Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Mean" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "mean", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
さもしい
さもしい (samoshii)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
卑劣
ひれつ (hiretsu)
N1 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "mean" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between さもしい and 卑劣.
In Japanese, さもしい (さもしい (samoshii)) is typically associated with "mean, sordid, ignoble, greedy, petty, small-minded" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes behavior or character that is despicable, greedy, petty, or ignoble, often driven by self-interest or a lack of integrity. It's a strong negative term. 自分の利益ばかりを追求したり、品性がなく下劣な振る舞いを表す。強い否定的な意味合いを持つ。.
On the other hand, 卑劣 (ひれつ (hiretsu)) maps to "mean, base, cowardly, despicable" (Syllabus Level: N1) and represents Describes an act or person's character as contemptibly low, unfair, cowardly, or morally degenerate. Carries a strong negative connotation.. A literal translation of "mean" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "さもしい"
彼の金儲けに対するさもしい考え方にはうんざりする。
I'm fed up with his sordid way of thinking about making money.
Bilingual Context for "卑劣"
彼の卑劣な行為は許されるべきではない。
His despicable act should not be forgiven.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の金儲けに対する ＿＿＿ 考え方にはうんざりする。" (Meaning: "I'm fed up with his sordid way of thinking about making money.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "さもしい" fits here because it means "mean, sordid, ignoble, greedy, petty, small-minded" in the context of: "I'm fed up with his sordid way of thinking about making money.". "卑劣" represents "mean, base, cowardly, despicable".