Entry
のうのう
nounou
のうのう (nounou) describes a state of being completely carefree, comfortable, and without worries.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
This word refers to living a comfortable life free from hardship. However, it frequently carries a critical or negative nuance, describing someone who is inappropriately relaxed, lacking urgency, or acting shamelessly carefree in a serious situation.
- living carefreely
- inappropriately relaxed (negative)
Sense Map
Living Carefreely
Living comfortably without any worries or hardships.
田舎でのうのうと暮らす
Inappropriately Relaxed
Being careless or relaxed in a situation that requires seriousness or urgency.
のうのうとしている場合ではない
Usage Note
How to Use
のうのうと + verb
Used as an adverb to modify verbs related to lifestyle or spending time (like 暮らす, 生きる, 過ごす).
のうのうとする
Verb form meaning 'to be inappropriately relaxed', often used in the continuous form (のうのうとしている) as a criticism.
のうのうとしている
How to Use
Common Phrases
のうのうと暮らす
to live carefreely
のうのうと生きる
to live at ease
のうのうとしている
to be shamelessly relaxed
のうのうと過ごす
to spend time comfortably
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| Describing a comfortable life | neutral | Can be used for someone enjoying life without financial or mental hardship. |
| Reacting to a crisis or failure | negative | Used to criticize people who show no guilt or fail to take action when there is a serious problem. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
のんびり のんびり / nearby | For general positive or neutral relaxation. | Lacks the negative or shameless nuance of nounou. | 温泉でのんびりする |
ゆったり ゆったり / nearby | For a comfortable, calm feeling or spaciousness. | Focuses on physical or mental comfort, not on a lack of responsibility. | ゆったりとソファに座る |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using 'nounou' to describe your relaxing weekend.
Use 'nonbiri' (のんびり) instead. 'Nounou' can make you sound shameless or boastful to Japanese speakers.
Thinking this word is always positive.
In daily conversation, 'nounou' is more often used as a criticism of someone who lacks awareness or a sense of urgency.
Examples
Examples
彼は退職後、田舎でのうのうと暮らしている。
かれはたいしょくご、いなかでのうのうとくらしている。
After retiring, he is living a carefree life in the countryside.
LiteralShows a relaxed, stress-free life.
みんなが忙しく働いているのに、彼だけのうのうとしている。
みんながいそがしくはたらいているのに、かれだけのうのうとしている。
Even though everyone is working busily, only he is shamelessly relaxed.
FigurativeCarries a strong critical nuance about someone's indifference.
失敗したくせに、よくのうのうとしていられるな。
しっぱいしたくせに、よくのうのうとしていられるな。
Despite failing, I can't believe how carefree you can be.
FigurativeExpression of annoyance towards someone who feels no remorse.
大きな借金があるのに、あの夫婦はのうのうと生きている。
おおきなしゃっきんがあるのに、あのふうふはのうのうといきている。
Even though they have a large debt, that couple is living without a care.
LiteralEmphasizes the contrast between a serious problem and a careless attitude.
猫が暖かい日向で、のうのうと昼寝をしている。
ねこがあたたかいひなたで、のうのうとひるねをしている。
A cat is taking a nap very comfortably in the warm sunlight.
VisualA positive usage for a pet that looks extremely relaxed.
Similar Words
のんびり
nonbiri
A relaxed and peaceful state of being free from rush or mental pressure. Relaxed without the negative nuance.
ゆったり
yuttari
ゆったり means having ample space, time, or emotional room, resulting in a relaxed, comfortable, and unhurried state. Comfortable and calm.
まったり
mattari
まったり (mattari) means a rich, mellow flavor, or a laid-back and relaxed state of being.
Questions
What is the difference between nounou and nonbiri?
Both mean relaxed, but 'nounou' is often used to criticize someone lacking responsibility or urgency. 'Nonbiri' is neutral or positive general relaxation.
Can I use 'nounou' to compliment someone who stays calm?
It is not recommended. It can sound like you are calling them shameless or complacent.
Does this word only apply to humans?
No, you can use it for pets too, like a cat sleeping very comfortably without a care in the world.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 2079000
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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