Entry
てきぱき
tekipaki
Doing tasks or taking action quickly, efficiently, and without hesitation.
Meaning
Quick Meaning
This word describes handling work, chores, or situations with crisp efficiency. It carries a strong positive connotation of competence, showing that the person knows exactly what to do and doesn't waste time.
- Working or cleaning efficiently
- Moving or giving instructions briskly
Sense Map
Efficient Work
Finishing tasks, jobs, or chores in a highly organized, quick, and competent manner.
仕事をてきぱき片付ける
Brisk Action
Moving, responding, or giving directions promptly without sluggishness or hesitation.
てきぱきと指示を出す
Usage Note
How to Use
てきぱきと + verb
てきぱき + verb
てきぱきする
A suru-verb meaning 'to act briskly' or 'to be efficient'.
てきぱきした + noun
Modifies a noun, often used to describe a person (人) or an attitude (態度).
How to Use
Common Phrases
てきぱきこなす
to handle efficiently
てきぱき片付ける
to tidy up quickly
てきぱき動く
to move briskly
てきぱきした態度
a crisp/brisk attitude
Nuance
Context Nuance
| Common Contexts | Nuance | Usage Note |
|---|---|---|
| At work | Highly positive | Indicates that an employee is competent, reliable, and manages their time perfectly. |
| Household chores | Positive | Describes getting through cooking or cleaning in a smooth, uninterrupted flow. |
Similar Words
Comparison Table
| Similar Words | When to Use | Not the Same as | Mini Example |
|---|---|---|---|
はきはき はきはき / nearby | Used when someone speaks clearly, loudly, and with confidence. | てきぱき focuses on efficient actions and physical/cognitive workflow, while はきはき is about one's manner of speaking. | はきはき（と）答える |
さっさと さっさと / contrast | Used to urge someone to do something without delay, often implying impatience. | てきぱき is an objective compliment about skill, whereas さっさと is an impatient demand not to waste time. | さっさと帰る |
Usage Note
Common Mistakes
Using this word to describe a fast-moving bullet train.
てきぱき only applies to organized, efficient human actions, not the physical speed of inanimate objects.
Yelling at a slow person to 'hurry up' using tekipaki.
Use さっさと if you want to aggressively urge someone. てきぱき is descriptive and usually complimentary.
Examples
Examples
彼女はいつもてきぱきと仕事をこなす。
かのじょは いつも てきぱきと しごとを こなす。
She always handles her work efficiently.
LiteralThe most common example to show work efficiency.
部屋の掃除をてきぱき片付けた。
へやの そうじを てきぱき かたづけた。
I quickly and efficiently finished cleaning the room.
LiteralUsed for household chores completed without delay.
店員がてきぱきと客を案内している。
てんいんが てきぱきと きゃくを あんないしている。
The store clerk is briskly guiding the customers.
VisualDescribes efficient physical movement in customer service.
彼はトラブルにもてきぱき対応した。
かれは トラブルにも てきぱき たいおうした。
He dealt with the trouble promptly and capably.
FigurativeFocuses on mental efficiency and decision-making.
てきぱきした態度が好印象を与えた。
てきぱきした たいどが こういんしょうを あたえた。
The brisk attitude gave a good impression.
FigurativeUsed as an adjective to describe someone's overall demeanor.
Similar Words
はきはき
hakihaki
Speaking or acting in a clear, brisk, and energetic manner that shows confidence. Focuses more on speaking clearly and brightly.
さっさと
sassato
Doing something quickly and without hesitation or delay. Emphasizes not wasting time, often used to impatiently urge someone.
キビキビ
kibikibi
Performing actions or speaking in a brisk, energetic, and efficient manner.
Questions
Can I use tekipaki for sports?
Not usually. It is meant for completing tasks (like paperwork or chores) efficiently. For energetic sports movements, a word like 'kibikibi' is better.
Is tekipaki always a compliment?
Yes, almost always. It implies competence and a great workflow.
What is the difference between tekipaki and hayaku?
'Hayaku' simply means 'quickly'. 'Tekipaki' means 'quickly and efficiently', emphasizing that the person is skilled and doesn't hesitate.
Source Details
- Entry ID
- 2009050
- Source
- JMdict_english
- Revision
- -
- Review notes
- No special notes
- Active language
- English
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