Translation guide
The English word 'frustrated' covers a range of feelings from mild annoyance to deep despair. In Japanese, the best expression depends on the cause and intensity of the frustration. This guide helps learners choose the most natural option.
Expressing that something is bothersome, irritating, or not going as planned, leading to a feeling of frustration.
The most common and versatile way to say 'frustrated' in Japanese. It describes a state of irritation, impatience, or being on edge, often due to small, repeated annoyances.
渋滞でイライラした。
I got frustrated by the traffic jam.
His attitude frustrates me.
Describes the frustration of wanting something to happen faster or being unable to act, often due to circumstances beyond your control. It carries a sense of impatience and helplessness.
結果が出るまでがもどかしい。
It's frustrating waiting for the results.
彼の成長が遅くてもどかしい。
His slow progress is frustrating.
A slightly more formal or written synonym for イライラする. It means to be irritated or vexed.
彼の無責任さに苛立った。
I was frustrated by his irresponsibility.
Similar to もどかしい, but often implies frustration with someone's slow or clumsy actions. It can sound a bit more critical.
彼の説明はいつもじれったい。
His explanations are always frustrating (because they're slow or unclear).
Expressing frustration that stems from failing to achieve a goal, making a mistake, or things not turning out as hoped.
The key word for frustration mixed with regret, disappointment, or a sense of unfairness. Often used when you lose, fail, or are unable to do something despite your efforts.
試合に負けて悔しい。
I'm frustrated that I lost the match.
あと一点足りなくて悔しかった。
I was frustrated that I was just one point short.
More 'disappointing' than 'frustrated', but often used in similar situations. It's a milder, more polite way to express that something is unfortunate.
不合格で残念です。
I'm disappointed (frustrated) that I failed the exam.
Expressing a stronger, more profound frustration that borders on despair or feeling stuck in a hopeless situation.
Describes a deep, helpless frustration or sorrow that you can't do anything about. Often used for existential or emotional pain.
やるせない気持ちでいっぱいだ。
I'm filled with a deep frustration/sorrow.
A loanword phrase meaning 'frustration builds up'. Used when stress accumulates over time.
仕事でフラストレーションがたまっている。
I'm getting frustrated at work (frustration is building up).
Expressing frustration directed at one's own actions, abilities, or lack of progress.
Literally 'to get angry at oneself'. A common way to express self-directed frustration.
また同じミスをして、自分に腹が立つ。
I made the same mistake again and I'm frustrated with myself.
Means 'to fall into self-hatred'. A stronger expression for when frustration with oneself becomes intense self-loathing.
何もできない自分に自己嫌悪に陥った。
I felt frustrated/self-hating for not being able to do anything.
These three cover most uses of 'frustrated'. Use イライラする for irritation at a situation or person. Use もどかしい when you're impatient because things aren't moving fast enough. Use 悔しい when you're frustrated by a personal failure or loss.
電車が遅れてイライラする。
I'm frustrated because the train is late. (irritation)
彼の返事が遅くてもどかしい。
His slow reply is frustrating. (impatience)
試験に落ちて悔しい。
I'm frustrated I failed the exam. (regret/disappointment)
The English word 'frustrated' is often overused by learners. In Japanese, it's more natural to specify the type of frustration. Using フラストレーション directly can sound like a technical term or loanword and is less common in everyday speech.