Translation guide
Describes a weak, cowardly, or timid person. Japanese has many colorful terms ranging from mild teasing to harsh insults.
To call someone a wimp in a general sense, implying lack of courage or physical weakness.
Literally 'weak bug'. A common, slightly childish term for a coward or weakling. Can be used teasingly or seriously.
To describe someone who is physically weak, puny, or lacking strength.
Describes physical weakness or frailty. Can be used for people who are thin and weak-looking.
To describe someone who is shy, timid, or easily scared.
There is no single perfect equivalent. Choose based on whether you mean cowardly, physically weak, or timid. Using the wrong term can sound unnatural or overly harsh.
弱虫 is more childish and teasing, while 臆病者 is a serious accusation of cowardice. 弱虫 can be used among friends; 臆病者 is heavier.
He's such a wimp; he can't ride roller coasters.
Means 'coward'. More formal and direct than 弱虫. Often used in serious contexts.
臆病者には冒険はできない。
A coward can't go on adventures.
Literally 'missing hips', implying spinelessness. A strong insult for a coward or someone who lacks guts.
あんな腰抜けに何ができる？
What can a spineless wimp like that do?
Means 'gutless' or 'spineless'. Emphasizes lack of willpower or spirit. Somewhat old-fashioned.
彼は意気地なしだから、反論もしない。
He's such a wimp he won't even talk back.
彼はひ弱で、重い荷物が持てない。
He's so puny he can't carry heavy luggage.
Means 'frail' or 'delicate', often used for women or children. Implies a need for protection.
彼女はか弱い少女だった。
She was a frail little girl.
Means 'weak' or 'soft', often used for men who lack toughness or masculinity. Can be derogatory.
軟弱な男は嫌いだ。
I hate wimpy guys.
Means 'scaredy-cat' or someone who is easily frightened. Common in casual speech.
うちの犬は怖がりで、雷が鳴ると震える。
Our dog is a wimp; he trembles when it thunders.
Means 'timid person' or 'coward'. Emphasizes a small, fearful heart. Can be used self-deprecatingly.
私は小心者だから、人前で話すのが苦手だ。
I'm a wimp, so I'm bad at speaking in public.