）える。」(Kare wa ikari o moyōshite iru yō ni mieru.)
Translation: “He looks like he’s deeply angry.”
Informal Ways to Say “To Be Angry” in Japanese
In informal settings, such as talking with friends or close acquaintances, the language can be more casual. Here are some expressions for conveying anger informally:
- Okoru/yaru: These are common words used to express anger casually. For example:
「彼（かれ）が怒（おこ）っているよ。」(Kare ga okotte iru yo.)
Translation: “He’s angry, you know.” - Ikaru: This is another casual verb meaning “to get angry.” An example:
「先生（せんせい）にひどく怒（いか）られた。」(Sensei ni hidoku ikarareta.)
Translation: “I got scolded terribly by the teacher.”
Tips for Expressing Anger in Japanese
Here are some tips to enhance your understanding and usage of anger-related expressions in Japanese:
1. Consider the Context
When expressing anger, it’s crucial to consider the context in which you’re using the language. Formal situations typically require polite language, while casual settings allow for more relaxed expressions.
2. Be Mindful of Intensity
Pay attention to the level of anger you want to convey. This will determine which verb or phrase is most appropriate. Using a milder expression in a severe situation may not effectively communicate your anger.
3. Mimic Natural Speech Patterns
Listen to native Japanese speakers and try to mimic their natural speech patterns. This will help you understand how anger is expressed and enable you to sound more fluent when using anger-related phrases.
Examples
Let’s explore more examples to solidify your understanding using both formal and informal phrases:
Formal Examples:
1. 上司（じょうし）が私（わたし）に怒（おこ）っているようです。 (Jōshi ga watashi ni okotte iru yō desu.)
Translation: It seems like my boss is angry with me.2. 社長（しゃちょう）は大変（たいへん）にお怒（おいか）りです。 (Shachō wa taihen ni odokaridesu.)
Translation: The company president is very angry.
Informal Examples:
1. 彼（かれ）がむかつくなあ。 (Kare ga mukatsuku nā.)
Translation: He’s really irritating me.2. テストの結果（けっか）が悪（わる）くて怒（おこ）られたよ。 (Tesuto no kekka ga warukute okorareta yo.)
Translation: I was scolded because of my poor test results.
Remember, language is a constantly evolving form of communication, so variations might exist depending on region or personal preferences. However, the phrases and expressions covered in this guide will serve as a solid foundation for expressing anger in Japanese.
Practice using these phrases in various contexts to improve your fluency and understanding. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt them to suit your own conversational style. Anger is a common emotion, and knowing how to express it appropriately in Japanese will deepen your understanding of the language and allow for more meaningful interactions.
Ganbatte kudasai! (Good luck!)
