How to say "dirty" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 汚いきたないi-adjectiveThe default word for literal dirtiness: things covered in grime such as rooms, hands, or clothes. It also extends figuratively to foul or unfair behavior.
- 不潔ふけつna-adjective, nounFrames dirtiness as a hygiene issue rather than mere grime: unsanitary conditions, unclean habits or surroundings. Choose it when cleanliness and health, not just appearance, are at stake.
- 不浄ふじょうna-adjective, no-adjectiveCenters on impurity, often with religious or ritual overtones, rather than everyday grime. For ordinary dirty objects or places it is seldom the word you want; think ritual or spiritual uncleanness.
- 卑劣ひれつna-adjective, nounCovers 'dirty' only in the moral sense: mean, contemptible conduct such as underhanded tactics. It never describes physical grime; use it to condemn behavior, not to talk about mess.
- noun (prefix)Handles 'dirty' only in the sexual sense: lewd, prurient, as with a dirty joke or dirty mind. It has nothing to do with actual dirt or mess.
Use 「汚い」 for literal grime, 不潔 for hygiene and sanitation, 不浄 for ritual impurity, 卑劣 for morally contemptible behavior, and 「エロ」 for the sexual sense of 'dirty'.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
This browser can't play pronunciations (needs Safari 18.4 or later, or Chrome / Edge / Firefox).
