Translation guide
A child who is overindulged and behaves badly as a result. In Japanese, this is expressed through specific nouns, adjectives, and descriptive phrases that capture the child's behavior or the parenting style.
The most common and direct way to refer to a spoiled child.
Literally 'a child who has been spoiled/indulged'. This is a straightforward and widely understood phrase.
彼は甘やかされた子だから、我慢ができない。
He's a spoiled child, so he can't be patient.
Means 'a selfish/self-centered child'. Focuses on the demanding behavior rather than the cause.
わがままな子に育ててはいけない。
You mustn't raise a spoiled child.
More colorful or specific expressions for a spoiled child, often used in conversation.
A child who throws tantrums or whines to get their way. Conveys the image of a stubborn, fussy child.
妹は駄々っ子で、いつも泣いている。
My little sister is a spoiled brat and is always crying.
A somewhat dated or humorous term for a rich, sheltered, and spoiled boy. Often used sarcastically.
彼は何も自分でできないおぼっちゃまだ。
He's a spoiled rich kid who can't do anything for himself.
Phrases that describe the act of spoiling a child or the resulting behavior, useful when you want to talk about the concept rather than label the child.
To raise a child by spoiling them. Describes the parenting style.
子供を甘やかして育てると、わがままになる。
If you raise a child by spoiling them, they become selfish.
To raise a child with overprotection, often leading to a spoiled or dependent child.
過保護に育てられた子は、社会に出て苦労する。
Children raised overprotectively struggle when they go out into the world.
甘やかされた子 emphasizes the cause (being spoiled by parents), while わがままな子 focuses on the child's selfish behavior. Use the former when you want to imply fault of the parents, and the latter when simply describing the child's personality.
甘えん坊 can be used in a positive, affectionate way to describe a child who is sweet and loves to cuddle. Context and tone determine whether it's critical or endearing.
A child who is overly dependent on affection and attention, often wanting to be pampered. Can be used affectionately or critically.
うちの子は甘えん坊で、すぐに抱っこをせがむ。
My child is a spoiled little thing and immediately asks to be held.