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おしゃべりな

B1 adjective #6,500 most common 10 min read

おしゃべりな

oshaberina Top 6,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips おしゃべりな in 30 Seconds

Explanation おしゃべりな in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners should focus on the basic meaning of 'oshaberi' as a way to describe a person who talks a lot. In simple Japanese, you can think of it as 'takusan hanasu hito' (a person who talks a lot). At this stage, it is easiest to use it in the 'Noun + desu' form, like 'Tanaka-san wa oshaberi desu' (Mr. Tanaka is talkative). This allows you to describe friends or family members in a very basic way. You should also recognize it as a word related to communication. While the 'na' adjective grammar might be slightly advanced for absolute beginners, understanding the core noun 'oshaberi' (chatting) is very helpful. You might hear it in phrases like 'Oshaberi wa tanoshii desu' (Chatting is fun). The goal for A1 is simply to associate the sound 'oshaberi' with the act of talking and the personality of being talkative. It is a useful word for simple self-introductions or describing classmates. For example, if you are asked 'Donna hito desu ka?' (What kind of person are they?), you can answer 'Oshaberi na hito desu' (They are a talkative person). This is a great building block for developing your descriptive vocabulary in Japanese. You don't need to worry about the subtle nuances yet; just focus on the fact that it means 'chatty.'

At the A2 level, you should start using 'oshaberi-na' as a proper na-adjective to modify nouns. You will learn to say things like 'oshaberi-na tomodachi' (a talkative friend) or 'oshaberi-na sensei' (a talkative teacher). You should also be able to form simple negative and past tense sentences. For example, 'Kare wa oshaberi janakatta' (He wasn't talkative) or 'Kanojo wa amari oshaberi dewa arimasen' (She is not very talkative). This level involves understanding the word in the context of daily routines and social interactions. You might use it to explain why a meeting took a long time or why you like a certain person. You should also begin to distinguish between 'oshaberi' (the noun/activity) and 'oshaberi-na' (the adjective/trait). For instance, 'Jugyou chuu no oshaberi' (chatting during class) vs 'Oshaberi-na gakusei' (a talkative student). At A2, you are building the ability to describe people's personalities in more detail, and 'oshaberi-na' is a key part of that. You might also encounter the word in simple reading passages about hobbies or social life. It's important to practice the 'na' connection correctly, as this is a fundamental part of Japanese grammar that starts to solidify at this level.

At the B1 level, you are expected to understand the nuances of 'oshaberi-na.' You should recognize that while it can be a friendly description, it can also imply that someone is a bit too loud or gossipy depending on the context. You will use it in more complex sentence structures, such as 'Oshaberi-na kanojo no okage de, paatii wa moriagatta' (Thanks to her being talkative, the party was lively). You should also be able to compare 'oshaberi-na' with other similar words like 'urusai' (noisy) or 'shizuka' (quiet). At this stage, you are moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to express opinions and observations about social dynamics. You might hear this word used in variety shows or dramas to describe specific character types. You should also be comfortable using the adverbial form or the noun form in various grammatical constructions, such as 'Oshaberi ni hana ga saku' (to have a blooming/lively conversation). B1 learners should also be aware of the social etiquette surrounding being 'oshaberi' in Japan—knowing that while it's great for social gatherings, it might be seen as a negative trait in formal or quiet environments. This level is about mastering the word's versatility and understanding how it fits into the broader cultural context of Japanese communication.

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of 'oshaberi-na' and be able to use it fluently in both casual and semi-formal contexts. You should understand its potential negative connotations, such as being 'kuchi ga karui' (loose-lipped/unable to keep secrets). You might use the word to analyze character traits in literature or to discuss social behavior in more depth. For example, 'Kare no oshaberi-na seikaku wa, eigyou no shigoto ni muiteiru' (His talkative personality is suited for sales work). At this level, you should also be familiar with more formal synonyms like 'jouzetsu-na' or 'taben-na' and know when to choose them over 'oshaberi-na' to adjust your register. You should be able to understand idiomatic expressions or metaphors involving chatting. B2 learners can also use 'oshaberi-na' to describe non-human things metaphorically, such as an 'oshaberi-na dezain' (a 'loud' or busy design), though this is more creative usage. You should be able to follow fast-paced conversations where 'oshaberi' is used as a springboard for jokes or social commentary. Your understanding should include the cultural nuance of 'reading the air' and how being 'oshaberi' can either help or hinder that process. You are now using the word not just to describe, but to evaluate and interpret social situations.

At the C1 level, your understanding of 'oshaberi-na' should be near-native. You can appreciate the subtle irony or sarcasm when the word is used in specific contexts. You are aware of its etymological roots and its relationship with other verbs of speaking. You can use 'oshaberi-na' in sophisticated arguments about Japanese social structures or communication styles. For instance, you might discuss the tension between the 'oshaberi' culture of Osaka and the more reserved 'tatemae' culture of other regions. You should be able to identify the word in high-level literature, where it might be used to subtly criticize a character's lack of depth or their tendency to hide behind words. You can also use it to describe abstract concepts, such as the 'oshaberi' of the mind (inner chatter). At C1, you are capable of using the word with precision, choosing it over 'kuchikazu ga ooi' or 'jouzetsu' to convey a very specific social flavor. You also understand the legal or professional implications of being 'oshaberi' in terms of confidentiality and trust. Your mastery includes the ability to use the word in wordplay, puns, or complex metaphors. You are not just a user of the language but an observer of its nuances, and 'oshaberi-na' serves as a tool for your nuanced expression.

At the C2 level, you possess a comprehensive and intuitive grasp of 'oshaberi-na.' You understand its historical evolution and its place within the vast lexicon of Japanese words for speaking. You can use it with total flexibility across all registers, from the most casual slang to high-level academic or literary discourse. You are aware of how the word's meaning has shifted over time and how it is perceived by different generations in Japan. You can analyze the use of 'oshaberi' in classical vs. modern Japanese media. In your own speech, you use 'oshaberi-na' with perfect timing and nuance, perhaps using it to self-deprecate or to gently poke fun at others in a way that aligns with Japanese social norms. You are also capable of translating the word into English or other languages while capturing all its subtle baggage, recognizing that 'talkative' is often an insufficient translation. You understand the psychological aspects of 'oshaberi' as a personality trait and can discuss it in the context of personality theory or linguistics. At this level, 'oshaberi-na' is just one small thread in the rich tapestry of your Japanese proficiency, which you weave with effortless precision and cultural depth.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

おしゃべりな in 30 Seconds

A common na-adjective meaning 'talkative' or 'chatty,' derived from the noun for 'chatting.'
Can carry both positive (sociable) and negative (gossipy/annoying) nuances depending on the context.
Frequently used to describe friends, classmates, or characters in media and literature.
Requires 'na' before nouns and 'da/desu' at the end of sentences; distinct from 'urusai' (noisy).

The Japanese word おしゃべりな (oshaberi-na) is a versatile na-adjective used to describe someone who enjoys talking, often at length or with great frequency. While it is frequently translated as 'talkative' or 'chatty,' its nuance can shift significantly depending on the social context and the speaker's intent. In a positive or neutral light, it describes a person who is sociable, outgoing, and capable of keeping a conversation lively. However, in more reserved social settings, it can carry a slight pejorative undertone, suggesting that someone talks too much, perhaps revealing secrets or dominating the conversation unnecessarily. Understanding this word requires looking at the root verb 喋る (shaberu), which simply means 'to talk' or 'to chat.' When transformed into the noun 'oshaberi' and then the na-adjective 'oshaberi-na,' it characterizes the individual's personality rather than just a temporary state of talking.

Social Nuance: In Japanese culture, which often values 'kuuki wo yomu' (reading the air) and silence, being labeled as 'oshaberi' can sometimes imply a lack of restraint. However, among friends, it is a common way to describe the 'life of the party.'
Grammatical Category: As a na-adjective, it requires the particle 'na' when preceding a noun (e.g., oshaberi-na hito) and 'da' or 'desu' when ending a sentence (e.g., kare wa oshaberi da).

彼女はとてもおしゃべりな人ですが、一緒にいて楽しいです。 (She is a very talkative person, but she is fun to be with.)

This word is ubiquitous in daily life, appearing in descriptions of classmates, coworkers, and even fictional characters. It is less formal than 'jouzetsu' (loquacious) and more descriptive of a personality trait than 'kuchikazu ga ooi' (talking a lot in a specific instance). When you use 'oshaberi-na,' you are identifying a core characteristic of the person's behavior—someone who finds joy in the act of verbal communication. In professional environments, one might use this word with caution. Calling a superior 'oshaberi-na' could be seen as disrespectful, as it highlights a potential lack of professional gravity. Conversely, in a creative or sales-oriented field, being 'oshaberi-na' might be seen as a strength, indicating that the person is persuasive and approachable. The word often evokes the image of someone leaning in, eyes bright, sharing stories or gossip with enthusiasm. It captures the rhythmic, continuous flow of speech that defines a chatty individual.

あのお店の店員さんはおしゃべりなので、買い物に時間がかかります。 (The clerk at that shop is talkative, so shopping takes a long time.)

Comparative Usage: Compared to 'urusai' (noisy/annoying), 'oshaberi-na' focuses on the quantity of words rather than the volume or the irritation level, though a talkative person can certainly become 'urusai' if they don't stop.

Overall, 'oshaberi-na' is an essential word for describing social dynamics and personality types in Japan. It bridges the gap between simple description and subtle social commentary, making it a key term for intermediate learners to master.

Using おしゃべりな correctly involves understanding its role as a na-adjective and its flexibility in various sentence structures. The most straightforward use is modifying a noun directly. In this case, 'na' acts as the bridge. For example, 'oshaberi-na kodomo' (a talkative child) or 'oshaberi-na takushii untenshu' (a chatty taxi driver). This structure is perfect for introducing a character or setting a scene.

Direct Modification: [Adjective] + な + [Noun]. Example: おしゃべりな友達 (A talkative friend).

When you want to state that someone *is* talkative, you use the 'da' or 'desu' form. 'Kare wa oshaberi da' (He is talkative). To make it more polite, use 'desu.' To make it negative, you say 'oshaberi dewa arimasen' or 'oshaberi janai.' This flexibility allows you to describe people's personalities across different levels of formality.

彼はクラスで一番おしゃべりな生徒です。 (He is the most talkative student in the class.)

Another common pattern involves using 'oshaberi' as a noun. While 'oshaberi-na' is the adjective, 'oshaberi' itself can mean 'chatting' or 'a talkative person.' For instance, 'Oshaberi ga suki desu' (I like chatting). This noun usage is very common in casual conversation. However, when you specifically want to describe a person's trait, the na-adjective form is more precise. In more complex sentences, you might see 'oshaberi' combined with verbs. 'Oshaberi wo tsuzukeru' (to continue chatting) or 'oshaberi ni muchuu ni naru' (to be absorbed in chatting). These phrases highlight the activity rather than the personality trait. It's also important to note the word's relationship with gossip. 'Oshaberi' can sometimes refer to 'rumors' or 'idle talk.' Therefore, 'oshaberi-na hito' might occasionally imply someone who can't keep a secret.

あまりおしゃべりな人には秘密を教えないほうがいい。 (It's better not to tell secrets to someone who is too talkative.)

Conjunctions: When connecting with other adjectives, use 'de.' Example: 彼は明るくておしゃべりだ (He is bright and talkative).

When describing a situation where people are talking a lot, you might use the adverbial form or the noun form. However, 'oshaberi-na' remains the primary choice for characterizing a person. If you are describing a parrot, you would say 'oshaberi-na oumu.' If you are describing a radio host, you might say 'oshaberi-na paasonariti.' The word covers a wide range of 'talkers,' from the annoying to the entertaining. By practicing these patterns, you can accurately depict people and their social behaviors in Japanese.

You will encounter おしゃべりな in a variety of real-world settings, from the classroom to the television screen. In Japanese media, specifically variety shows (baraeti bangumi), the term is frequently used to describe guests or hosts who are particularly witty and verbose. A 'talkative' celebrity is often prized for their ability to fill 'dead air' and keep the audience engaged. You might hear a host say, 'Kyou no gesuto wa hontou ni oshaberi desu ne!' (Today's guest is really talkative, isn't he!).

Television and Media: Variety shows often label characters as 'oshaberi kyara' (the talkative character), highlighting their role as the primary source of dialogue and humor.

In school environments, teachers often use this word—sometimes as a mild reprimand. 'Jugyou chuu ni oshaberi shinai!' (Don't chat during class!) is a classic phrase. Here, 'oshaberi' is used as a noun/verb, but the adjective 'oshaberi-na' might be used in a student's report card to describe their social nature. Peers use it to describe the person who always has a story to tell during lunch break.

隣の席のおしゃべりな女の子のせいで、勉強に集中できない。 (I can't concentrate on my studies because of the talkative girl in the next seat.)

In the workplace, 'oshaberi' can be a double-edged sword. While it facilitates networking and 'nomikai' (drinking party) culture, being too 'oshaberi-na' during work hours is frowned upon. You might hear coworkers gossiping: 'Tanaka-san wa chotto oshaberi sugiru yo ne' (Tanaka is a bit too talkative, right?). In this context, it often implies that the person spends more time talking than working. In literature and manga, 'oshaberi-na' is a standard way to flesh out a character's personality. A 'chatty neighbor' is a common trope (oshaberi-na kinjo no obasan), often serving as the source of local rumors. This cultural archetype is deeply embedded in Japanese storytelling.

そのおしゃべりな老人は、村の歴史について何時間も話した。 (The talkative old man spoke for hours about the village's history.)

Everyday Service: Taxi drivers in Japan are sometimes stereotyped as being either very silent or very talkative. An 'oshaberi-na untenshu' can make a long ride more interesting or, depending on your mood, more tiring.

Whether it's a warning from a teacher or a description of a friendly neighbor, 'oshaberi-na' is a word that captures the essence of human interaction in Japan.

One of the most common mistakes learners make with おしゃべりな is confusing its part of speech. Because 'oshaberi' is a noun, learners often forget to add 'na' when using it as an adjective. Saying 'oshaberi hito' is grammatically incorrect; it must be 'oshaberi-na hito.' This is a classic pitfall for those transitioning from basic noun usage to more descriptive adjective usage.

The 'Na' Omission: Incorrect: 彼はとてもおしゃべり人だ (He is a very talkative person). Correct: 彼はとてもおしゃべりな人だ.

Another mistake involves the nuance of the word. While 'oshaberi-na' means 'talkative,' it doesn't necessarily mean 'eloquent' or 'articulate.' For that, words like 'koukana' (articulate) or 'jouzetsu-na' (loquacious) are better. Using 'oshaberi-na' to describe a brilliant public speaker might sound slightly off, as it implies a more casual, perhaps even mindless, type of talking.

彼はおしゃべりなので、秘密を漏らしてしまうかもしれない。 (Because he is talkative, he might leak secrets.)

Learners also sometimes confuse 'oshaberi-na' with 'urusai' (noisy). While a talkative person can be noisy, 'urusai' is much more negative and refers to the sound level or the annoyance caused. 'Oshaberi-na' is more about the personality trait of liking to talk. You can be 'oshaberi-na' in a quiet, whispering way, which would not be 'urusai.' A further error is using 'oshaberi-na' in highly formal contexts where a more professional term is required. In a business report, instead of saying a client is 'oshaberi-na,' you might say they are 'sekkyoku-teki ni iken wo noberu' (actively state their opinions). 'Oshaberi' has a colloquial feel that might undermine the professionalism of a formal document.

× 彼はビジネスの場でおしゃべりな印象を与えた。 (He gave a talkative impression in a business setting - sounds a bit too casual.)

Confusion with 'Hanasu': 'Hanasu' is the general verb for 'to speak.' 'Oshaberi' is more specifically 'chatting.' Don't use 'oshaberi' when you mean 'to give a formal speech.'

By being mindful of these distinctions, you can avoid common errors and use 'oshaberi-na' with the precision of a native speaker.

When you want to describe someone who talks a lot, おしゃべりな is your go-to word, but several alternatives offer different shades of meaning. Understanding these can help you fine-tune your Japanese expression.

口数が多い (Kuchikazu ga ooi): Literally 'the number of mouth-parts is many.' This is a more neutral or slightly formal way to say someone is talkative. It describes the quantity of speech without the potentially 'gossipy' nuance of 'oshaberi.'
饒舌な (Jouzetsu-na): A more literary and sophisticated term. It often implies that someone is not just talkative, but perhaps excessively so, or very skilled with words. It's common in novels.

彼は酒が入ると、急に饒舌な男に変わる。 (When he drinks, he suddenly turns into a loquacious man.)

If you want to emphasize that someone is annoying with their talking, you might use 'urusai' (noisy/annoying) or 'kudoi' (wordy/repetitive). 'Kudoi' is specifically used when someone says the same thing over and over, making the listener tired. On the other hand, if you want to be positive, you could use 'akaruikute hanashizuki' (bright and fond of talking).

多弁な (Taben-na): Another formal/academic term for talkative. It is often used in psychological or technical descriptions of behavior.
ぺちゃくちゃ (Pechakucha): An onomatopoeic word for the sound of constant chatting. 'Pechakucha shaberu' means to chatter away incessantly.

休み時間、教室では生徒たちがぺちゃくちゃとおしゃべりしていた。 (During the break, students were chattering away in the classroom.)

In summary, while 'oshaberi-na' is the most common and versatile, choosing 'jouzetsu-na' for a literary feel or 'kuchikazu ga ooi' for a more objective observation can add depth to your Japanese. Knowing when to use 'pechakucha' for its descriptive sound can also make your speech sound more native and expressive.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While 'shaberu' is the verb, 'oshaberi' became a popular noun for 'gossip' or 'idle talk' in the early 20th century, reflecting the social nature of urban life in Japan.

Pronunciation Guide

UK o-sha-be-ri-na

US o-sha-be-ri-na

Japanese is pitch-accented. For 'oshaberi,' the pitch typically rises on 'sha' and stays high until 'ri,' then drops for 'na.'

Rhymes With

Taberi-na (eating-na) Suberi-na (sliding-na) Haberi-na (archaic verb form) Nameri-na (smooth-na) Kameri-na (camera-na - non-standard) Hajimeri-na (starting-na - non-standard) Kimeri-na (deciding-na - non-standard) Tomari-na (stopping-na)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'sha' as 'see-ya'. It should be a single 'sh' sound.
Using a hard English 'r' for 'ri'.
Over-emphasizing the 'o' at the beginning.
Forgetting the 'na' when modifying a noun.
Confusing the pitch accent with English-style stress.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji for 'shaberu' (喋る) is N1 level, but 'oshaberi' is almost always written in hiragana, making it easy to read.

Writing 1/5

Very easy to write in hiragana.

Speaking 2/5

Simple pronunciation, but requires the 'na' adjective grammar.

Listening 1/5

Distinct sound that is easy to recognize in conversation.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

喋る (shaberu) 話す (hanasu) 人 (hito) 友達 (tomodachi) 性格 (seikaku)

Learn Next

無口な (mukuchi-na) 饒舌な (jouzetsu-na) 社交的な (shakouteki-na) 明るい (akarui) うるさい (urusai)

Advanced

寡黙 (kamoku) 能弁 (nouben) 多弁 (taben) 口が軽い (kuchi ga karui) 口が堅い (kuchi ga katai)

Grammar to Know

Na-Adjective Modification

おしゃべりな＋名詞 (Noun)

Adjective + Sugiru (Too much)

おしゃべりすぎる (Too talkative)

Adjective + Ni naru (Become)

おしゃべりになる (Become talkative)

Adjective + De (Connection)

おしゃべりで明るい (Talkative and bright)

Nominalizing with 'Koto'

おしゃべりなことは良いことだ。

Examples by Level

田中さんはおしゃべりな人です。

Mr. Tanaka is a talkative person.

Uses 'na' to connect the adjective to the noun 'hito'.

私のお母さんはおしゃべりです。

My mother is talkative.

Simple 'desu' ending after the adjective.

あの子はおしゃべりだね。

That child is talkative, isn't he?

Casual 'da' ending with the particle 'ne'.

おしゃべりな友達がいます。

I have a talkative friend.

Modifying the noun 'tomodachi'.

彼はあまりおしゃべりではありません。

He is not very talkative.

Negative form 'dewa arimasen'.

おしゃべりなオウムを見ました。

I saw a talkative parrot.

Using 'na' to describe an animal.

彼女はいつもおしゃべりです。

She is always talkative.

Adverb 'itsumo' (always) used with the adjective.

おしゃべりな人は好きですか？

Do you like talkative people?

Question form using 'ka'.

おしゃべりな人と話すのは楽しいです。

Talking with a talkative person is fun.

Using the nominalizer 'no' to make 'talking' the subject.

弟はおしゃべりな性格です。

My younger brother has a talkative personality.

Modifying 'seikaku' (personality).

昨日のタクシーの運転手さんは、とてもおしゃべりな人でした。

Yesterday's taxi driver was a very talkative person.

Past tense 'deshita'.

彼女はおしゃべりだけど、親切です。

She is talkative, but she is kind.

Using 'dakedo' (but) to connect two traits.

おしゃべりな人が多すぎて、うるさいです。

There are too many talkative people, so it's noisy.

Using 'sugiru' (too much) with the adjective.

彼はクラスで一番おしゃべりな男の子です。

He is the most talkative boy in the class.

Superlative 'ichiban' (number one/most).

おしゃべりな人とは秘密の話ができません。

I can't talk about secrets with a talkative person.

Using 'to wa' to indicate the person being discussed.

もっとおしゃべりな人になりたいです。

I want to become a more talkative person.

Using 'ni naritai' (want to become).

おしゃべりな彼女のおかげで、場の空気が和んだ。

Thanks to her being talkative, the atmosphere of the place softened.

Using 'no okage de' (thanks to).

彼は自分がおしゃべりなことを自覚していない。

He is not aware that he is talkative.

Using 'koto' to nominalize the adjective phrase.

おしゃべりなのもいいけれど、時には人の話を聞くことも大切だ。

Being talkative is fine, but sometimes listening to others is also important.

Using 'no mo ii keredo' (is also okay but).

隣の席におしゃべりな人が座ると、仕事がはかどらない。

When a talkative person sits in the next seat, work doesn't progress.

Using the conditional 'to' (when/if).

おしゃべりな人だと思われないように、静かにしていた。

I stayed quiet so that I wouldn't be thought of as a talkative person.

Using 'you ni' to express purpose/intent.

そのおしゃべりな老人は、若かりし頃の冒険談を語ってくれた。

The talkative old man told us stories of his adventures in his youth.

Descriptive use of 'oshaberi-na' for an elderly person.

彼女は普段は静かだが、お酒を飲むとおしゃべりになる。

She is usually quiet, but she becomes talkative when she drinks alcohol.

Using 'ni naru' to show a change in state.

おしゃべりな性格が災いして、うっかり秘密を漏らしてしまった。

His talkative personality caused trouble, and he accidentally leaked a secret.

Using 'wazawai shite' (causing misfortune/trouble).

彼女のおしゃべりな性質は、接客業においては大きな武器になる。

Her talkative nature becomes a great weapon in the service industry.

Using 'ni oite wa' (in/regarding).

おしゃべりな人ほど、実は寂しがり屋なことが多いという説がある。

There is a theory that the more talkative a person is, the more they are actually prone to loneliness.

Using 'hodo' (the more... the more).

彼は非常におしゃべりな男で、一度話し始めると止まらない。

He is an extremely talkative man; once he starts talking, he doesn't stop.

Using 'hajimeru to tomaranai' (once starts, doesn't stop).

おしゃべりな彼が沈黙しているのは、何かが起きた証拠だ。

The fact that the talkative him is silent is proof that something has happened.

Using 'shiteiru no wa... shouko da' (the fact that... is proof).

その司会者のおしゃべりなトークが、番組の人気を支えている。

The host's talkative banter supports the program's popularity.

Using 'oshaberi-na' to describe a specific style of 'tooku' (talk/banter).

おしゃべりな隣人の噂話には、いつも驚かされる。

I am always surprised by the gossip of my talkative neighbor.

Passive form 'odorakasareru' (to be surprised by).

彼は決しておしゃべりな方ではないが、自分の専門分野については熱く語る。

He is by no means a talkative person, but he speaks passionately about his field of expertise.

Using 'hou dewa nai' (is not the type/way).

おしゃべりな人との付き合い方に、最近ようやく慣れてきた。

I have finally gotten used to how to deal with talkative people lately.

Using 'tsukiaikata' (how to associate/deal with).

彼の饒舌さはおしゃべりな範疇を超え、もはや一種のパフォーマンスだ。

His loquaciousness exceeds the category of being talkative and is now a kind of performance.

Comparing 'jouzetsu' and 'oshaberi' using 'hanchuu' (category).

おしゃべりな人間が必ずしも社交的であるとは限らない、という心理学的な指摘がある。

There is a psychological point that a talkative person is not necessarily social.

Using 'kanarazushimo... to wa kagiranai' (not necessarily).

彼女の過度におしゃべりな態度は、内面の不安を隠すための防衛本能かもしれない。

Her excessively talkative attitude might be a defense instinct to hide inner anxiety.

Using 'kakusu tame no' (for the purpose of hiding).

その小説の主人公は、おしゃべりな語り口で読者を物語の世界へと引き込んでいく。

The protagonist of that novel draws readers into the world of the story with a talkative narrative style.

Describing a 'katariguchi' (narrative style).

沈黙を恐れるあまりにおしゃべりな振る舞いをしてしまうのは、現代人の特徴かもしれない。

Behaving in a talkative way due to a fear of silence might be a characteristic of modern people.

Using 'amari ni' (excessively/too much).

おしゃべりなことで知られる彼だが、肝心な時には口を閉ざす。

He is known for being talkative, but he shuts his mouth at crucial moments.

Using 'koto de shirareru' (known for).

政治家にとって、おしゃべりなことは時には美徳であり、時には致命的な欠陥となる。

For a politician, being talkative is sometimes a virtue and sometimes a fatal flaw.

Using 'bitoku' (virtue) and 'kekkan' (flaw).

彼女のおしゃべりな性質は、家族からの遺伝的な要素も大きいのだろう。

Her talkative nature probably has a large genetic component from her family.

Using 'iden-teki na youso' (genetic element).

彼の言説はおしゃべりな饒舌さを装いつつ、その実、極めて計算された沈黙を含んでいる。

While his discourse feigns a talkative loquaciousness, in reality, it contains extremely calculated silences.

Sophisticated use of 'yosoou' (to feign/pretend).

おしゃべりな大衆の喧騒の中にこそ、真実が隠されていると彼は主張した。

He argued that truth is hidden precisely within the clamor of the talkative masses.

Using 'koso' for strong emphasis.

言語の壁を超えて、おしゃべりな精神は万国共通の人間性を体現している。

Transcending language barriers, a talkative spirit embodies a universal humanity.

Abstract usage of 'oshaberi-na seishin' (talkative spirit).

その批評家のおしゃべりな文体は、読者に知的な遊戯としての読書を強いる。

The critic's talkative writing style forces the reader to engage in reading as an intellectual game.

Describing a 'buntai' (writing style).

おしゃべりなことと、真に言葉を尽くすことの間には、深淵な隔たりがある。

There is a profound gap between being talkative and truly exhausting one's words.

Using 'aida ni wa... hedatari ga aru' (there is a gap between).

沈黙の美徳を説く文化において、おしゃべりな存在は常に異端としての魅力を放つ。

In a culture that preaches the virtue of silence, a talkative existence always exudes the charm of a heretic.

Using 'itan' (heretic/unorthodox).

彼女の筆致はおしゃべりなまでに詳細で、情景が目の前に浮かび上がるようだった。

Her brushwork was so detailed it was almost talkative, as if the scene were appearing before one's eyes.

Using 'made ni' to indicate degree (to the point of being...).

おしゃべりな自己を解体し、静寂の中に真理を見出す修行が始まった。

The training to deconstruct the talkative self and find truth within the silence began.

Using 'oshaberi-na jiko' (talkative self) in a philosophical context.

Common Collocations

おしゃべりな性格

おしゃべりな人

おしゃべりな友達

おしゃべりな口

おしゃべりなオウム

おしゃべりな隣人

おしゃべりなタクシー運転手

おしゃべりなクラスメート

おしゃべりな司会者

おしゃべりな一面

Common Phrases

おしゃべりに花が咲く

— To have a very lively and blooming conversation.

カフェでおしゃべりに花が咲いた。

おしゃべりをやめる

— To stop chatting.

先生が来たのでおしゃべりをやめた。

おしゃべりに夢中になる

— To be completely absorbed in chatting.

おしゃべりに夢中になって電車を乗り過ごした。

おしゃべりを楽しむ

— To enjoy chatting.

週末は友達とおしゃべりを楽しんだ。

おしゃべりが止まらない

— Cannot stop talking/chatting.

彼女はおしゃべりが止まらない。

おしゃべりに付き合う

— To keep someone company in their chatting.

祖母のおしゃべりに一晩中付き合った。

おしゃべりな性質

— A talkative nature or disposition.

彼のおしゃべりな性質は父親譲りだ。

おしゃべり禁止

— No talking/chatting allowed.

図書館内はおしゃべり禁止です。

おしゃべりな奴

— A talkative guy (casual/rough).

あいつは本当におしゃべりな奴だ。

おしゃべりな連中

— A talkative group of people.

あのおしゃべりな連中には困ったものだ。

Often Confused With

おしゃべりな vs うるさい (urusai)

Urusai means noisy/annoying. Oshaberi-na is about the personality trait of talking a lot.

おしゃべりな vs 元気な (genki-na)

Genki-na means energetic. While talkative people are often energetic, the words describe different things.

おしゃべりな vs 饒舌な (jouzetsu-na)

Jouzetsu-na is more literary and can imply a higher level of eloquence or excessive talking.

Idioms & Expressions

"おしゃべりは銀、沈黙は金"

— Speech is silver, silence is golden. (Japanese version of the proverb).

おしゃべりは銀、沈黙は金というが、彼は話しすぎだ。

Literary

"口に戸は立てられぬ"

— You cannot put a door on someone's mouth (Gossip spreads easily).

おしゃべりな人が多いから、口に戸は立てられぬものだ。

Common

"壁に耳あり障子に目あり"

— Walls have ears, doors have eyes (Be careful what you say).

おしゃべりな彼には内緒だ。壁に耳あり障子に目ありだよ。

Common

"口は災いの元"

— The mouth is the source of disaster (Talking too much leads to trouble).

おしゃべりな彼は、口は災いの元という言葉を忘れている。

Common

"舌の根の乾かぬうちに"

— Before the root of the tongue is dry (Changing one's story immediately).

おしゃべりな彼は、舌の根の乾かぬうちに前と言っていることが違う。

Common

"立て板に水"

— Like water flowing down a standing board (Speaking fluently and rapidly).

彼のおしゃべりはまるで立て板に水のようだ。

Positive

"口八丁手八丁"

— Good with both words and deeds (often implies being a smooth talker).

彼はおしゃべりなだけでなく、口八丁手八丁な男だ。

Informal

"阿吽の呼吸"

— Perfect synchronization (The opposite of needing to be talkative).

おしゃべりしなくても、彼らには阿吽の呼吸がある。

Formal

"一を聞いて十を知る"

— Hear one, know ten (Understanding without much talk).

おしゃべりな説明は不要だ。彼は一を聞いて十を知る人だ。

Formal

"饒舌は知恵の欠如"

— Loquacity is a lack of wisdom (A more philosophical take).

おしゃべりな人を見ると、饒舌は知恵の欠如という言葉を思い出す。

Literary

Easily Confused

おしゃべりな vs 話す (hanasu)

Both relate to speaking.

Hanasu is the general verb 'to speak.' Oshaberi is the specific act of 'chatting.'

Hanasu koto ga nai (Nothing to say) vs Oshaberi wo suru (To chat).

おしゃべりな vs 喋る (shaberu)

It's the root verb.

Shaberu is the action. Oshaberi is the noun or adjective.

Yoku shaberu (Talks a lot) vs Oshaberi-na hito (A talkative person).

おしゃべりな vs 口が軽い (kuchi ga karui)

Both imply talking a lot.

Kuchi ga karui specifically means someone can't keep secrets. Oshaberi-na is more general.

Kare wa oshaberi dakedo, kuchi wa katai (He is talkative but keeps secrets).

おしゃべりな vs 騒がしい (sawagashii)

Both relate to noise/activity.

Sawagashii is about a place being noisy or boisterous. Oshaberi is about a person talking.

Sawagashii kyoushitsu (A noisy classroom) vs Oshaberi-na gakusei (A talkative student).

おしゃべりな vs 賑やかな (nigiyaka-na)

Lively people are often talkative.

Nigiyaka-na means lively/bustling. Oshaberi-na is strictly about speech.

Nigiyaka-na paatii (A lively party) vs Oshaberi-na hito (A talkative person).

Sentence Patterns

[Person] wa oshaberi desu.

Kare wa oshaberi desu.

Oshaberi-na [Noun] desu.

Oshaberi-na inu desu.

Oshaberi-na node [Result].

Oshaberi-na node, tomodachi ga ooi desu.

Oshaberi-na [Noun] ni [Action].

Oshaberi-na hito ni hanashikakerareta.

[Person] wa oshaberi-na hou da.

Kanojo wa oshaberi-na hou da.

Oshaberi-na seikaku wo [Verb].

Oshaberi-na seikaku wo naoshitai.

Oshaberi-na amari [Result].

Oshaberi-na amari, himitsu wo morashita.

Oshaberi-na [Abstract Noun].

Oshaberi-na gogo no hitotoki.

Word Family

Nouns

おしゃべり (chatter/talkative person)

しゃべり (speaking style)

Verbs

喋る (shaberu - to talk/chat)

Adjectives

おしゃべりな (talkative)

話し好き (fond of talking)

口数 (number of words)

饒舌 (loquacity)

無口 (taciturnity)

多弁 (verbosity)

How to Use It

frequency

Very high in daily conversation and media.

Common Mistakes

おしゃべり人 (Oshaberi hito) → おしゃべりな人 (Oshaberi-na hito)
You must use 'na' to connect a na-adjective to a noun.
おしゃべりい (Oshaberi-i) → おしゃべりな (Oshaberi-na)
Learners sometimes confuse na-adjectives with i-adjectives. 'Oshaberi' does not end in 'i' as an adjective.
Using 'oshaberi' for a formal speech. → Using 'enzetsu' or 'hanashi'.
'Oshaberi' is for casual chatting only.
おしゃべりをしますな人 (Oshaberi wo shimasu na hito) → おしゃべりな人 (Oshaberi-na hito)
Don't try to use the verb form to describe the personality trait directly like this.
Confusing 'oshaberi' with 'urusai'. → Use 'oshaberi' for the trait, 'urusai' for the annoyance.
A talkative person isn't always annoying, but 'urusai' always is.

Tips

Connecting with 'Na'

Always remember that 'oshaberi' is a na-adjective. When you want to say 'a talkative person,' you must say 'oshaberi-na hito.' Omitting the 'na' is a very common mistake for beginners.

Check the Air

In Japan, 'reading the air' (kuuki wo yomu) is important. Being 'oshaberi-na' can be a great social asset, but ensure you aren't dominating the conversation or being 'urusai' (noisy).

Noun vs. Adjective

'Oshaberi' (noun) is for the act of chatting. 'Oshaberi-na' (adjective) is for the personality trait. Use the noun for 'I like chatting' (Oshaberi ga suki) and the adjective for 'I am talkative' (Watashi wa oshaberi-na hito desu).

Regional Differences

People from Osaka are stereotypically known as being more 'oshaberi' and witty. You might hear the word used more as a compliment there than in other more reserved parts of Japan.

Negative Form

To say someone is NOT talkative, use 'oshaberi janai' (casual) or 'oshaberi dewa arimasen' (polite). It's a useful way to describe a quiet personality.

Using with Friends

Among friends, calling someone 'oshaberi' is usually fine and seen as a joke or a friendly observation. 'Oshaberi-san' is a cute way to address a chatty friend.

Intensifiers

Use 'totemo' (very) or 'sugoku' (really) to emphasize how talkative someone is. 'Sugoku oshaberi-na hito' sounds very natural in casual conversation.

Hiragana Preference

Stick to hiragana for 'oshaberi.' Even though kanji exists, hiragana is the standard and makes your Japanese look more natural and modern.

Anime Characters

Look for the 'oshaberi' characters in anime. They are usually the ones who talk fast, use a lot of slang, and provide the comedy. They are great for listening practice.

Contextual Clues

If someone says 'oshaberi' with a sigh, they probably mean the person is talking too much. If they say it with a laugh, they probably find the person entertaining.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'O-SHAre-BE-RI'. A 'SHARP' 'BERRY' that keeps popping (talking) in your mouth. 'O' (Oh!) 'SHARP' 'BERRY' is talkative!

Visual Association

Imagine a parrot wearing a tiny hat (oshaberi-na oumu) that won't stop telling you about its day.

Word Web

Talkative Chatty Social Gossip Loud Friendly Eloquent Verbal

Challenge

Try to describe three people you know using 'oshaberi-na,' 'mukuchi-na' (quiet), and 'akaruikute hanashizuki' (bright and talkative).

Word Origin

Derived from the verb 喋る (shaberu), which has been used since the Edo period to mean 'to talk.' The 'o' is a prefix that often adds a sense of familiarity or politeness, though here it has become part of the standard word.

Original meaning: The root 'shaberu' likely comes from onomatopoeic origins mimicking the sound of rapid speech.

Japanese (Japonic).

Cultural Context

Be careful when calling a superior or an elder 'oshaberi-na' as it can sound slightly childish or disrespectful. Use 'kuchikazu ga ooi' for a more neutral tone.

Similar to 'chatty' in the UK or 'talkative' in the US, but with a stronger potential for 'gossip' nuance.

Oshaberi Kukkingu (TV Show) Oshaberi na Tamago (Children's book) Oshaberi na Shitai (Mystery novel title)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Describing a friend

おしゃべりな友達
一緒にいて楽しい
話が止まらない
面白い人

In a classroom

おしゃべり禁止
静かにしてください
おしゃべりな生徒
先生に怒られる

At a party

おしゃべりを楽しむ
話が弾む
賑やかな雰囲気
おしゃべりに花が咲く

Professional settings

おしゃべりな同僚
仕事に集中できない
口が軽い
情報の漏洩

Describing pets

おしゃべりな鳥
言葉を覚える
賑やかなペット
可愛いオウム

Conversation Starters

"あなたは自分がおしゃべりな方だと思いますか？ (Do you think you are a talkative person?)"

"周りにおしゃべりな人はいますか？ (Are there any talkative people around you?)"

"おしゃべりな人と静かな人、どちらと一緒にいるのが好きですか？ (Do you like being with talkative people or quiet people better?)"

"おしゃべりな性格は、仕事に役立つと思いますか？ (Do you think a talkative personality is useful for work?)"

"日本のタクシー運転手さんはおしゃべりだと思いますか？ (Do you think Japanese taxi drivers are talkative?)"

Journal Prompts

今日会ったおしゃべりな人について書いてください。 (Write about a talkative person you met today.)

もしあなたがおしゃべりなオウムを飼っていたら、何を教えますか？ (If you had a talkative parrot, what would you teach it?)

おしゃべりなことの長所と短所について考えてみましょう。 (Think about the pros and cons of being talkative.)

あなたが一番おしゃべりになるのはどんな時ですか？ (When do you become the most talkative?)

「おしゃべりは銀、沈黙は金」という言葉についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the saying 'Speech is silver, silence is golden'?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, it is not always negative. It can be used affectionately for a friendly or social person. However, in quiet environments, it can imply someone is annoying or talks too much. Context and tone of voice are key to determining the nuance.

No, 'oshaberi' specifically refers to casual chatting or small talk. For a formal speech, you should use 'enzetsu' (speech) or 'kouen' (lecture). Using 'oshaberi' for a serious presentation would be inappropriate and sound like you are belittling the speech.

'Shaberu' is the verb meaning 'to talk' or 'to chat.' 'Oshaberi' is a noun meaning 'chatter' or 'a talkative person,' and 'oshaberi-na' is the adjective form. For example, 'Kare wa yoku shaberu' (He talks a lot) vs 'Kare wa oshaberi-na hito da' (He is a talkative person).

You can use 'oshaberi-san' (polite/friendly) or 'oshaberi-ya' (more casual). 'Oshaberi-na hito' is the most standard way to express this concept. There isn't a single direct equivalent for 'chatterbox' that isn't just a variation of 'oshaberi'.

Yes, it is commonly used for animals that make a lot of noise or 'talk,' like parrots (oshaberi-na oumu). It personifies the animal, suggesting they are trying to communicate or are just very vocal.

While it can be written in kanji as 御喋り, it is almost always written in hiragana as おしゃべり in modern Japanese. Using the kanji can make it look very formal or old-fashioned, which often contradicts the casual nature of the word.

Calling someone 'oshaberi-na' directly can be risky. A more polite way to describe a talkative person is to say 'hanashizuki' (fond of talking) or 'kuchikazu ga ooi' (has many words). These sound more like objective observations than personality judgments.

Metaphorically, yes. An 'oshaberi-na hon' could mean a book that is very wordy or has a lot of dialogue. However, this is a more creative or literary use of the word and is not common in everyday speech.

The most common opposite is 'mukuchi-na' (silent/taciturn). 'Shizuka-na' (quiet) can also be used, though it is more general. 'Kamoku-na' is a more formal and positive way to describe someone who doesn't talk much.

It can. In many contexts, 'oshaberi' implies the sharing of rumors or idle talk about others. If you say 'Oshaberi wa yamete' (Stop chatting), it might mean 'Stop gossiping' depending on what the people are talking about.