Translation guide
The English word "wicked" has several distinct meanings: morally bad, playfully mischievous, excellent (slang), and more. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each nuance.
Describing a person, action, or thing that is evil, sinful, or morally wrong.
A common word for 'evil' or 'wickedness', often used for abstract evil or wicked acts.
彼は邪悪な心を持っている。
He has a wicked heart.
Means 'crafty and wicked', often used for cunning, unscrupulous behavior.
悪辣な手段で金を稼ぐ。
He earns money by wicked means.
Means 'heinous' or 'atrocious', emphasizing extreme wickedness.
極悪非道の犯罪者。
A heinously wicked criminal.
Literally 'black-bellied', meaning scheming, malicious, or wicked in a hidden way.
彼女は腹黒い性格だ。
She has a wicked personality.
Describing a person, smile, or sense of humor that is teasing, impish, or slightly naughty in a charming way.
Means 'mischievous' or 'impish', perfect for a playful, wicked grin or personality.
彼はいたずらっぽい笑みを浮かべた。
He gave a wicked grin.
Literally 'little devil-like', used for a coquettish, playfully wicked charm, often for women.
彼女の小悪魔的な魅力に惹かれた。
I was drawn to her wicked charm.
Means 'having a playful/mischievous streak', often used for a roguish personality.
彼のちゃめっ気のある冗談が好きだ。
I like his wicked sense of humor.
Used as slang, especially in New England or UK, to mean 'very good' or 'cool'.
General word for 'the best' or 'awesome', widely understood.
その映画、最高だった！
That movie was wicked!
Common word for 'amazing' or 'great', can be used in similar contexts.
Slang for 'awesome' or 'insane' (in a good way), very casual.
Describing something harsh, foul, or intense in a negative way, like a wicked storm or a wicked smell.
Used informally to describe something tough, harsh, or unfair.
Means 'tough', 'hard', or 'harsh', often used for difficult situations.
その仕事はきついよ。
That job is wicked hard.
Slang for 'dirty', 'nasty', or 'unfair', often used for underhanded tactics.
When 'wicked' is used as slang for 'excellent', do not use words like 邪悪 (evil). Instead, use general positive intensifiers like 最高 or すごい.
邪悪 is a straightforward 'evil', while 腹黒い implies hidden, scheming wickedness. Use 腹黒い for someone who seems nice but is actually malicious.
His guitar skills are wicked.
Isn't this song wicked?
あのやり方はえげつない。
That method is wicked.