意地悪 (ijiwaru)
What does 意地悪 (ijiwaru) mean? 意地悪 (ijiwaru) is a Japanese strong that translates to “mean / malicious / bitchy / bully” in English.
Literal Translation
malicious intent
Meaning & Usage
"mean / malicious / bitchy / bully"
Person who enjoys causing suffering or is spiteful.
Examples in the Wild
意地悪しないで (Ijiwaru shinaide - Don't be mean/don't tease)
When to Use It
Context
- Informal settings where profanity is accepted
- Expressing strong frustration or emphasis
- Direct confrontation (use with caution)
Avoid
- Professional or formal settings
- Around elders or authority figures
- Job interviews, meetings, or customer-facing situations
Cultural Context
Can describe teasing ('ijiwaru shinaide' = don't tease me) or genuine malice. Women called 'ijiwaru' are seen as catty or bitchy. Less vulgar than sexual terms but strong moral judgment.
More in Japanese 🇯🇵
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“cunt / pussy”
Crude slang for female genitalia.
クズ (kuzu)
“trash / scum / piece of shit”
Denotes moral worthlessness. 'Kuzu otoko' (scum man) describes cheating, lying men.
うるさい (urusai)
“shut up / you're annoying / be quiet”
Literally 'noisy,' used to tell someone to be quiet.
糞 (kuso)
“shit / fuck / damn”
The Japanese 'f-word.' Functions as noun, exclamation, and adjective prefix. Most versatile swear word.
野郎 (yarou)
“bastard / jerk / guy (derogatory)”
Originally meant 'fellow' or 'guy,' now derogatory masculine suffix.
嘘つき (usotsuki)
“liar”
Person who tells lies.
クソ野郎 (kusoyarou)
“shithead / asshole / motherfucker”
Compound of 'kuso' (shit) and 'yarou' (bastard).
どけ (doke)
“get out of the way / move it / fuck off”
Rude imperative of 'doku' (to move aside).