【Slang Japanese】Learning Japanese slang　 -Lesson1-

In this article, I will explain Japanese slang over several installments. I will introduce only those that are commonly used in Japan, so please try using them when you come to Japan. However, please be careful not to use them with people you meet for the first time or with those who are senior to you, as it may be considered rude.

マジ (maji) – Really, Seriously

I think this is a famous slang. It can also be used as “マジで？（Really? or Seriously?）” in Japanese.

ガチ (gachi) – Serious or earnest

“ガチ” is a slang term that refers to being serious or committed to something, or taking something seriously. For example, it can mean to have a serious competition or “ガチ勝負(がちしょうぶ)” in a game. However, the meaning can vary depending on the situation or context. For instance, “ガチでおいしい” can mean that the food is extremely delicious. Additionally, it can also refer to serious or private conversations as “ガチ話(がちばなし).”

ヤバい (yabai) – It varies depending on the timing

“ヤバい” can be translated to “dangerous” or “bad,” but it is often used as slang to express excitement or amazement. In that context, it can be translated as “awesome,” “amazing,” or “cool.”

サボる (saboru) – To skip or cut class/work

“サボる” refers to the act of neglecting what one should do at work or school, meaning to be lazy, take a break, or be absent. In Japan, due to the strictness of labor culture and school education, some people choose to “saboru” to escape excessive stress or pressure. However, excessive “saboru” is considered socially undesirable.

The origin of the word “サボる” comes from the French word “saboter” which means “to sabotage”. Sabotage originally referred to strikes or sabotage on factory production lines, but during World War I, it began to be used by soldiers to disrupt the war effort. This French word was also adopted into English as “sabotage”. It is believed that the Japanese word “サボる” also originated from this French word through phonetic changes over time.

ダルい (darui) – Lazy or sluggish

The word “だるい” in Japanese refers to a state of feeling heavy and lethargic, both physically and mentally, usually due to exhaustion, stress, or physical discomfort. It is commonly used to express tiredness or a lack of energy caused by factors such as overwork, stress, or illness. For example, it can be used in a sentence like, “I had a busy day at work and came home late, so I feel really だるい”. In English, this can be translated as “Feeling heavy and lethargic, both physically and mentally, usually due to exhaustion, stress, or physical discomfort.”

ダサい (dasai) – Uncool or lame

“ダサい” is a Japanese slang term used to express a negative evaluation of something that is considered old-fashioned, outdated, lacking in style, or not in line with contemporary tastes. It can refer to fashion, vocabulary, behavior, and other aspects that are perceived as uncool or out of touch. The term is often used by those who are sensitive to trends and fashion, and what is considered “dasa” can vary depending on the era or generation. The closest English equivalents are “uncool” or “outdated.” However, the specific context should be taken into account when translating the term.

ググる (guguru) – To search on Google

“ググる” is a Japanese slang term that refers to searching for information using the Google search engine. Specifically, it means to look up information oneself when wanting to find out about something. For example, one might say “I looked up the meaning of this word by Googling it, and I understood.” “ググる” can be used not only when using Google, but also when using other search engines. In English, equivalent expressions include “to Google” and “to search on Google.”

ムカつく (mukatsuku) – To be annoyed or frustrated

“ムカつく” can be translated to English as “to be annoyed”, “to be irritated”, “to be angry” or similar expressions, which convey a sense of feeling unpleasant, frustrated or irritated. For example, you could say “I’m really annoyed at my coworker’s behavior” or “I’m so irritated by this situation.”

キモい (kimoi) – Gross, disgusting

“キモい” can be translated to “creepy,” “gross,” or “disgusting” in English, and it refers to an impression that is unpleasant and causes discomfort. It is used when someone’s appearance, behavior, or habits are deemed repulsive or when they emit an unpleasant odor or feeling. For example, it may be used to describe someone’s manner of speaking as creepy. However, since “キモい” carries a derogatory connotation, it is not appropriate to use it to refer to someone else.

めっちゃ (mettya) – Very, extremely

“めっちゃ” is a Japanese expression used for emphasis, meaning “very,” “extremely,” or “intensely.” For example, when someone says “めっちゃ疲れた” they mean that they are very tired. When they say “めっちゃ美味しい,” they mean that the food is extremely delicious. While English has emphasis expressions such as “very” or “extremely,” there is no single word that corresponds to the range of meanings conveyed by “めっちゃ.” Therefore, when translating, it is necessary to choose an appropriate expression depending on the context.

Be careful not to use any of these slangs towards people of higher status or authority!