Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'impolite' depends on whether you're describing rude behavior, a lack of manners, or a breach of etiquette. The most common word is 失礼 (shitsurei), but other terms like 無礼 (burei) and 不作法 (busahō) carry different nuances. This guide helps you choose the right expression for the situation.
Describing actions or speech that are rude or show a lack of respect.
The most common and versatile word for 'impolite' or 'rude'. It can describe behavior, speech, or a person. Often used in everyday situations.
彼の態度は失礼だった。
His attitude was impolite.
そんなことを言うのは失礼です。
It's impolite to say such a thing.
A stronger, more formal word for 'rude' or 'impolite', often implying a deliberate lack of respect. Common in written or formal contexts.
彼の無礼な振る舞いに怒りを感じた。
I felt anger at his rude behavior.
Refers to bad manners or a breach of etiquette, often in social situations. Less common in casual speech.
食事中の不作法は避けるべきだ。
You should avoid bad manners during meals.
Describing a person or action that doesn't follow social rules of politeness.
Literally 'doesn't know manners'. A common way to say someone is impolite or ill-mannered.
彼は礼儀を知らない人だ。
He is an impolite person.
Similar to 不作法, meaning ill-mannered or lacking etiquette. Can be used interchangeably but slightly more common in speech.
無作法な客が来て困った。
A rude customer came and it was troublesome.
Saying that something is not sufficiently polite, often in language use.
A straightforward way to say 'not polite'. Used when something lacks the expected level of politeness.
その言い方は丁寧ではない。
That way of speaking is impolite.
Means 'rude' or 'impolite', often used when someone is being disrespectful. Can also be used as an interjection ('Excuse me!').
失敬なやつだな。
What a rude guy.
失礼 (shitsurei) is the everyday word for 'impolite' and can be used in most situations. 無礼 (burei) is stronger and more formal, often implying intentional disrespect. Use 失礼 for general rudeness and 無礼 when you want to emphasize a serious lack of respect.
When you want to say 'Excuse me' or 'I'm sorry for being rude', use 失礼します (shitsurei shimasu) or 失礼しました (shitsurei shimashita). The adjective 失礼な (shitsurei na) is only for describing others' behavior, not your own.