じめじめした
じめじめした in 30 Seconds
- <em>Jimejime shita</em> means unpleasantly damp or humid.
- It's often used for weather during the rainy season.
- Also describes places that feel clammy and moist.
- Carries a negative connotation of discomfort.
The Japanese adjective jimejime shita (じめじめした) describes a state of being damp, clammy, or unpleasantly humid. It's often used to talk about the weather, but can also apply to environments or even feelings. Think of that sticky, uncomfortable feeling when the air is thick with moisture and it doesn't feel refreshing at all.
- Literal Meaning
- The word itself evokes a sense of clinging dampness. It's an onomatopoeic or mimetic word, meaning it imitates the sound or feeling it describes.
- Common Usage
- You'll most frequently hear jimejime shita when discussing the weather, especially during the rainy season (tsuyu) in Japan, or in humid summer months. It's also used to describe places that feel damp, like a basement, a poorly ventilated room, or even clothes that haven't dried properly. Occasionally, it can be used metaphorically to describe a gloomy or depressing atmosphere or mood.
- Nuance
- While 'humid' is a good translation, jimejime shita carries a stronger negative connotation. It implies discomfort and a lack of freshness, unlike a pleasant, light humidity. It's the kind of dampness that makes you feel sticky and a bit miserable.
The rainy season in Japan often brings じめじめした weather.
Understanding jimejime shita helps you grasp the nuances of describing weather and environments in Japanese, moving beyond simple translations to capture the feeling.
Jimejime shita is a na-adjective, which means it can directly precede a noun, or it can be used with the copula da (or desu in polite speech) to describe a subject. Its usage is quite straightforward once you understand its meaning.
- As a Noun Modifier
- When jimejime shita modifies a noun directly, it comes before the noun. This is the most common way to use it.
- With Copula (da/desu)
- You can also use jimejime shita with da (informal) or desu (polite) to describe the state of something or someone.
- Negative Forms
- To say something is *not* damp or humid, you would use the negative form of the copula, such as jimejime shite inai (not damp) or jimejime shite imasen (polite).
This summer is so じめじめした!
The じめじめした air made me uncomfortable.
Mastering the use of na-adjectives like jimejime shita will significantly improve your descriptive abilities in Japanese.
You'll encounter jimejime shita in a variety of everyday situations in Japan, especially when the climate dictates. Its prevalence makes it a very useful word for learners wanting to sound more natural.
- Weather Forecasts and Small Talk
- During the rainy season (tsuyu), which typically runs from early June to mid-July in many parts of Japan, jimejime shita is a staple. You'll hear it in casual conversations about the weather, on TV weather reports, and in discussions about how it affects daily life.
- Describing Living Spaces
- Japanese homes, particularly older ones or those in humid regions, can sometimes feel damp. People might complain about their rooms being jimejime shita, especially in basements, bathrooms, or closets where ventilation is poor.
- Clothing and Laundry
- If laundry doesn't dry properly due to humidity or lack of sunlight, it can feel damp and unpleasant. Someone might say, 'My clothes are still jimejime shita,' meaning they are still damp.
- Public Spaces
- Subway stations, underground shopping areas, or even certain bus stops can sometimes feel damp and clammy, especially after rain. People might comment on the jimejime shita atmosphere.
The train station felt really じめじめした today.
By being aware of these common scenarios, you can better integrate jimejime shita into your own Japanese conversations.
While jimejime shita is a useful adjective, learners might sometimes misuse it or fail to grasp its full nuance. Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:
- Confusing it with General Humidity
- 'Humid' can sometimes describe pleasant or refreshing moisture in the air. Jimejime shita specifically refers to *unpleasant*, clinging, clammy dampness. Using it for a light, pleasant mist would be incorrect.
- Using it for Dryness
- This might seem obvious, but it's important to remember that jimejime shita is the opposite of dry. If a place or the weather is dry, this word is inappropriate.
- Incorrect Grammatical Form
- As a na-adjective, it needs to be used correctly. Forgetting the 'na' when it modifies a noun (e.g., jimejime shita no heya is correct, but jimejime heya is not) or using it without da/desu when predicative (e.g., Kyou wa jimejime shita desu is correct, but Kyou wa jimejime shita might sound incomplete or informal depending on context) are common errors.
- Overuse in Metaphorical Contexts
- While it can describe a gloomy atmosphere, overuse in this sense might sound a bit dramatic or less natural than other expressions for mood. Stick to its primary meaning of physical dampness unless you are confident in the metaphorical usage.
Incorrect: The desert air is じめじめした.
Being aware of these common mistakes will help you use jimejime shita accurately and effectively.
While jimejime shita is specific, other Japanese words can describe humidity or dampness, each with slightly different nuances. Understanding these distinctions will enrich your vocabulary.
- 湿度が高い (shitsudo ga takai)
- Meaning: High humidity. This is a more neutral and technical term. It simply states that the level of moisture in the air is high, without necessarily implying discomfort. It's often used in weather reports or scientific contexts.
- 湿っぽい (shippoi)
- Meaning: Damp, moist, somewhat humid. This adjective is similar to jimejime shita but can sometimes be less intense. It can also describe a general dampness without the strong feeling of unpleasant stickiness. It can also be used metaphorically for a somber or tearful mood.
- 蒸し暑い (mushiatsui)
- Meaning: Muggy, hot and humid. This term specifically combines heat with high humidity, creating a feeling of oppressiveness. While jimejime shita focuses on dampness, mushiatsui emphasizes the uncomfortable combination of heat and moisture.
- 濡れている (nurete iru)
- Meaning: To be wet. This is a state of being covered in liquid, not just humid. You would say something is nurete iru if it's actually wet from rain, sweat, or being washed, whereas jimejime shita describes the air or a surface that feels damp due to moisture content.
Today's weather is 蒸し暑い, not just じめじめした.
Choosing the right word depends on the specific feeling or condition you want to convey, allowing for more precise and natural expression.
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The repetition in mimetic words like jimejime is very common in Japanese and is used to intensify the meaning or describe a continuous action or state. Think of pikapika (sparkling) or goro goro (rumbling).
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing 'ji' as 'gi' or 'shi'.
- Omitting the repetition of 'jimejime', making it sound like a single word.
- Incorrectly stressing the syllables, disrupting the natural flow.
Difficulty Rating
The word is relatively common and its meaning is usually clear from context, especially when related to weather or physical spaces. Understanding its negative connotation is key.
As a na-adjective, its grammatical usage is straightforward. The main challenge is using it appropriately to convey the intended level of discomfort.
Easy to pronounce and use in common phrases, particularly when discussing weather. Its frequent usage makes it accessible.
The repetition of 'jimejime' makes it quite recognizable when heard.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Na-adjective conjugation: jimejime shita as a na-adjective can modify a noun directly (jimejime shita heya) or be used predicatively with da/desu (heya ga jimejime shite imasu).
This is a jimejime shita room. (この部屋はじめじめした部屋です。) The room is jimejime shite imasu. (部屋がじめじめしています。)
Using ~ている (-te iru) to describe a state: jimejime shite iru describes a continuous state of being damp.
The air is jimejime shite iru. (空気がじめじめしている。)
Using ~ので/から for reasons: Explaining why something is happening due to the dampness.
Because it's jimejime shita weather, I don't feel like going out. (じめじめした天気なので、外出する気が起きない。)
Using ~ようだ/みたいだ to express resemblance or appearance: Describing something that seems or appears damp.
This wallpaper looks jimejime shita. (この壁紙はじめじめしたようだ。)
Using ~がちだ to indicate a tendency: Describing a tendency to feel or become a certain way due to dampness.
On jimejime shita days, I tend to feel down. (じめじめした日には、気分が落ち込みがちです。)
Examples by Level
今日はじめじめしていますね。
It's damp today, isn't it?
Basic sentence structure with the adjective describing the current state.
じめじめした日。
A damp day.
Adjective directly modifying a noun.
部屋がじめじめする。
The room feels damp.
Using the adjective with 'suru' to describe a feeling or state.
傘が必要です。じめじめしています。
An umbrella is needed. It's damp.
Simple statement of condition.
じめじめした服。
Damp clothes.
Adjective modifying a noun.
雨が降ってじめじめした。
It rained and became damp.
Using the adjective to describe the result of an action.
この場所はじめじめしている。
This place is damp.
Describing a location.
じめじめした空気。
Damp air.
Adjective modifying a noun.
梅雨の時期は、いつもじめじめした天気になりますね。
During the rainy season, the weather always becomes damp, doesn't it?
Using 'jimejime shita' with 'tenki' (weather) and 'ni naru' (to become).
じめじめした部屋はカビが生えやすいです。
Damp rooms are prone to mold growth.
Using 'jimejime shita' to describe a condition that leads to another outcome.
洗濯物が乾かず、じめじめしています。
The laundry isn't drying and feels damp.
Describing the state of laundry.
地下室はいつもじめじめしているので、物を置きたくない。
The basement is always damp, so I don't want to put things there.
Giving a reason for an action based on the condition.
じめじめした日には、気分も落ち込みがちです。
On damp days, my mood tends to fall.
Connecting weather condition to emotional state.
この古い家は、どこもかしこもじめじめしています。
This old house is damp everywhere.
Using 'doko mo kashiko mo' (everywhere) with the adjective.
じめじめした夏は苦手です。
I don't like damp summers.
Expressing dislike for a certain type of weather.
外は雨で、じめじめした空気が漂っています。
It's raining outside, and a damp atmosphere lingers.
Describing the air quality.
この地域は夏になると、例外なくじめじめした日が続きます。
In this region, when summer arrives, damp days continue without exception.
Using 'reiyaku naku' (without exception) to emphasize the consistency of the damp weather.
じめじめした衣類は、早く乾かすか、陰干しにする必要があります。
Damp clothing needs to be dried quickly or aired out in the shade.
Providing advice related to handling damp items.
長雨のせいで、庭の土がじめじめして、植物の根腐れが心配です。
Due to the long rain, the garden soil is damp, and I'm worried about root rot in the plants.
Explaining a consequence of dampness in a specific context (garden).
じめじめした不快な気候は、私の体調にも影響を与えます。
The damp, unpleasant climate also affects my physical condition.
Connecting the weather condition to personal health.
換気を十分に行わないと、どんな部屋でもじめじめしてしまいます。
If ventilation is not sufficient, any room will become damp.
Stating a general principle about maintaining a dry environment.
じめじめした雰囲気の場所は、あまり長居したくないものです。
I don't really want to stay long in places with a damp atmosphere.
Using 'jimejime shita' metaphorically for atmosphere, though primarily physical dampness is implied.
その古い書物は、湿気でじめじめしていた。
That old book was damp from the moisture.
Describing the condition of an object affected by humidity.
じめじめした天気が続くと、気分転換に何か明るいことをしたくなる。
When damp weather continues, I feel like doing something cheerful to change my mood.
Expressing a desire for change in response to prolonged damp weather.
日本の梅雨時期特有の、あのじめじめした不快感は、多くの人が経験することだろう。
That damp, unpleasant feeling, unique to Japan's rainy season, is likely experienced by many people.
Using 'jimejime shita' to describe a characteristic feeling of a specific season.
低気圧の影響で、広範囲にわたってじめじめした空気が停滞している。
Due to the influence of low pressure, damp air is stagnating over a wide area.
Using 'jimejime shita' in a more meteorological context, describing air mass.
カビの発生を抑制するためには、日頃から換気を徹底し、じめじめした環境を作らないことが肝要だ。
To suppress mold growth, it is essential to thoroughly ventilate daily and not create a damp environment.
Using 'jimejime shita' in the context of preventative measures and essential actions ('kanzen' - essential).
じめじめした床は滑りやすく、特に高齢者やお子様にとっては危険を伴う可能性がある。
Damp floors are slippery and can pose a danger, especially to the elderly and children.
Highlighting potential safety hazards associated with dampness.
長期間にわたるじめじめした天候は、精神的な負担となり、活動意欲を減退させることもある。
Prolonged damp weather can become a psychological burden and sometimes reduce motivation for activities.
Discussing the psychological impact of persistent damp conditions.
この古い城壁は、長年の雨風にさらされ、一部がじめじめとしていた。
This old castle wall, exposed to years of rain and wind, was damp in parts.
Describing the condition of historical structures.
じめじめした場所は、不快感だけでなく、衛生上の問題も引き起こしかねません。
Damp places can cause not only discomfort but also hygiene problems.
Emphasizing the dual issues of discomfort and hygiene related to dampness.
夏の蒸し暑さとは異なり、じめじめした空気は、熱がこもっている感覚を伴うことが多い。
Unlike the muggy heat of summer, damp air often comes with a feeling of trapped heat.
Differentiating 'jimejime shita' from 'mushiatsui' by describing the sensation.
気候変動の影響か、近年、従来とは異なるパターンでじめじめした日が観測されるようになった。
Perhaps due to the effects of climate change, in recent years, damp days have been observed in patterns different from before.
Discussing environmental changes and their impact on weather patterns, using 'jimejime shita' to describe the observed days.
建物の構造上、地下部分は常にじめじめした状態にあり、特別な防水・防湿対策が不可欠である。
Due to the building's structure, the basement portion is always in a damp state, making special waterproofing and moisture-proofing measures indispensable.
Using 'jimejime shita' in a technical context related to construction and engineering.
じめじめした不快感は、単なる身体的な感覚に留まらず、心理的なストレス要因ともなり得る。
The damp, unpleasant sensation is not merely a physical feeling but can also become a psychological stressor.
Analyzing the multifaceted impact of dampness, linking physical and psychological effects.
梅雨前線の停滞は、地域によっては長期間にわたるじめじめした気候をもたらし、農業や人々の生活に多大な影響を与える。
The stagnation of the rainy season front, depending on the region, brings prolonged damp weather, greatly affecting agriculture and people's lives.
Describing the broader societal and economic impacts of prolonged damp weather.
じめじめした環境下では、微生物の活動が活発化し、カビや細菌の増殖リスクが高まる。
In damp environments, microbial activity becomes more active, increasing the risk of mold and bacteria proliferation.
Explaining the biological consequences of damp conditions.
その作家の描く世界観は、しばしばじめじめとした陰鬱さを帯びており、読者に独特の感覚を与える。
The worldview depicted by that author often carries a damp gloominess, giving readers a unique sensation.
Using 'jimejime shita' metaphorically to describe the mood or atmosphere in literature.
じめじめした気候は、衣類の保管にも注意を要し、定期的な陰干しや除湿剤の使用が推奨される。
Damp climates require care in storing clothes, and regular airing out or the use of desiccants is recommended.
Providing practical advice for managing belongings in humid conditions.
湿度が異常に高い日には、空気が重く、じめじめした不快感が全身を包むかのようである。
On days with abnormally high humidity, the air feels heavy, and a damp, unpleasant sensation seems to envelop the entire body.
Describing an intense physical experience of dampness.
近年の気象変動により、季節の移り変わりが不明瞭になり、通年を通じてじめじめした状態が続く地域も少なくない。
Due to recent climate changes, the transition of seasons has become unclear, and there are many regions where damp conditions persist throughout the year.
Discussing long-term climate impacts and geographical variations in persistent dampness.
建築基準法における防湿・防水対策は、単に建物の耐久性を保つだけでなく、居住者の健康維持という観点からも、じめじめした環境の回避は極めて重要視される。
In terms of building codes, moisture-proofing and waterproofing measures are considered extremely important not only for maintaining building durability but also from the perspective of resident health maintenance, to avoid damp environments.
Analyzing the regulatory and health-related significance of preventing damp environments in architecture.
じめじめした不快感は、身体的な生理反応のみならず、人間の心理状態や行動様式にまで影響を及ぼす複雑な現象である。
The damp, unpleasant sensation is a complex phenomenon that affects not only physical physiological responses but also human psychological states and behavioral patterns.
Deconstructing the complex relationship between environmental dampness and human well-being at multiple levels.
南方からの湿った空気塊の流入は、しばしば長期間にわたる梅雨前線の停滞を招き、結果として広範囲でじめじめした気候をもたらす。
The inflow of moist air masses from the south often leads to the prolonged stagnation of the rainy season front, resulting in damp weather over a wide area.
Using precise meteorological terminology to explain the cause and effect of prolonged damp weather.
じめじめした環境は、建材の劣化を促進するだけでなく、アレルギー性疾患や呼吸器系の問題を引き起こす温床となり得るため、その対策は多岐にわたる。
Damp environments not only accelerate the deterioration of building materials but can also become a breeding ground for allergic diseases and respiratory problems, thus countermeasures are diverse.
Detailing the health risks and diverse mitigation strategies associated with damp environments.
その芸術家の作品群は、しばしばじめじめとした湿潤な感覚を想起させ、鑑賞者に内省的な、あるいはやや憂鬱な感情を抱かせる。
The artist's body of work often evokes a damp, humid sensation, inducing introspective or somewhat melancholic feelings in the viewer.
Applying 'jimejime shita' metaphorically to art criticism, describing its evocative power.
衣類の長期保管においては、湿度の管理が極めて重要であり、じめじめした状態は繊維の劣化や異臭の原因となるため、定期的な手入れが不可欠である。
In long-term clothing storage, humidity control is extremely important, and damp conditions cause fiber deterioration and unpleasant odors, making regular maintenance indispensable.
Providing expert advice on managing textiles in damp conditions, emphasizing the consequences.
異常な高温多湿、いわゆる「じめじめした」状況は、単なる不快感を超え、熱中症のリスクを高める要因ともなり得る。
Abnormally high temperature and humidity, the so-called 'damp' situation, goes beyond mere discomfort and can also be a factor that increases the risk of heatstroke.
Linking intense dampness to serious health risks like heatstroke.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— It's damp/humid, isn't it? (a common observation about the weather or environment)
今日の天気は本当にじめじめしていますね。 (Kyou no tenki wa hontou ni jimejime shite imasu ne.) The weather today is really damp, isn't it?
— A damp/humid day.
じめじめした日には、気分が晴れない。 (Jimejime shita hi ni wa, kibun ga harenai.) On a damp day, my mood doesn't lift.
— A damp/clammy room.
この部屋はじめじめしているので、カビが生えそうだ。 (Kono heya wa jimejime shite iru node, kabi ga haesou da.) This room is damp, so it looks like mold will grow.
— Damp/humid air.
外に出ると、じめじめした空気に包まれた。 (Soto ni deru to, jimejime shita kuuki ni tsutsumareta.) When I went outside, I was enveloped by the damp air.
— A gloomy or downcast mood. (Metaphorical use)
雨が降ると、ついじめじめした気分になってしまう。 (Ame ga furu to, tsui jimejime shita kibun ni natte shimau.) When it rains, I tend to get into a gloomy mood.
— Because of the damp/humid weather.
じめじめした天気のせいで、外出する気が起きない。 (Jimejime shita tenki no sei de, gaishutsu suru ki ga okinai.) Because of the damp weather, I don't feel like going out.
— A state of being damp/humid.
この衣類はまだじめじめした状態だ。 (Kono irui wa mada jimejime shita joutai da.) These clothes are still in a damp state.
— Damp/humid climate.
その国は一年中じめじめした気候だ。 (Sono kuni wa ichinenjuu jimejime shita kikou da.) That country has a damp climate all year round.
— I don't like damp places.
私はじめじめした場所は苦手です。 (Watashi wa jimejime shita basho wa nigate desu.) I don't like damp places.
— A damp/clammy feeling.
肌にじめじめした感じがする。 (Hada ni jimejime shita kanji ga suru.) My skin feels damp.
Often Confused With
Both mean damp or moist. Jimejime shita often implies a stronger, more unpleasant, and clinging dampness, while shippoi can be more general or even used metaphorically for sadness.
Mushiatsui specifically refers to hot and humid conditions, emphasizing the heat combined with moisture. Jimejime shita focuses more on the dampness itself, regardless of temperature, though it often implies a lack of freshness that can be associated with heat.
This is a neutral, technical term for 'high humidity.' Jimejime shita carries a negative connotation of discomfort and unpleasantness, while shitsudo ga takai is purely descriptive.
Idioms & Expressions
— To feel gloomy, down, or depressed, often due to dreary weather. It's a metaphorical extension of the physical feeling of dampness.
雨が降り続くと、どうしてもじめじめした気分になってしまう。 (Ame ga furitsuzuku to, doushitemo jimejime shita kibun ni natte shimau.) When it keeps raining, I inevitably start to feel gloomy.
Informal/Neutral— A depressing, morbid, or unpleasant topic of conversation. Similar to 'gloomy talk'.
そんなじめじめした話はやめよう。 (Sonna jimejime shita hanashi wa yameyou.) Let's stop talking about such depressing things.
Informal/Neutral— A person who is gloomy, pessimistic, or has a generally unpleasant and downbeat personality. This is a strong and often critical description.
彼はいつも愚痴ばかり言っていて、じめじめした人間だ。 (Kare wa itsumo guchi bakari itte ite, jimejime shita ningen da.) He always complains and is a gloomy person.
Informal/Negative— A place that is physically damp, but can also imply a place that is depressing or has a negative atmosphere.
あの古い倉庫は、物理的にも精神的にもじめじめした場所だった。 (Ano furui souko wa, butsuriteki ni mo seishinteki ni mo jimejime shita basho datta.) That old warehouse was a place that was physically and mentally damp/depressing.
Neutral/Slightly Negative— To exude an aura or atmosphere of gloominess or dampness, often referring to a person's demeanor or a place's ambiance.
彼女はいつもどこかじめじめした空気をまとっているように見える。 (Kanojo wa itsumo dokoka jimejime shita kuuki o matou you ni mieru.) She always seems to exude a somewhat gloomy atmosphere.
Literary/Figurative— To carry heavy, persistent, and often unspoken worries or troubles.
彼は長年、じめじめした悩みを抱え続けているようだ。 (Kare wa naganen, jimejime shita nayami o kakaetsuzukete iru you da.) He seems to have been carrying heavy worries for many years.
Figurative/Somber— Gloomy or unpleasant associations that come to mind.
その音楽を聴くと、いつもじめじめした連想をしてしまう。 (Sono ongaku o kiku to, itsumo jimejime shita rensou o shite shimau.) When I listen to that music, I always make gloomy associations.
Figurative/Psychological— To dampen the mood of a gathering with depressing or unpleasant talk.
彼のじめじめした話で、パーティーの雰囲気が悪くなった。 (Kare no jimejime shita hanashi de, paatii no fun'iki ga waruku natta.) The party atmosphere soured due to his depressing talk.
Informal/Social— Ironically used to describe people who enjoy dwelling on negative, depressing, or morbid topics.
彼らは集まると、いつもじめじめした話に花を咲かせている。 (Karera wa atsumaru to, itsumo jimejime shita hanashi ni hana o sakasete iru.) When they get together, they always seem to revel in talking about depressing things.
Ironic/Informal— A pervasive sense of gloominess, melancholy, or dreariness.
その小説は、じめじめした陰鬱さを読者に強く感じさせる。 (Sono shousetsu wa, jimejime shita in'utsu sa o dousha ni tsuyoku kanjisaseru.) That novel strongly makes the reader feel a damp gloominess.
Literary/DescriptiveEasily Confused
Both words describe dampness or moisture.
<em>Jimejime shita</em> emphasizes an unpleasant, clinging, and sticky dampness, often associated with discomfort. <em>Shippoi</em> is a more general term for dampness and can also describe a somber or tearful mood, making it more versatile but less specific about the unpleasant physical sensation.
The air feels <em>jimejime shita</em>. (空気が<em>じめじめした</em>。) vs. The air feels <em>shippoi</em>. (空気が<em>湿っぽい</em>。) The latter is less intense and could even imply a pleasant mistiness, whereas the former implies you'll feel sticky.
Both describe uncomfortable humid conditions, especially during summer.
<em>Mushiatsui</em> specifically combines heat with humidity, creating a muggy and oppressive feeling. <em>Jimejime shita</em> focuses on the dampness itself, which can occur even without extreme heat, and emphasizes the clammy, sticky sensation. You can have <em>jimejime shita</em> weather that isn't necessarily hot, but <em>mushiatsui</em> is always hot and humid.
It's hot and muggy today. (今日は<em>蒸し暑い</em>。) vs. The air feels damp and sticky today. (今日は空気が<em>じめじめした</em>感じだ。)
Both relate to moisture.
<em>Nurete iru</em> means 'to be wet,' implying direct contact with liquid (rain, water, sweat). <em>Jimejime shita</em> describes the ambient condition of being damp or humid, a feeling of moisture in the air or on surfaces, rather than being soaked.
My clothes are wet. (服が<em>濡れている</em>。) vs. My clothes feel damp and clammy. (服が<em>じめじめしている</em>。)
Both relate to high moisture levels.
<em>Shitsudo ga takai</em> is a neutral, objective statement meaning 'humidity is high.' It's often used in technical contexts or weather reports. <em>Jimejime shita</em> is a subjective adjective that describes the *unpleasant feeling* caused by high humidity, carrying a negative connotation of discomfort.
The humidity is 85%. (湿度が85%です。) vs. The weather feels unpleasantly damp. (天気が<em>じめじめしています</em>。)
They are opposites related to moisture.
<em>Kansou shite iru</em> means 'is dry.' It's the direct antonym of <em>jimejime shita</em>. <em>Jimejime shita</em> describes an excess of moisture, while <em>kansou shite iru</em> describes a lack of it.
The air is dry today. (空気が<em>乾燥している</em>。) vs. The air is damp today. (空気が<em>じめじめしている</em>。)
Sentence Patterns
今日はじめじめしています。
今日はじめじめしていますね。 (Kyou wa jimejime shite imasu ne.) It's damp today, isn't it?
じめじめした + Noun。
じめじめした日です。 (Jimejime shita hi desu.) It's a damp day.
Noun + はじめじめしています。
この部屋はじめじめしています。 (Kono heya wa jimejime shite imasu.) This room is damp.
じめじめした + Noun + から。
じめじめした場所だから、あまり長居したくない。 (Jimejime shita basho dakara, amari nagai shitakunai.) Because it's a damp place, I don't want to stay long.
じめじめした + Noun + が続く。
梅雨はじめじめした日が続きます。 (Tsuyu wa jimejime shita hi ga tsuzukimasu.) The rainy season continues with damp days.
じめじめした + Noun + を感じる。
じめじめした空気を肌で感じる。 (Jimejime shita kuuki o hada de kanjiru.) I feel the damp air on my skin.
じめじめした + Noun + の影響で。
じめじめした気候の影響で、体調が優れない。 (Jimejime shita kikou no eikyou de, taichou ga sugurenai.) Due to the damp climate, I don't feel well.
じめじめした + Noun + は~を招く。
じめじめした環境はカビを招きやすい。 (Jimejime shita kankyou wa kabi o maneki yasui.) Damp environments tend to invite mold.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High, especially during humid seasons or in specific environments.
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Using <em>jimejime shita</em> for pleasant humidity.
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Use neutral terms like <em>shitsudo ga takai</em> (湿度が高い) or <em>sawayaka na</em> (爽やかな) for pleasant moisture.
<em>Jimejime shita</em> specifically implies an uncomfortable, sticky, and clammy feeling. Using it for pleasant humidity would be incorrect and convey the wrong meaning.
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Confusing <em>jimejime shita</em> with <em>mushiatsui</em>.
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Use <em>mushiatsui</em> (蒸し暑い) for hot and humid (muggy) weather. Use <em>jimejime shita</em> for dampness that might not necessarily be hot.
<em>Mushiatsui</em> emphasizes heat combined with humidity, creating an oppressive feeling. <em>Jimejime shita</em> focuses on the dampness and stickiness, which can occur without high temperatures.
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Using it to describe something that is actually wet.
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Use <em>nurete iru</em> (濡れている) for things that are wet from direct contact with liquid.
<em>Jimejime shita</em> describes the ambient condition of being damp or humid, not being soaked. Clothes that are wet from rain are <em>nurete iru</em>; clothes that feel damp and clammy after not drying properly are <em>jimejime shita</em>.
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Forgetting the 'na' when modifying a noun.
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<em>Jimejime shita</em> + Noun (e.g., <em>jimejime shita heya</em>).
As a na-adjective, <em>jimejime shita</em> requires the particle 'na' when it directly precedes a noun. Omitting it (e.g., <em>jimejime heya</em>) is grammatically incorrect.
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Using it too literally for a person's personality.
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Use it cautiously, understanding it implies gloominess or pessimism. More neutral descriptions might be better unless intending criticism.
While it can be used metaphorically for a gloomy person, it's a strong negative descriptor. It's safer to use it for weather or environments unless you intend to be critical of someone's disposition.
Tips
Emphasize the Discomfort
Remember that jimejime shita isn't just about moisture; it's about the unpleasant, sticky, and clammy feeling that comes with it. Use it when you want to express that discomfort.
Rhythm is Key
The repetition of 'jimejime' is crucial. Try to pronounce it with a rhythmic, slightly drawn-out feel, mimicking the slow drip of water or the clinging sensation of dampness.
Context Matters
Pay attention to the context. If someone is complaining about the weather, a room, or their clothes feeling sticky, jimejime shita is likely the word they're using.
Na-Adjective Power
As a na-adjective, jimejime shita can directly modify nouns (jimejime shita heya) or be used with desu/da (heya ga jimejime shite imasu). Practice both structures.
Seasonal Significance
This word is particularly relevant during Japan's rainy season (tsuyu). Understanding its connection to this season will help you grasp its cultural significance and common usage.
Distinguish from Mushiatsui
While both describe unpleasant humid conditions, mushiatsui specifically means hot and humid (muggy). Jimejime shita focuses on the dampness itself, which can occur without extreme heat.
Sound Association
Associate the sound 'jime-jime' with the sticky, slow dripping of water, creating a memorable link to the word's meaning of persistent, uncomfortable dampness.
Use in Daily Life
When you experience damp weather or a clammy environment, try to describe it using jimejime shita. Even if it's just to yourself, practicing will solidify its usage.
Beyond 'Humid'
Don't just translate it as 'humid.' Think of 'clammy' or 'unpleasantly sticky' to capture the full negative nuance of jimejime shita.
Describing Moods
While primarily physical, jimejime shita can describe a gloomy mood or atmosphere. Be aware this is a more advanced usage and can sound critical if applied to people.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'Jim' from 'Jim Beam' whiskey who always feels sticky and damp because he spills it everywhere. He's always saying, 'Jimejime, jimejime, this is so uncomfortable!' The repetition of 'Jim-e Jim-e' sounds like 'jimejime'.
Visual Association
Picture a grey, rainy day with water dripping down a window pane, leaving slimy trails. The trails look 'jimejime'. Alternatively, imagine yourself wearing a damp, heavy sweater on a hot day – that's the 'jimejime shita' feeling.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe three different situations where you would use jimejime shita. For example, the weather today, a basement room, or clothes that didn't dry properly. Focus on the feeling of discomfort it evokes.
Word Origin
The word jimejime (じめじめ) is considered an onomatopoeic or mimetic word. It imitates the sound or, more accurately, the feeling of dampness and clinging moisture. The repetition of 'jime' emphasizes the persistent and unpleasant nature of the dampness.
Original meaning: The original meaning is directly related to the sensation of something being persistently damp, sticky, and uncomfortable.
Japanese (native Japanese word, likely originating from imitative sounds)Cultural Context
While generally used to describe physical conditions, using 'jimejime shita' to describe people or their personalities can be considered rude or judgmental, implying they are gloomy, pessimistic, or unpleasant to be around.
In English, we have words like 'damp,' 'humid,' 'clammy,' and 'muggy.' While 'humid' can sometimes be neutral, 'clammy' and 'muggy' carry negative connotations similar to 'jimejime shita.' 'Damp' is quite close, but 'jimejime shita' often implies a more persistent and uncomfortable level of moisture.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Discussing the weather during Japan's rainy season (tsuyu).
- じめじめした天気ですね。
- 梅雨はいつもじめじめしています。
- じめじめした日が続きますね。
Describing an uncomfortable living space.
- この部屋はじめじめしている。
- 地下はじめじめした場所だ。
- 換気が悪いとじめじめする。
Talking about personal feelings or mood related to weather.
- じめじめした気分になる。
- じめじめした天気のせいで、元気が出ない。
- 気分転換に何かしたい。
Referring to laundry or clothing that hasn't dried properly.
- 洗濯物がじめじめしている。
- 乾かない衣類はじめじめする。
- 早く乾かさないとじめじめする。
Complaining about general discomfort due to moisture.
- 肌がじめじめする。
- 空気がじめじめしている。
- じめじめした感じが嫌だ。
Conversation Starters
"What do you think of the weather today? It feels quite じめじめした, doesn't it?"
"Do you have any tips for dealing with じめじめした weather during the summer?"
"Are there any places you've been to in Japan that felt particularly じめじめした?"
"How does じめじめした weather affect your mood or energy levels?"
"What's your favorite season in Japan, and why? I personally dislike the じめじめした days."
Journal Prompts
Describe a time when you experienced particularly じめじめした weather. What were you doing, and how did it make you feel?
Imagine you have to spend a week in a じめじめした environment. What would you do to make yourself more comfortable?
Write about how the じめじめした atmosphere of the rainy season in Japan influences your daily activities or your general outlook.
Compare and contrast the feeling of じめじめした weather with 蒸し暑い (mushiatsui) weather. Which do you find more unpleasant and why?
If you could invent a machine to eliminate じめじめした conditions, what would it do and how would it work?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsYes, jimejime shita almost always carries a negative connotation of discomfort and unpleasantness. It describes a sticky, clammy, or unpleasantly humid state, unlike neutral terms like 'humid' or 'moist' which can sometimes be neutral or even pleasant. Think of it as the kind of dampness that makes you feel sticky and a bit miserable.
The most common time is during Japan's rainy season (tsuyu), which typically falls from June to mid-July. It's also used to describe poorly ventilated rooms, basements, bathrooms, or any environment that feels persistently damp and clammy. You might also hear it used metaphorically to describe a gloomy mood or atmosphere.
Yes, but with caution. It can be used metaphorically to describe a person who is gloomy, pessimistic, or has a generally unpleasant and downbeat personality. However, this usage is quite critical and can be considered rude, so it's best to use it carefully and be aware of the strong negative implication.
Mushiatsui (蒸し暑い) specifically refers to hot and humid weather, emphasizing the oppressive combination of heat and moisture. Jimejime shita (じめじめした) focuses more on the dampness and clamminess itself, which can occur even without extreme heat. You can have jimejime shita weather that isn't necessarily hot, but mushiatsui is always hot and humid.
The pronunciation is /d͡ʑi.me.d͡ʑi.me ɕi.ta/. The key is the repetition of 'ji-me' (ジメジメ), which imitates the feeling of dampness. The 'shi-ta' (シタ) ending is standard for this adjective form. Try to say it with a slightly drawn-out, sticky rhythm to capture the meaning.
Yes, the verb form is jimejimeru (じめじめる) or jimejime suru (じめじめする), meaning 'to become damp' or 'to feel damp.' For example, 'The room is becoming damp' would be '部屋がじめじめしてくる (heya ga jimejime shite kuru).' The adjective form jimejime shita is more common for describing existing conditions.
Absolutely. You can describe clothes that didn't dry properly as jimejime shita irui (じめじめした衣類), or a book that got damp as jimejime shita hon (じめじめした本). It refers to the state of being damp and unpleasant to the touch.
Good equivalents include 'damp,' 'clammy,' and 'muggy.' 'Clammy' often captures the sticky, unpleasant feeling well. 'Muggy' is similar but usually implies heat as well. 'Damp' is a general term, but 'jimejime shita' usually implies a more uncomfortable level of dampness.
Always remember its negative connotation. If the air is just humid but pleasant, use shitsudo ga takai (湿度が高い). If it's hot and humid, mushiatsui (蒸し暑い) might be more appropriate. Only use jimejime shita when you want to convey a sense of discomfort due to clinging moisture.
Yes, Japanese is rich in mimetic (onomatopoeic and onomatopoeic-like) words! Examples include pikapika (sparkling), kirakira (twinkling), goro goro (rumbling), and fuwafuwa (fluffy). The repetition often intensifies the meaning or describes a continuous state.
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Summary
<em>Jimejime shita</em> (じめじめした) is a crucial na-adjective for describing uncomfortable, clinging dampness, frequently encountered during Japan's rainy season or in poorly ventilated spaces, implying a distinct lack of freshness.
- <em>Jimejime shita</em> means unpleasantly damp or humid.
- It's often used for weather during the rainy season.
- Also describes places that feel clammy and moist.
- Carries a negative connotation of discomfort.
Emphasize the Discomfort
Remember that jimejime shita isn't just about moisture; it's about the unpleasant, sticky, and clammy feeling that comes with it. Use it when you want to express that discomfort.
Rhythm is Key
The repetition of 'jimejime' is crucial. Try to pronounce it with a rhythmic, slightly drawn-out feel, mimicking the slow drip of water or the clinging sensation of dampness.
Context Matters
Pay attention to the context. If someone is complaining about the weather, a room, or their clothes feeling sticky, jimejime shita is likely the word they're using.
Na-Adjective Power
As a na-adjective, jimejime shita can directly modify nouns (jimejime shita heya) or be used with desu/da (heya ga jimejime shite imasu). Practice both structures.
Example
梅雨の時期は毎日じめじめしている。
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
More weather words
積もる
A2To pile up (e.g., snow).
のち
A2Later; afterwards (used in weather forecasts).
近づく
A2To approach; to come near (e.g., a storm).
避ける
B1To avoid; to dodge.
氷点下
A2Below freezing point; temperature below 0 degrees Celsius.
長靴
A2Rain boots; waterproof boots worn to protect feet from rain.
穏やかな
B1Calm; mild (na-adjective).
快晴
A2Clear skies; perfectly clear and sunny weather.
快適な
A2Comfortable; pleasant (na-adjective).
涼む
B1To cool oneself; to enjoy the cool air.