Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Greedy" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "greedy", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
さもしい
さもしい (samoshii)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
卑しい
いやしい (iyashii)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "greedy" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between さもしい and 卑しい.
In Japanese, さもしい (さもしい (samoshii)) is typically associated with "greedy, sordid, mean, shabby, poor" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes behavior that is greedy, selfish, or morally contemptible, often driven by a desire for gain..
On the other hand, 卑しい (いやしい (iyashii)) maps to "greedy, vulgar, base, ignoble" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Describes behavior, desires, or character that is considered low, mean, or excessively greedy. Can also refer to a humble social status.. A literal translation of "greedy" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "さもしい"
彼のさもしい考え方に嫌気がさした。
I grew tired of his greedy way of thinking.
Bilingual Context for "卑しい"
彼は卑しい金銭欲に取り憑かれている。
He is possessed by a base greed for money.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の ＿＿＿ 考え方に嫌気がさした。" (Meaning: "I grew tired of his greedy way of thinking.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "さもしい" fits here because it means "greedy, sordid, mean, shabby, poor" in the context of: "I grew tired of his greedy way of thinking.". "卑しい" represents "greedy, vulgar, base, ignoble".