ブス (busu)

bɯ̟ᵝsɯ̟ᵝinsult, appearance, gendered

What does ブス (busu) mean? ブス (busu) is a Japanese severe that translates to “ugly / hideous / bitch (looks-based)” in English.

ugly woman

01

"ugly / hideous / bitch (looks-based)"

Harsh insult specifically targeting women's appearance.

ブスだね (Busu da ne - You're ugly)

Context

  • Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
  • Only among very close friends who share this register
  • Direct confrontation (use with caution)

Avoid

  • Professional or formal settings
  • Around elders or authority figures
  • Public spaces — will cause genuine offense
  • Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations

Cultural Context

Deeply hurtful, attacks physical appearance directly. 'Debusu' (fat + ugly) is compound form. 'Buotoko' is male equivalent but less common. Can destroy self-esteem; considered cruel even among friends.

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