Translation guide
Expressions of disgust or distaste in Japanese, ranging from childish to casual adult usage.
Express a feeling of disgust, similar to 'yuck' or 'ew' in English.
A common casual interjection of disgust, used by both genders. Similar to 'ew' or 'yuck'.
Yuck, this is rotten.
A more visceral expression of disgust, often in reaction to something gross or nauseating.
うえっ、何この臭い。
Ew, what's this smell?
Slang abbreviation of 気持ち悪い (kimochi warui), meaning 'gross' or 'disgusting'. Very common among younger speakers.
キモい！その虫、触らないで。
Gross! Don't touch that bug.
Literally 'feels bad', used for things that are gross, creepy, or make you feel sick. More descriptive than a simple interjection.
この料理、見た目が気持ち悪い。
This food looks disgusting.
Express disgust in a childish or cute way, often used by children or in a playful manner.
A childish word for 'dirty' or 'yucky', often used by young children or when talking to them.
ばっちいから、それを口に入れちゃダメ。
That's yucky, don't put it in your mouth.
An onomatopoeic expression of gagging or disgust, often used in a slightly exaggerated or childish way.
おえっ、この野菜苦い。
Yuck, this vegetable is bitter.
Express a stronger sense of disgust, revulsion, or feeling sick.
Literally 'I feel nauseous', used when something is so disgusting it makes you want to vomit.
その光景を見て吐き気がした。
I felt sick seeing that sight.
A versatile word meaning 'disgusting', 'irritating', or 'makes me sick'. Can refer to physical disgust or annoyance.
あの人の態度にむかつく。
That person's attitude makes me sick.
げっ is a general 'ew' for mild disgust. うえっ is more visceral, like a gag reflex. キモい is slang for 'gross' and can describe people, things, or situations.
There is no direct Japanese equivalent of 'yuck' that works in all contexts. Using the wrong expression can sound unnatural or childish. Choose based on the situation and your relationship with the listener.