How to say "itchy" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- i-adjectiveThe ordinary word for the physical sensation of itchy skin, as from a rash, a bite, or dry skin; when you simply want to say that a spot itches, this is the word to reach for.
- i-adjectiveAlso means itchy, but suggests a tingling, tickling kind of itch rather than a plain itching sensation; it is the less common of the two, so かゆい is normally the safer choice.
Use 「かゆい」 as the everyday word for an itchy feeling on the skin; 「むずがゆい」 also means itchy but adds a tingling, tickling nuance and is less common, so 「かゆい」 is usually the safer choice.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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