How to say "timid" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 弱気よわきna-adjective, no-adjectiveCovers the weak-kneed sense: a wavering, unassertive state of mind that loses nerve in the face of a challenge, negotiation, or decision, rather than a deep-seated fear of danger.
- 臆病おくびょうna-adjective, nounThe cowardly, easily frightened sense: a disposition to fear danger, pain, or risk. It fits someone who shrinks from confrontation or the unknown, and it can carry a teasing or mildly critical tone.
- 気弱きよわna-adjective, nounTimid in the sense of meek and fainthearted: a gentle, unassertive temperament that gives up readily, with less emphasis on fear than on a lack of fighting spirit or confidence.
- 内気うちきna-adjective, nounTimid only in the social sense: shy, bashful, and reserved with people. Use it for someone quiet and slow to open up, not for fear of danger or a loss of nerve.
Choose 臆病 for a cowardly, easily frightened nature, 内気 for shyness around people, 弱気 for a wavering loss of nerve in a situation, and 気弱 for a meek, easily discouraged temperament.
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).
