How to say "ugly" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- 醜いみにくいi-adjectiveThe most direct word for ugly looks: it describes people, animals, or things that are unattractive or bad-looking. Use it when you simply mean that something is ugly to see.
- 見苦しいみぐるしいi-adjectiveCovers ugliness that is unpleasant or offensive to look at, and extends to unseemly or indecent behavior that is hard to watch. Think of a sight or display you find embarrassing.
- 醜悪しゅうあくna-adjective, nounA forceful word for ugliness that repels the viewer — hideous, even mean. It is heavier than 醜い and suits extreme cases or things that are morally as well as visually repugnant.
- i-adjectiveColloquial, and really about style rather than looks: it means uncool, lame, or unfashionable. It is seldom the word you want for physical ugliness; reach for it when mocking someone's taste or fashion.
Use 「醜い」 for plain physical ugliness, 「見苦しい」 for sights or behavior unpleasant to watch, 醜悪 for extreme or morally repulsive ugliness, and 「ダサい」 only for unfashionable, uncool style.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
See also
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