Translation and Meaning of: 図々しい - zuuzuushii

If you have ever studied Japanese or watched an anime, you may have come across the word 図々しい (ずうずうしい). It is used to describe behavior that, in English, would be something like "brazen" or "shameless." But is that all there is to it? In this article, we will explore the full meaning, origin, and how this word is used in everyday Japanese. Additionally, we will provide tips to memorize it and understand its cultural significance.

Meaning and translation of 図々しい

The word 図々しい (ずうずうしい) describes someone who acts without regard for others, boldly crossing social boundaries. It can be translated as "bold," "insolent," or "shameless." However, it carries a stronger nuance than these translations suggest, implying a deliberate lack of respect.

For example, if someone cuts in line without asking for permission or appropriates something that is not theirs without remorse, a Japanese person might use ずうずうしい to describe this attitude. It is a word that appears in contexts where education and respect for social rules are blatantly violated.

Origin and composition of kanjis

The term is written with the kanji 図 (zu), which means "plan" or "map," repeated twice. The exact origin is not entirely clear, but one theory suggests that the repetition reinforces the idea of someone who "over-plans" for their own benefit, ignoring others. Another interpretation relates the first 図 to "intention" and the second to "action," forming the notion of acting in a calculated and selfish manner.

It is worth highlighting that the reading ずうずうしい is a form of ateji, where the kanjis do not follow the usual pronunciation. This occurs in various Japanese words, especially those that carry emotional or subjective nuances.

Cultural usage and frequency in Japan

In Japan, where social harmony (和 - wa) is highly valued, being called ずうずうしい is a serious criticism. The word is used in situations where someone clearly disrespects unwritten norms, such as speaking loudly in quiet places or demanding favors without reciprocity.

Although it is not a rare word, it is also not among the most frequent in everyday life. This is because the Japanese tend to avoid direct confrontations. When used, it usually comes in a tone of disapproval or in situations where patience has run out. In animes and dramas, it appears more in conflict scenes or comedies that exaggerate personality traits.

Tips for memorizing and using correctly

One way to remember ずうずうしい is to associate the sound "zu zu" with something repetitive and annoying, like someone insisting on inappropriate behavior. Another tip is to think of the repetition of the kanji 図 as a reinforcement of the insistent and inconvenient attitude.

Avoid using this word lightly, as it carries a strong negative weight. If you want to express something similar but less charged, words like 厚かましい (あつかましい - "audacious") or 生意気 (なまいき - "cheeky") may be alternatives, depending on the context.

Vocabulary

Expand your vocabulary with related words:

Synonyms and similar words

• 厚かましい (atsukamashii) - Impudent; bold, who is not ashamed to ask or demand something.
• 生意気な (naamiki na) - Arrogant; with a challenging attitude, showing excessive confidence.
• ずうずうしい (zuuzuu shii) - Shameless; someone who is bold or unashamed in a situation.
• ほら吹きな (horafuki na) - Fanfarone; someone who makes grand claims or boasts in an exaggerated manner.
• おおげさな (oogesa na) - Exaggerated; tending to increase the importance of something in a dramatic way.

図々しい

Romaji: zuuzuushii
Kana: ずうずうしい
Type: adjective
L: jlpt-n2, jlpt-n1

Translation / Meaning: Impertinent; shameless

Meaning in English: impudent;shameless

Definition: Say or do whatever you want without taking into account the feelings or position of others. An attitude that lacks common sense and courtesy.

Example Sentences - (図々しい) zuuzuushii

See below some example sentences:

図々しい人は嫌われる。

Zuzushii hito wa kirawareru

Shameless people are hated.

I hate people who are attracted.

• 図々しい - adjective meaning "brazen", "cheeky", "shameless".
• 人 - noun meaning "person".
• は - particle that marks the subject of the sentence.
• 嫌われる - verb in the passive form meaning "to be hated", "to be detested".