Translation guide
The English word 'mad' has several distinct meanings. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each sense, from anger to insanity to enthusiasm.
Expressing that someone is angry, annoyed, or furious.
The most common and neutral way to say 'mad' meaning angry. It can be used in most situations.
彼はまだ怒っている。
He is still mad.
そんなに怒らないで。
Don't be so mad.
Literally 'stomach stands up', a common phrase for feeling angry or offended. Slightly more emotional than 怒っている.
彼の態度には腹が立つ。
His attitude makes me mad.
Slang for feeling irritated or pissed off. Very casual, used among friends.
あいつの言い方、マジでムカつく。
The way he talks really makes me mad.
Describing someone as mentally ill, irrational, or wildly foolish.
Direct translation for 'mad' as in insane. Can be used for people or situations.
彼は完全に狂っている。
He is completely mad.
Literally 'mind goes mad', often used in phrases like 'drive someone mad'.
その騒音で気が狂いそうだ。
That noise is driving me mad.
Slang for 'crazy' or 'nuts'. Very informal.
あの計画はイカれてるよ。
That plan is mad.
Expressing that someone is very keen on or obsessed with an activity or thing.
Pattern meaning 'crazy about' or 'absorbed in'. Replace ~ with the object of enthusiasm.
彼女はゲームに夢中だ。
She is mad about video games.
Casual phrase meaning 'to be hooked on' or 'addicted to' something fun.
最近、ヨガにハマっている。
I've been mad about yoga lately.
Describing an action or idea as stupid, rash, or ill-advised.
Adjective meaning reckless, foolhardy. Often used for plans or actions.
それは無謀な計画だ。
That's a mad plan.
Means absurd, ridiculous, or stupid. Stronger than 無謀な.
そんな馬鹿げたことをするな。
Don't do such a mad thing.
Describing hurried, chaotic, or frantic behavior.
Adjective for a busy, hectic, or frantic situation.
今日は本当に慌ただしい一日だった。
It was a mad day today.
Means 'in a great hurry', often used for rushed actions.
彼は大急ぎで出て行った。
He left in a mad rush.
In English, 'mad' can describe a rabid animal, but in Japanese, use 狂犬病 (きょうけんびょう) for rabies. 狂った犬 may be understood but is not the standard term.
怒っている is a state of being angry, while 腹が立つ focuses on the feeling of anger welling up. 腹が立つ is often used for momentary irritation.
彼は怒っている。
He is angry (right now).
彼の言葉に腹が立った。
I got mad at his words.