Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Bothersome" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "bothersome", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
おっくう
おっくう (okkuu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
億劫
おっくう (okkū)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "bothersome" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between おっくう and 億劫.
In Japanese, おっくう (おっくう (okkuu)) is typically associated with "bothersome, troublesome, feeling disinclined, a bother" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a feeling of reluctance or bother to do something because it seems troublesome, inconvenient, or requires effort. Often implies procrastination or a lack of motivation. Used as an adjective.
On the other hand, 億劫 (おっくう (okkū)) maps to "bothersome, troublesome (feeling reluctant to do something)" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes a feeling of reluctance or the mental burden of starting something, often due to perceived difficulty or lack of motivation. 日本語では、何かをするのが面倒だと感じるときに使われます。. A literal translation of "bothersome" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "おっくう"
寒い日は、布団から出るのがおっくうになる。
On cold days, getting out of bed feels like a bother.
Bilingual Context for "億劫"
寒い日は、外に出るのが億劫になる。
On cold days, it feels too troublesome to go outside.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "寒い日は、布団から出るのが ＿＿＿ になる。" (Meaning: "On cold days, getting out of bed feels like a bother.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "おっくう" fits here because it means "bothersome, troublesome, feeling disinclined, a bother" in the context of: "On cold days, getting out of bed feels like a bother.". "億劫" represents "bothersome, troublesome (feeling reluctant to do something)".