Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Mean" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "mean", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
意地悪
いじわる (ijiwaru)
N3 / 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 意地悪 and 卑劣.
In Japanese, 意地悪 (いじわる (ijiwaru)) is typically associated with "mean; tease; spiteful; malicious" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to acting mean, spiteful, or teasing someone. Can be used as a noun, Na-adjective, or verb as 意地悪をする.
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 "意地悪"
好きな女の子にわざと意地悪なことを言ってしまう男の子は多いです。
There are many boys who purposely say mean things to the girls they like.
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: "好きな女の子にわざと ＿＿＿ なことを言ってしまう男の子は多いです。" (Meaning: "There are many boys who purposely say mean things to the girls they like.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "意地悪" fits here because it means "mean; tease; spiteful; malicious" in the context of: "There are many boys who purposely say mean things to the girls they like.". "卑劣" represents "mean, base, cowardly, despicable".