Translation guide
Insolence refers to rude, disrespectful, or arrogant behavior, often toward someone in authority. In Japanese, expressing this concept depends heavily on the relationship, context, and the specific nuance—whether it's cheeky backtalk, outright contempt, or arrogant overconfidence.
Describing insolent words or actions that show a lack of respect, especially toward superiors or elders.
The most direct and common word for rudeness or insolence. Can be used for both speech and behavior. Often used in formal or written contexts.
彼の無礼な態度には我慢できない。
I can't stand his insolent attitude.
そんな無礼な口の利き方は許されない。
Such insolent speech is not tolerated.
Literally 'lack of propriety.' Commonly used for rudeness or impoliteness, but can be milder than 無礼. Often used in everyday situations.
失礼なことを言ってしまった。
I said something insolent/rude.
A stronger, more literary term for insolence or arrogance, often implying defiance or haughtiness. Used in formal writing or criticism.
彼の不遜な態度は上司の怒りを買った。
His insolent attitude angered his boss.
Describing insolence that is more like sass or cheekiness, often from a child or subordinate.
Describes someone (often young) who is cheeky, impertinent, or full of themselves. Very common in everyday speech.
生意気な口を利くな。
Don't talk back to me like that (you insolent brat).
あの子は本当に生意気だ。
That kid is really insolent/cheeky.
A slightly stronger or more emphatic version of 生意気, often used for someone who is young and acts too big for their britches.
Describing insolence that stems from arrogance or an inflated sense of self-importance.
Means arrogant or haughty. Often used for insolent behavior that comes from a sense of superiority.
彼の傲慢な態度に皆が腹を立てた。
Everyone was angered by his insolent/arrogant attitude.
Arrogant and overbearing, often used for someone who acts high-handedly. Slightly more formal than 傲慢.
Describing insolence that involves open defiance or disrespect toward rules, superiors, or institutions.
Means rebellious or defiant. Often used for insolent behavior that challenges authority.
反抗的な態度を取る生徒が増えている。
There are more students with an insolent/defiant attitude.
Disrespect or irreverence, especially toward a superior, deity, or the emperor. Strongly formal and often historical.
無礼 (burei) is stronger and more explicitly about insolence or disrespect, while 失礼 (shitsurei) is broader and can simply mean 'rude' or 'impolite.' 失礼 is also used in set phrases like 失礼します (excuse me). For clear insolence, 無礼 is more precise.
English 'insolence' often implies a power dynamic (e.g., student to teacher). In Japanese, the appropriate word depends on the relationship and the specific behavior. Using 無礼 for a child's cheekiness may sound too stiff; 生意気 is more natural.
小生意気なことを言うんじゃない。
Don't you get cheeky with me.
Refers to spiteful or insolent remarks, often said to provoke or annoy. Literally 'hateful mouth.'
彼はいつも憎まれ口を叩く。
He always makes insolent remarks.
横柄な物言いが鼻につく。
His insolent/arrogant way of speaking is irritating.
Describes someone who is shamelessly bold or impudent, often in a way that is insolent or presumptuous.
図々しいお願いで恐縮ですが。
I'm sorry for the insolent/presumptuous request.
He was arrested for insolence (lese-majesty).