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B1 adjective #4,000 most common 13 min read

煩い

urusai Top 4,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 煩い in 30 Seconds

Explanation 煩い in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners encounter 'urusai' primarily as a simple adjective meaning 'noisy.' It is one of the first words used to describe environments, alongside 'shizuka' (quiet). At this stage, students use it in basic 'A wa B desu' structures, such as 'Terebi ga urusai desu' (The TV is noisy). The focus is on physical sound volume. A1 learners also learn it as a standalone exclamation in very informal contexts, often through media, though they are cautioned to use it sparingly because of its bluntness. The primary goal is to distinguish between 'noisy' (negative) and 'lively' (nigiyaka), though many A1 students initially use 'urusai' for both. Understanding that 'urusai' is an i-adjective and follows the basic conjugation (urusai -> urusakunai) is the main grammatical hurdle. Teachers often introduce it during lessons about the home or neighborhood, where students might describe their neighbors or the street outside their window. It is a high-frequency word that helps beginners express discomfort in their immediate surroundings.

At the A2 level, the use of 'urusai' expands to include basic descriptions of people's behavior. A2 learners start to use it to describe a person who talks too much or a sibling who is being bothersome. The grammatical range increases to include the adverbial form 'urusaku,' as in 'urusaku shinaide kudasai' (please don't be noisy/don't make a racket). Students at this level begin to understand that 'urusai' is not just about decibels but also about 'annoyance.' They might use it to describe a ringing phone or a barking dog that won't stop. Socially, A2 learners are taught the importance of politeness and are warned that saying 'urusai!' to a stranger is a major breach of etiquette. They learn to replace it with 'shizuka ni shite kudasai' in public. The connection between 'urusai' and the feeling of being 'bothered' (meiwaku) is introduced, helping students navigate social harmony in Japan. They also start to recognize the word in casual speech, such as anime, where the final 'i' is often dropped or changed to 'ee' for emphasis.

At the B1 level, learners must master the 'fastidious' or 'picky' meaning of 'urusai.' This is a significant jump from the basic 'noisy' definition. A B1 student should be able to say 'Kare wa coffee ni urusai' (He is picky about coffee) or 'Kanojo wa fuku ni urusai' (She is picky about clothes). This usage requires the particle 'ni' and shifts the word's nuance from a simple complaint to a description of someone's standards or expertise. B1 learners also start to see 'urusai' in compound words like 'kuchi-urusai' (nagging/talkative). They are expected to understand the social hierarchy involved in using the word; for example, knowing that a boss might be 'urusai' about deadlines, but a subordinate should never call the boss 'urusai' to their face. The ability to use 'urusai' to describe a 'busy' visual design or a 'judgmental' society ('seken ga urusai') also begins at this stage. B1 learners use the word to express more complex social frustrations and personal standards, moving beyond the physical environment into the realm of personality and social expectations.

At the B2 level, 'urusai' is used with a high degree of nuance and rhetorical flair. Learners understand its use in literature and formal critiques to describe something that is 'cluttered' or 'excessive.' They can distinguish between 'urusai' and its more formal synonyms like 'sawagashii' (objective noise) or 'souzoushii' (commotion) in writing. A B2 learner might use 'urusai' metaphorically to describe a 'noisy' conscience or the 'noise' of conflicting information in a news report. They are also familiar with the kanji '煩い' and its more rare ateji '五月蝿い,' understanding the cultural reference to 'May flies.' At this level, the student can use 'urusai' in complex sentences involving conditional forms (e.g., 'urusaku iwarenakereba, yatta no ni' - I would have done it if I hadn't been nagged). They also understand the irony of using 'urusai' in a self-deprecating way, such as 'watashi, urusai deshou?' (I'm being annoying, aren't I?). The focus is on selecting 'urusai' or an alternative based on the desired emotional impact on the listener.

At the C1 level, the learner explores the deep etymological roots and the philosophical implications of 'urusai.' They understand it as a word that describes the 'piercing' of one's peace by an external force. C1 learners can engage in discussions about the 'right to silence' in Japanese cities, using 'urusai' to describe the 'acoustic pollution' of election trucks or store announcements. They are adept at using the word in sophisticated social commentary, such as 'Heisei no urusai kensou' (The noisy bustle of the Heisei era). In literary analysis, they can identify how 'urusai' is used by authors to characterize a person's overbearing nature or a claustrophobic environment. C1 learners also master the most subtle uses of the word, such as 'mimi ni urusai' (tired of hearing the same thing) or 'me ni urusai' (visually distracting). They can navigate the finest lines of politeness, using 'urusai' only when the specific 'annoyance' nuance is required, and effortlessly switching to 'kibishii' or 'komakai' in professional or academic discourse to maintain perfect register.

At the C2 level, 'urusai' is a tool for masterful expression. The learner uses it with the same precision as a native speaker, often employing it for humor, irony, or sharp social critique. They understand the word's historical evolution from 'ure-sashi' and can discuss how its meaning has shifted across centuries of Japanese literature. A C2 learner might use 'urusai' to describe the 'noise' of modern digital life—the constant pings of notifications and the clutter of social media. They can use the word in high-level debates about aesthetics, arguing that a certain art piece is 'urusai' (too busy) in a way that detracts from its beauty. At this level, the learner is also familiar with regional variations in how 'urusai' is used or replaced by local dialects. They can write essays or give speeches where 'urusai' is used as a central motif for 'distraction' or 'interference' in human relationships. Their mastery is such that they can use the most informal variants (like 'urusee') in a scripted or performative context to perfectly capture a specific character or mood without ever appearing uneducated.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

煩い in 30 Seconds

Urusai means noisy, loud, or annoying. It is an i-adjective often used to complain about sounds or bothersome behavior.
Beyond noise, it describes someone who is picky or fastidious about specific things like food, time, or fashion.
In casual speech, 'Urusai!' is a common way to say 'Shut up!' but it is considered rude in formal settings.
It can also describe visually cluttered designs or the 'noise' of society's judgmental opinions.

The Japanese word 煩い (うるさい - urusai) is a multi-faceted i-adjective that every learner must master, as it permeates daily life from casual complaints to high-level critiques. At its most fundamental level, it describes a physical state of being noisy or loud. However, its semantic range extends far beyond decibel levels. It frequently describes an internal state of being annoying, bothersome, or irritating. When a person is described as うるさい, it doesn't just mean they are shouting; it often means they are naggy, overly critical, or meddling in affairs that don't concern them. In a more positive or neutral light, especially at the B1 level and above, you will encounter it used to describe someone who is picky, fastidious, or a connoisseur regarding specific details, such as coffee, fashion, or rules.

Acoustic Noise: Refers to loud music, construction work, or a crowded room where the volume is uncomfortable. For example, '工事の音がうるさい' (The construction sound is noisy).
Emotional Irritation: Refers to a person who talks too much or gives unwanted advice. Often used as an interjection 'うるさい！' meaning 'Shut up!' or 'Leave me alone!'
Fastidiousness: Refers to being particular about quality. '彼はコーヒーの味にうるさい' (He is very picky about the taste of coffee).

隣の部屋が夜中まで煩いので、全然眠れませんでした。

Translation: The room next door was so noisy until midnight that I couldn't sleep at all.

In Japanese society, which values wa (harmony) and quietude in public spaces, calling something 'urusai' is a significant statement. It indicates a breach of social boundaries. When used toward a person, it is quite direct and can be seen as rude depending on the hierarchy. However, in the context of 'expertise' (e.g., 'He is urusai about wine'), it acknowledges a level of sophisticated strictness. This duality makes it a powerful word for expressing personal boundaries and standards. Understanding the shift from 'loud' to 'strict' is key to reaching B1 proficiency.

母は礼儀に煩いので、食事のマナーには気を付けています。

Translation: My mother is very strict (picky) about etiquette, so I am careful with my table manners.

Historically, the word is believed to have derived from 'ure' (pain/grief) and 'sashi' (piercing), suggesting something that 'pierces the heart with pain.' This explains why the word carries such a strong emotional weight compared to the English word 'noisy.' It isn't just about sound waves; it is about the mental distress caused by an external stimulus. Whether it's a buzzing fly, a nagging boss, or a loud television, 'urusai' captures that sense of being overwhelmed by unwanted input.

「うるさい！黙れ！」と彼は怒鳴った。

Translation: "Shut up! Be quiet!" he yelled.

Visual Clutter: Rarely, it can describe a design that is too busy or cluttered. 'このデザインは色が多すぎて、ちょっとうるさいですね' (This design has too many colors; it's a bit too much/busy).
Social Pressure: Refers to the 'noise' of society's opinions. '世間の目がうるさい' (The eyes of the world are annoying/judgmental).

Using 煩い (urusai) correctly requires an understanding of i-adjective conjugation and the nuances of social context. As an i-adjective, it follows standard patterns: urusai (present), urusakunai (negative), urusakatta (past), and urusakunakatta (past negative). Because it describes a state that is often negative, you must be careful not to offend. When describing a situation as noisy, it is relatively safe. However, when describing a person, it is a direct criticism. To soften the blow in professional settings, Japanese speakers often use more formal alternatives like sawagashii or souzoushii, or they use the 'picky' meaning to imply high standards rather than mere annoyance.

Direct Description: Structure: [Subject] + ga + urusai. '外がうるさい' (It is noisy outside). This is the most common use for environmental sounds.
Targeted Fastidiousness: Structure: [Topic] + ni + urusai. '彼は時間にうるさい' (He is very strict about time). The particle 'ni' indicates the specific area of strictness.
Adverbial Form: Structure: urusaku + [Verb]. 'うるさく言う' (To nag/to say things annoyingly). '子供たちがうるさく騒いでいる' (The children are making a noisy racket).

そんなにうるさく言わなくても分かっています。

Translation: I understand even if you don't nag me so much.

In the context of 'pickiness,' it's important to distinguish between being a 'snob' and being 'knowledgeable.' If you say someone is 'wine ni urusai,' you are usually complimenting their refined palate, though you might also be implying they are hard to please. This usage is very common in B1 level conversations about hobbies and preferences. On the other hand, if you use it in the negative 'urusakunai,' it can mean 'I'm not picky' or 'It's not loud.' For example, '私は食べ物の好き嫌いについてはうるさくないです' (I'm not picky about what I eat/dislike).

この掃除機は音がうるさくないので、夜でも使えます。

Translation: This vacuum cleaner isn't noisy, so you can use it even at night.

Finally, consider the degree. You can add adverbs like 'sugoku' (very), 'chotto' (a bit), or 'kanari' (quite) to modify the intensity. 'Chotto urusai' is a very common way to politely complain about noise to a neighbor or colleague. 'Sugoku urusai' is a much stronger expression of distress. In manga and casual speech, you might see 'urusai-n-da-yo!' which adds emphasis and a slightly aggressive tone, often translated as 'Shut the hell up!'

あまりうるさくすると、近所の人に怒られますよ。

Translation: If you make too much noise, the neighbors will get mad at you.

Comparative Use: 'A yori B no hou ga urusai' (B is noisier than A). '都会は田舎よりうるさい' (The city is noisier than the countryside).
Causative Context: 'Urusaku saseru' (To make something noisy). Usually used in the negative: 'Urusaku shinaide' (Don't be noisy/Be quiet).

You will encounter 煩い (urusai) in almost every corner of Japanese life, but the tone shifts dramatically based on the setting. In the domestic sphere, it is the quintessential word for family bickering. Children might complain that their parents' nagging is 'urusai,' while parents tell their children to stop being 'urusai' when they play too loudly. It is the sound of daily life and friction. In public transportation, you'll see signs or hear announcements reminding passengers that talking on mobile phones is 'urusai' (though they often use the word 'meiwaku' or 'nuisance' to be more formal). Hearing someone call out 'urusai!' on a train is a sign of extreme tension.

At the Office: Colleagues might whisper about a boss who is 'shimekiry ni urusai' (strict about deadlines). Here, it's not about volume, but about the 'noise' of constant reminders and high expectations.
In Restaurants: A food critic or a 'foodie' friend might be described as 'aji ni urusai' (picky about taste). If they find a hair in their soup, they might make a 'noisy' complaint (kujou).
Pop Culture (Anime/Drama): The iconic 'Urusai, urusai, urusai!' (Shut up, shut up, shut up!) is a common trope for tsundere characters or frustrated protagonists. It's used to hide embarrassment or genuine anger.

「最近の若者はマナーにうるさい」と老人が嘆いた。

Translation: "Young people these days are [unexpectedly] strict about manners," the old man lamented.

In the world of craftsmanship and hobbies, 'urusai' is almost a badge of honor. A master carpenter is 'ki no shitsu ni urusai' (picky about the quality of wood). A professional gamer might be 'fureemu-reeto ni urusai' (picky about frame rates). In these contexts, it signifies a deep, sometimes obsessive, knowledge. You'll hear this in documentaries (documentary programs) or interviews with experts. It implies that the person has such high standards that even minor flaws 'make noise' in their mind, preventing them from being satisfied.

あの先生は出席に関して非常にうるさいです。

Translation: That teacher is extremely strict regarding attendance.

Lastly, you'll hear it in marketing and reviews. A product might be advertised as 'oto ga urusakunai' (quiet sound), which is a major selling point for appliances like washing machines or hair dryers. On review sites like Amazon Japan or Tabelog, users often write 'mise ga urusai' (the shop/restaurant is noisy) as a reason for a low rating. Conversely, a quiet, 'urusakunai' atmosphere is often praised as 'ochitsuita' (calm/settled). Understanding 'urusai' helps you navigate the social expectations of volume and behavior in Japan.

蝉の声がうるさくて、テレビの音が聞こえません。

Translation: The cicadas are so noisy that I can't hear the TV.

Environmental Complaints: 'Kouji no oto' (construction sound), 'Hikouki' (airplanes), 'Kousei' (loudspeakers for elections).
Personality Traits: 'Kuchi-urusai' (talkative/nagging), 'Mimi-urusai' (tired of hearing something), 'Me-ni-urusai' (visually distracting/glaring).

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make with 煩い (urusai) is using it too broadly or too harshly. In English, 'noisy' is often a neutral description of an environment. In Japanese, 'urusai' almost always carries a nuance of personal discomfort or annoyance. If you tell a host 'urusai desu ne' (it's noisy, isn't it?) about their party, you aren't just commenting on the atmosphere; you are implying that the noise is bothering you personally, which can be interpreted as a request for them to quiet down or as a criticism of their hospitality. For a more neutral observation, words like nigiyaka (lively) are often better suited.

Confusing with 'Nigiyaka': 'Nigiyaka' (lively/bustling) is positive. 'Urusai' (noisy) is negative. Saying a festival is 'urusai' suggests you hate the noise, whereas 'nigiyaka' suggests you are enjoying the energy.
Using 'Urusai' to Superiors: Never tell a boss or teacher 'urusai' when they are giving instructions. Even if you mean they are being 'strict' (the fastidious meaning), 'urusai' is too informal and carries a 'shut up' nuance. Use 'kibishii' (strict) instead.
Incorrect Conjugation: Because it ends in 'ai,' learners sometimes treat it like a 'na-adjective.' It is an 'i-adjective.' 'Urusai na hito' is wrong; it must be 'urusai hito.'

× 先生、説明がうるさいです。
○ 先生、説明が少し細かいです（または、少し声が大きいです）。

Explanation: Telling a teacher their explanation is 'urusai' is very rude. Use 'komakai' (detailed/fine) or comment on the volume specifically.

Another mistake involves the 'picky' meaning. While 'urusai' is common, learners often forget the particle ni. If you say 'Kare wa aji ga urusai,' it sounds like his 'taste' itself is making a loud noise. You must say 'Kare wa aji ni urusai' (He is picky about taste). Additionally, avoid using it for things that are just 'difficult.' If a math problem is hard, it's 'muzukashii,' not 'urusai,' unless the teacher is being 'urusai' about the way you solve it.

× 漢字のテストはうるさいです。
○ 漢字のテストは難しいです。

Explanation: A test isn't 'noisy' unless it's an oral exam with everyone shouting. You mean 'difficult' (muzukashii).

Finally, be careful with the 'shut up' usage. In English, 'be quiet' can be a gentle request. In Japanese, 'urusai!' is almost always an exclamation of anger or sharp annoyance. If you want someone to be quiet politely, use 'shizuka ni shite kudasai' (please be quiet). Using 'urusai' in a classroom or library will make you seem aggressive or poorly socialized. It is a word that requires a high degree of situational awareness—a core skill for the B1 learner.

× 図書館ではうるさいしないでください。
○ 図書館では静かにしてください。

Explanation: 'Urusai shinaide' is grammatically awkward (should be 'urusaku shinaide') and too harsh for a library setting.

Confusion with 'Sawagashii': 'Sawagashii' is more objective and often used for social unrest or a busy street. 'Urusai' is personal annoyance.
Kanji Misreading: Don't confuse the kanji 煩 (wazura-u / urusa-i) with 頻 (hin - frequent). They look similar but have no relation.

To truly master 煩い (urusai), you must know when not to use it. Japanese has a rich vocabulary for sound and behavior, and choosing the right word shows sophistication. While 'urusai' is the 'go-to' word for B1 learners, advancing to B2 and C1 requires using more specific synonyms. For example, if you are describing a bustling, happy crowd, 賑やか (nigiyaka) is the correct choice. If the noise is chaotic or implies a lack of order, 騒がしい (sawagashii) is better. If the noise is physically painful or jarring to the ears, 耳障り (mimizawari) is the most evocative term.

騒がしい (Sawagashii): More objective and formal than 'urusai.' Used for a noisy classroom, a busy street, or social unrest. '世間が騒がしい' (The world is in an uproar).
喧しい (Yakamashii): Often used to describe a strict person or a loud, clashing noise. It has a slightly old-fashioned or formal feel compared to 'urusai.' '小言が喧しい' (Nagging is loud/persistent).
騒々しい (Souzoushii): Describes a state of commotion or hullabaloo. Used for environments where many things are happening at once. '工事現場が騒々しい' (The construction site is noisy/chaotic).

パーティー会場はとても賑やかで楽しかったです。

Translation: The party venue was very lively and fun. (Using 'nigiyaka' instead of 'urusai' makes it positive).

When it comes to the 'picky' meaning of 'urusai,' there are several alternatives that shift the focus from 'annoyance' to 'quality.' 凝り性 (korishou) describes someone who is obsessive about their hobbies in a focused way. 拘りがある (kodawari ga aru) is a very common, often positive way to say someone has strong preferences or high standards. For example, 'Kono mise wa dashi ni kodawari ga aru' (This shop is particular about its broth). Using 'urusai' here would sound more like the shop is 'nagging' the broth, which doesn't make sense, or that the owner is a difficult person.

彼はファッションに強いこだわりを持っています。

Translation: He has a strong obsession (positive pickiness) with fashion.

In a professional context, if you need to describe a supervisor who is very strict about details, use 几帳面 (kichoumen) (methodical/punctilious) or 厳しい (kibishii) (strict). These words acknowledge the professional standard without the negative emotional baggage of 'urusai.' Conversely, if you want to describe a noise that is specifically 'buzzing' like an insect, the onomatopoeia ブンブン (bun-bun) or ガヤガヤ (gaya-gaya) (the sound of a crowd talking) can be used to add more color to your Japanese. Mastering these distinctions will help you move from a basic understanding to a natural, nuanced use of the language.

都会の喧騒を離れて、田舎でゆっくり過ごしたい。

Translation: I want to leave the hustle and bustle (kensou) of the city and relax in the countryside.

耳障り (Mimizawari): Literally 'ear-hindering.' Used for sounds that are unpleasant or grating, like a screeching violin or a harsh voice.
口やかましい (Kuchiyakamashii): A more formal or intense version of 'kuchi-urusai' (nagging). Often used for people who are constantly scolding others.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The ateji (kanji used for sound) for urusai is 五月蝿い, which literally means 'May flies.' It refers to the annoying buzzing of flies that appears in the fifth month of the lunar calendar.

Pronunciation Guide

UK u.ɾu.sa.i

US u.ɾu.sa.i

Pitch accent: Atamadaka (High on the first syllable: Úrusai). In some dialects, it may vary.

Rhymes With

Amai (sweet) Karai (spicy) Itai (painful) Arai (rough) Osoi (slow) Semai (narrow) Kowai (scary) Tsurai (painful/bitter)

Common Errors

Stressing the 'sai' like the English word 'sigh'.
Pronouncing the 'r' as an English 'r' instead of a Japanese tap.
Making the 'u' sounds too long like 'oo'.
Treating it as a three-syllable word instead of four (u-ru-sa-i).
Confusing the pitch accent with 'shizuka'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The hiragana is easy, but the kanji 煩い and ateji 五月蝿い require intermediate study.

Writing 4/5

Writing the kanji 煩 is moderately difficult due to the number of strokes.

Speaking 2/5

Very common and easy to pronounce, but requires care with social register.

Listening 2/5

Easily recognized, though slang variants like 'urusee' might confuse beginners.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

静か (shizuka) 音 (oto) 声 (koe) 高い (takai) 言う (iu)

Learn Next

騒がしい (sawagashii) 賑やか (nigiyaka) 迷惑 (meiwaku) 厳しい (kibishii) こだわり (kodawari)

Advanced

喧騒 (kensou) 喧伝 (kenden) 耳障り (mimizawari) 騒々しい (souzoushii) 几帳面 (kichoumen)

Grammar to Know

I-Adjective Conjugation

うるさい -> うるさくない -> うるさかった -> うるさくなかった

Adverbial form with 'ku'

うるさく騒ぐ (To shout noisily)

Te-form for Reason

うるさくて寝られない (Can't sleep because it's noisy)

Noun modification

うるさい人 (A noisy person)

Target particle 'ni'

味にうるさい (Picky about taste)

Examples by Level

テレビの音がうるさいです。

The TV sound is noisy.

Simple adjective use: [Subject] ga [Adjective] desu.

外はうるさいですか。

Is it noisy outside?

Question form ending with 'ka'.

この部屋はうるさくないです。

This room is not noisy.

Negative form of i-adjective: drop 'i', add 'kunai'.

うるさい！静かにして。

Noisy! (Shut up!) Be quiet.

Standalone exclamation used informally.

昨日はとてもうるさかったです。

It was very noisy yesterday.

Past tense of i-adjective: drop 'i', add 'katta'.

うるさい犬がいます。

There is a noisy dog.

Adjective modifying a noun directly.

学校は少しうるさいです。

The school is a little noisy.

Using 'sukoshi' (a little) to modify the adjective.

うるさくない音楽が好きです。

I like music that isn't noisy.

Negative adjective modifying a noun.

弟がうるさくて、勉強ができません。

My younger brother is noisy/annoying, so I can't study.

Te-form of adjective (urusakute) used to show cause/reason.

そんなにうるさくしないでください。

Please don't be so noisy.

Adverbial form (urusaku) + shinaide kudasai (please don't do).

隣の人が夜中までうるさかったです。

The person next door was noisy until midnight.

Past tense 'urusakatta' used for a completed state.

うるさい子供たちが公園で遊んでいます。

Noisy children are playing in the park.

Noun modification: [Adjective] + [Noun].

都会はうるさいですが、便利です。

The city is noisy, but it is convenient.

Using 'ga' to connect two contrasting clauses.

あまりうるさく言うと、嫌われますよ。

If you nag (say things noisily) too much, people will dislike you.

Adverbial 'urusaku' modifying the verb 'iu' (to say).

この掃除機はうるさくないですか。

Is this vacuum cleaner not noisy?

Negative question form.

うるさかったので、窓を閉めました。

Because it was noisy, I closed the window.

Past tense + 'node' (because).

父はコーヒーの味にとてもうるさいです。

My father is very picky about the taste of coffee.

[Topic] + ni + urusai (picky about...).

彼は時間にうるさいので、遅れないようにしましょう。

He is strict about time, so let's not be late.

Focus on the 'strict/fastidious' meaning of the word.

母は私の服装にうるさく言います。

My mother nags me about my clothes.

Using 'ni' for the target and 'urusaku iu' for nagging.

世間の目がうるさいから、気を付けたほうがいい。

The eyes of the world are annoying (judgmental), so you should be careful.

Metaphorical use regarding social pressure.

あのレストランは味にうるさい人たちに人気です。

That restaurant is popular with people who are picky about taste.

Adjective phrase modifying 'hitotachi' (people).

上司が細かいことにうるさくて、困っています。

My boss is picky about small details, and it's troublesome.

Using 'te-form' for cause and 'komatte iru' for the result.

私は音にうるさくないので、どこでも眠れます。

I'm not picky about sound, so I can sleep anywhere.

Negative 'urusakunai' used for 'not picky'.

あまりうるさくすると、近所迷惑になります。

If you make too much noise, it will become a nuisance to the neighbors.

Using 'suru' (to do/make) with the adverbial 'urusaku'.

この絵は色が多すぎて、少しうるさい感じがします。

This painting has too many colors and feels a bit too busy.

Describing visual clutter or excessive design.

彼はマナーに関して非常にうるさいことで知られている。

He is known for being extremely strict regarding manners.

Formal structure: [Noun] + ni kanshite (regarding) + urusai.

工事の音がうるさくて、会議の声が聞き取れなかった。

The construction noise was so loud that I couldn't catch the voices in the meeting.

Potential form 'kikitorenakatta' used with 'urusakute'.

彼は自分の専門分野については、誰よりも口うるさい。

He is more nagging/particular about his field of expertise than anyone else.

Use of the compound adjective 'kuchi-urusai'.

そんなにうるさく言わなくても、一度言えば分かります。

Even if you don't nag so much, I'll understand if you say it once.

Conditional 'nakutemo' (even if not).

都会の喧騒は、時として耳にうるさく感じられる。

The bustle of the city can sometimes feel grating to the ears.

Phrase 'mimi ni urusai' meaning grating or annoying to hear.

彼は品質にうるさい職人として、業界で尊敬されている。

He is respected in the industry as a craftsman who is picky about quality.

Positive connotation of 'urusai' in a professional context.

「うるさい！」と一喝して、彼は部屋を出て行った。

He shouted "Shut up!" and left the room.

Use of 'ikkatsu' (shouting/thundering) with the direct quote.

その評論家は、文章のリズムに非常にうるさい。

That critic is extremely fastidious about the rhythm of writing.

Applying 'urusai' to abstract concepts like literary rhythm.

過剰な広告は、現代社会において目にうるさい存在となっている。

Excessive advertising has become a visually distracting presence in modern society.

Phrase 'me ni urusai' meaning visually cluttered or glaring.

彼は伝統の継承に関しては、並々ならぬこだわりとうるささを持っている。

Regarding the inheritance of tradition, he has extraordinary obsession and strictness.

Turning the adjective into a noun 'urusasa' (strictness/noisiness).

選挙カーのスピーカーから流れる声が、朝からうるさくてたまらない。

The voices from the election car speakers have been unbearably noisy since morning.

Use of '...te tamaranai' (unbearably/can't stand).

彼はワインのヴィンテージにうるさいだけでなく、グラスの形状にもこだわる。

Not only is he picky about wine vintages, but he also obsesses over the shape of the glass.

Combining 'urusai' with 'kodawaru' for emphasis on detail.

周囲の雑音をうるさいと感じるかどうかは、個人の主観に依存する。

Whether one feels ambient noise is 'urusai' depends on individual subjectivity.

Philosophical/Academic context of noise perception.

母の口うるさい小言も、今となっては懐かしい思い出だ。

Even my mother's nagging complaints are now a nostalgic memory.

Using 'kuchi-urusai' in a nostalgic, reflective sentence.

デザインにうるさい顧客を満足させるのは、至難の業だ。

Satisfying a client who is picky about design is an extremely difficult feat.

Using 'urusai' to describe a challenging customer type.

その建築家は、空間における「静寂」を、単なる「うるさくない」状態以上のものと定義した。

The architect defined 'silence' in space as something more than just a 'not noisy' state.

Using the negative form in a philosophical definition.

都会の喧騒に身を置くと、情報のうるささに精神が摩耗していくのを感じる。

Being in the bustle of the city, I feel my spirit wearing down from the 'noise' of information.

Metaphorical 'noise of information' (jouhou no urusasa).

彼は古典芸能の形式美にうるさいが、その厳格さが彼の芸を支えている。

He is strict about the formal beauty of classical performing arts, and that rigor supports his craft.

Acknowledging 'urusai' as a necessary professional rigor.

現代文学において、「うるさい」描写は、しばしば主人公の焦燥感を表現するために用いられる。

In modern literature, 'noisy' descriptions are often used to express the protagonist's sense of frustration.

Literary analysis of the word's function.

彼は世俗的な成功には無頓着だが、学問的な真理の探究には人一倍うるさい。

He is indifferent to worldly success but is more fastidious than anyone about the pursuit of academic truth.

Contrasting 'mutonchaku' (indifferent) with 'urusai' (fastidious).

「煩い」という漢字が示す通り、それは心を煩わせる、刺すような刺激である。

As the kanji '煩い' indicates, it is a piercing stimulus that troubles the heart.

Etymological analysis within the sentence.

政治家たちの喧しい議論は、国民の耳には空虚な響きとしてしか届かない。

The noisy arguments of politicians reach the citizens' ears only as empty echoes.

Using 'yakamashii' (noisy/clamorous) as a synonym for political noise.

沈黙こそが最も雄弁であり、言葉を重ねることは時として「うるさい」蛇足に過ぎない。

Silence is most eloquent, and piling up words is sometimes nothing more than a 'noisy' superfluity.

Using 'urusai' to describe unnecessary addition (dasoku).

Common Collocations

音がうるさい

味にうるさい

時間にうるさい

口うるさい

うるさく言う

世間がうるさい

目にうるさい

マナーにうるさい

耳にうるさい

規則にうるさい

Common Phrases

うるさい！

— Shut up! or Be quiet! Used as a sharp interjection.

うるさい！黙って！

ちょっとうるさい

— A bit noisy. A common polite way to complain.

テレビ、ちょっとうるさいよ。

うるさくする

— To make noise or cause a racket.

夜はうるさくしないで。

うるさくてたまらない

— Unbearably noisy. Expresses extreme frustration.

蝉がうるさくてたまらない。

うるさく言われる

— To be nagged or scolded persistently.

親にうるさく言われた。

服装にうるさい

— Picky about clothing or fashion standards.

彼は服装にうるさい人だ。

掃除機の音がうるさい

— The vacuum cleaner is noisy. Common household complaint.

この掃除機、音がうるさいね。

うるさくない場所

— A quiet place (literally: a place that is not noisy).

うるさくない場所で話そう。

細かいことにうるさい

— Picky about small, trivial details.

彼は細かいことにうるさい。

外がうるさくて眠れない

— Can't sleep because it's noisy outside.

工事で外がうるさくて眠れない。

Often Confused With

煩い vs 賑やか (nigiyaka)

Nigiyaka is positive (lively); urusai is negative (noisy/annoying).

煩い vs 忙しい (isogashii)

Beginners sometimes confuse the sounds, but isogashii means 'busy' (time-wise).

煩い vs 厳しい (kibishii)

Both can mean 'strict,' but kibishii is more professional, while urusai implies nagging.

Idioms & Expressions

"口うるさい"

— Nagging, talkative in an annoying way, or overly critical.

口うるさい上司には困ったものだ。

Casual/Neutral

"耳にうるさい"

— Tired of hearing the same advice or complaints; grating to the ears.

同じ小言を何度も聞くのは耳にうるさい。

Neutral

"目にうるさい"

— Visually distracting, glaring, or having too many clashing elements.

このウェブサイトは広告が多くて目にうるさい。

Neutral

"五月蝿い (Ateji)"

— The specific kanji writing meaning 'noisy like May flies.'

五月蝿い音に悩まされる。

Literary

"規則にうるさい"

— Strict about following every single rule to the letter.

あの警備員は規則にうるさい。

Neutral

"味にうるさい"

— Having a refined but very picky palate for food.

彼は美食家で、味にうるさい。

Neutral

"世間にうるさい"

— Being overly concerned with or bothered by public opinion.

彼は世間にうるさいから、体裁を気にする。

Neutral

"自分にうるさい"

— Being very strict or self-critical about one's own performance.

彼は自分にうるさい努力家だ。

Neutral

"形式にうるさい"

— Fastidious about formalities, protocol, or etiquette.

あの会社は形式にうるさい文化がある。

Formal

"音にうるさい"

— Picky about sound quality (e.g., an audiophile).

オーディオマニアは音にうるさい。

Neutral

Easily Confused

煩い vs 騒がしい (sawagashii)

Both mean 'noisy.'

Sawagashii is objective and describes a scene or crowd. Urusai is subjective and describes personal annoyance. You can say a street is sawagashii without being bothered by it, but urusai means it bothers you.

通りが騒がしい (The street is noisy) vs 通りがうるさい (The street is annoyingly loud).

煩い vs 喧しい (yakamashii)

Synonyms for loud noise.

Yakamashii often describes a high-pitched, piercing, or chaotic sound, or a person who is very loud and strict. It's slightly more formal or emphatic than urusai.

小言が喧しい (The nagging is loud/harsh).

煩い vs 騒々しい (souzoushii)

Both relate to noise.

Souzoushii implies a lack of calm or a state of commotion. It is used more in writing or formal reports than in casual speech.

騒々しい世の中 (A chaotic/noisy world).

煩い vs 耳障り (mimizawari)

Both describe unpleasant sounds.

Mimizawari is specifically about the 'quality' of the sound being grating or offensive to the ear. Urusai is more about the 'volume' or 'persistence.'

耳障りな声 (A grating voice).

煩い vs 凝り性 (korishou)

Both can relate to being 'picky.'

Korishou means someone who gets deeply into a hobby. 'Ni urusai' means they have high standards and are hard to please. You can be korishou without being urusai (annoyingly picky).

彼は凝り性だ (He is a hobby enthusiast).

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] がうるさいです。

テレビがうるさいです。

うるさくしないでください。

[Noun] にうるさい。

彼はコーヒーにうるさい。

うるさく言う / 言われる。

母にうるさく言われた。

[Noun] に関してうるさい。

マナーに関してうるさい。

目に / 耳にうるさい。

広告が目にうるさい。

うるさくてたまらない。

蝉の声がうるさくてたまらない。

うるささを厭う。

都会のうるささを厭う。

Word Family

Nouns

うるささ (urusasa) - noisiness/strictness

Verbs

煩う (wazurau) - to be troubled/ill (related kanji origin)

煩わす (wazurawasu) - to trouble/bother

Adjectives

煩わしい (wazurawashii) - troublesome/annoying

騒ぐ (sawagu) - to make noise

喧嘩 (kenka) - a fight/quarrel

苦情 (kujou) - a complaint

静寂 (seijaku) - silence

騒音 (souon) - noise pollution

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily conversation, media, and complaints.

Common Mistakes

Using 'urusai' for a fun party. → 賑やか (nigiyaka)
'Urusai' means the noise is bothering you. If you like the party, it's 'nigiyaka.'
Saying 'urusai na hito'. → うるさい人 (urusai hito)
It's an i-adjective, so it doesn't need 'na' to modify a noun.
Telling a teacher 'urusai desu'. → 声が少し大きいです (koe ga sukoshi ookii desu)
Even with 'desu,' 'urusai' is too rude for a superior. Comment on the volume instead.
Confusing 'urusai' with 'isogashii'. → 忙しい (isogashii)
They sound similar but 'isogashii' means busy, while 'urusai' means noisy.
Using 'urusai' for a difficult math problem. → 難しい (muzukashii)
A problem can't be 'noisy' unless the teacher is being 'picky' (urusai) about the steps.

Tips

Soften your complaints

If a neighbor is being loud, saying 'urusai desu' is very blunt. Instead, try 'sukoshi oto ga k気になるのですが...' (I'm a bit concerned about the sound...).

Picky Particle

Always use 'ni' when you are picky about something. 'Aji ni urusai' (picky about taste). Without 'ni,' the meaning changes entirely.

Positive Alternatives

When describing a busy street you like, use 'nigiyaka.' It shows you are enjoying the energy rather than being annoyed by it.

The 'Urusai' Interjection

In casual settings, 'urusai na~' (with a trailing 'na') can be used playfully when a friend is teasing you. It's like saying 'Oh, stop it!'

Kanji usage

While 煩い is the standard kanji, most Japanese people write it in hiragana (うるさい). Use hiragana unless you want to look very literary.

Slang recognition

When you hear 'Usseewa,' it's the slang version of 'Urusai wa.' It's very aggressive and popular in modern youth culture.

Train Etiquette

Being 'urusai' on a train is one of the biggest social sins in Japan. Keep your voice down and your phone on silent.

Compound Power

Learn 'kuchi-urusai' (nagging). it's a very common way to describe a boss or parent who won't stop talking.

Eye Noise

Use 'me ni urusai' for busy designs. It's a great way to describe a PowerPoint slide that has too much text!

Antonym Practice

Always practice 'urusai' alongside 'shizuka' (quiet) to cement the two ends of the sound spectrum in your mind.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine a 'U-Turn' (U-ru) on a 'Sigh' (sai). You make a U-turn because the noise is making you sigh with annoyance.

Visual Association

A person with their hands over their ears, surrounded by buzzing flies (the 'May flies' kanji connection).

Word Web

Noisy Annoying Picky Strict Loud Nagging Cluttered Fastidious

Challenge

Try to describe three things you are 'urusai' (picky) about using the '[Topic] ni urusai' pattern.

Word Origin

Derived from the ancient Japanese words 'ure' (pain/grief) and 'sashi' (piercing). It originally described something that caused mental distress or pierced the heart with worry.

Original meaning: Distressing, painful, or causing mental anguish.

Japonic (Old Japanese)

Cultural Context

Calling a person 'urusai' is a direct insult. In business, use 'kibishii' (strict) or 'komakai' (detailed) to avoid sounding aggressive.

English speakers often use 'noisy' neutrally, but 'urusai' is almost always a complaint. Use 'nigiyaka' for a 'good' noisy atmosphere.

Shana from 'Shakugan no Shana' is famous for her catchphrase 'Urusai! Urusai! Urusai!' The kanji 五月蝿い appears in many literary works to describe summer heat and annoyance. Japanese public service announcements often use 'shizuka ni' to avoid the harshness of 'urusai'.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At Home

テレビがうるさい
弟がうるさい
うるさくしないで
隣がうるさい

In a Restaurant

味がうるさい
店がうるさい
うるさい客
マナーにうるさい

At Work

時間にうるさい
細かいことにうるさい
上司がうるさい
電話がうるさい

On the Street

工事がうるさい
車がうるさい
選挙カーがうるさい
外がうるさい

About Hobbies

コーヒーにうるさい
ワインにうるさい
ファッションにうるさい
音質にうるさい

Conversation Starters

"この辺りは夜、うるさくないですか？ (Is it not noisy around here at night?)"

"あなたは何か「これにはうるさい」というこだわりはありますか？ (Do you have anything you are 'picky' about?)"

"最近、近所で工事がうるさくて困っています。 (Lately, construction in the neighborhood is noisy and troublesome.)"

"日本の電車の中はうるさくしてはいけないと言われますが、どう思いますか？ (It's said you shouldn't be noisy on Japanese trains; what do you think?)"

"コーヒーの味にうるさい友達を連れて行くなら、どこの店がいいですか？ (If you were to take a friend who is picky about coffee, which shop is good?)"

Journal Prompts

今日、一番「うるさい」と感じた音や出来事について書いてください。 (Write about the noise or event you felt was most 'urusai' today.)

あなたが「これだけは譲れない（うるさい）」というこだわりを説明してください。 (Explain a standard you are fastidious about and won't compromise on.)

「うるさい場所」と「静かな場所」、どちらが好きですか？その理由も教えてください。 (Do you like 'noisy places' or 'quiet places'? Tell me the reason.)

子供の頃、親にどんなことで「うるさく」言われましたか？ (What kind of things did your parents nag you about when you were a child?)

都会の「うるささ」と田舎の「静かさ」、あなたにとっての理想は？ (The 'noisiness' of the city vs. the 'quiet' of the country—what is your ideal?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Not always, but it is very direct. When used to describe a person, it is a criticism. When used for an object (like a noisy TV), it is a neutral complaint. In the context of 'picky' (e.g., wine ni urusai), it can even be a backhanded compliment about someone's expertise.

'Nigiyaka' is positive and means 'lively' or 'bustling' (like a fun festival). 'Urusai' is negative and means 'noisy' or 'annoying.' If you enjoy the noise, use 'nigiyaka.' If you hate it, use 'urusai.'

No, that would be very rude. It would sound like you are telling them to 'shut up.' Use 'kibishii' (strict) or 'komakai' (detailed) instead to describe their high standards professionally.

The ateji 五月蝿い refers to the buzzing of flies in May (lunar calendar), which was considered extremely annoying and persistent. It's a visual metaphor for the word's meaning.

Use 'shizuka ni shite kudasai' (Please be quiet) or 'shizuka ni ne' (Be quiet, okay?). 'Urusai!' is a sharp command and should only be used in anger or with very close friends.

It literally means 'mouth-noisy.' It translates to 'nagging' or 'talkative in an annoying way.' It's often used to describe parents, bosses, or anyone who gives too much unwanted advice.

No, it is a casual, rougher pronunciation of 'urusai.' It is common in male speech, anime, and manga, but you should avoid using it in real-life polite situations.

Yes, as long as you use the particle 'ni.' You can be 'urusai' about food, time, rules, fashion, or even the type of paper you use. It implies you have very high and strict standards.

It means 'visually distracting' or 'glaring.' You use it for things like a website with too many flashing ads or a room with clashing, bright colors that hurt your eyes.

It is an i-adjective. This means it conjugates like 'urusai -> urusakunai -> urusakatta.' You never say 'urusai na hito'; it is always 'urusai hito.'