Translation guide
The English word "insolent" describes rude and disrespectful behavior, often toward someone in authority. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; instead, different words and phrases capture specific nuances like cheekiness, arrogance, or impertinence. This guide helps you choose the right expression based on the situation.
Describing someone who talks back or acts disrespectfully in a bold, often childish way.
The most common and versatile word for 'cheeky' or 'impudent'. Often used for children or subordinates who act too big for their boots. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
あの子は本当に生意気だ。
That kid is really insolent.
生意気な口をきくな。
Don't talk back to me like that.
Literally 'to get on the diagram', meaning to get carried away and act insolently because of receiving too much favor or leniency.
ちょっと褒めたら図に乗ってこんなことを言い出した。
I praised him a little and he got carried away and started saying things like this.
A stronger, more emphatic version of 生意気, often used for someone younger or lower in status who is particularly cheeky.
小生意気なガキだな。
What a cheeky brat.
Describing behavior that shows a lack of respect, often in a more serious or formal context, such as towards a superior or in a hierarchical setting.
Means 'rude' or 'impolite', often implying a breach of etiquette. Stronger and more formal than 失礼. Can be used as a noun or na-adjective.
彼の態度は無礼極まりない。
His attitude is extremely insolent.
目上の人に無礼な口をきいてはいけない。
You must not speak insolently to your superiors.
Conveys arrogance and insolence, often with a sense of looking down on others. Used in formal or literary contexts.
Means 'arrogant' or 'haughty'. Focuses on the attitude of superiority rather than just rudeness. Often used for people in power.
Describing speech or behavior that is openly insulting and shows contempt.
Means 'insulting' or 'contemptuous'. Used for words or actions that demean someone. Stronger than 無礼.
彼は侮辱的な発言を繰り返した。
He repeatedly made insolent remarks.
A verb meaning 'to despise' or 'to scorn'. Describes the act of looking down on someone with contempt.
Describing someone who is insolent in a bold, shameless way, often without any sense of wrongdoing.
Means 'shameless', 'brazen', or 'impudent'. Used when someone acts without regard for others' feelings or social norms.
厚かましいお願いですが、もう一度チャンスをください。
This may sound insolent, but please give me another chance.
生意気 is the most common word for everyday cheekiness, especially from someone younger or lower in status. 無礼 is more formal and serious, implying a breach of etiquette. 厚かましい focuses on shamelessness and brazenness, often in social situations where someone is overly forward.
生意気な後輩に腹が立った。
I got annoyed at my cheeky junior colleague.
無礼な振る舞いは許されない。
Insolent behavior is not tolerated.
厚かましくも無料で手伝えと言ってきた。
He had the insolence to ask me to help for free.
English 'insolent' can sometimes be translated too harshly. In many situations, a softer word like 生意気 is more appropriate than 侮辱的, which implies a serious insult. Consider the relationship and context before choosing a word.
With an insolent attitude, he refused to follow orders.
傲慢な物言いが鼻につく。
His insolent way of talking is irritating.
彼は相手を蔑むような目で見た。
He looked at the other person with insolent contempt.
Similar to 厚かましい, but often implies a more persistent, annoying insolence. Can be translated as 'shameless' or 'impudent'.
あの図々しい態度には呆れた。
I was appalled by that insolent attitude.