このドブネズミ
kono dobunezumi
The phrase "you ugly rat" in Japanese is このドブネズミ (kono dobunezumi).
This is an insulting term used to describe someone as disgusting or contemptible. The phrase is used to dehumanize or express extreme contempt for someone, comparing them to a filthy creature living in a sewer.
How does it change in a sentence?
The word この (this) is used here as a demonstrative to direct the insult specifically at the person being addressed, functioning similarly to the English "you" in "you [insult]".
How do you pronounce it?
kono dobunezumi
Did you know?
- While ドブネズミ is a harsh insult, the general term for rat ネズミ can be a symbol of prosperity and cleverness in the Japanese zodiac. The addition of ドブ completely flips this positive cultural association.
- In Japanese, the term ネズミ (rat) is often used to describe a spy or a traitor rather than someone's appearance. This shifts the insult from a comment on hygiene to a comment on loyalty.
- Because of its extreme aggression, you will almost never hear このドブネズミ used in actual Japanese conversation, appearing almost exclusively in scripted fiction like anime or manga.
Examples in context
- このドブネズミが、消えろ！Kono dobu nezumi ga, kiero!Get lost, you filthy rat!
Example conversation
Two characters are arguing in a dramatic street confrontation.
- 陽太 Yotaこのドブネズミめ！Kono dobu nezumi me!You disgusting rat!
- 結衣 Yuiひどい言い方しないで！Hidoi iikata shinai de!Don't say such horrible things!
- 陽太 Yotaお前の態度は最悪だ。Omae no taido wa saiaku da.Your attitude is the worst.
- 結衣 Yuiもう話したくない。Mou hanashitakunai.I don't want to talk anymore.
