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ずぼら
zubora
What does "ずぼら" mean in English?
lazy彼はずぼらだから、掃除をしない。
He’s so lazy he never cleans.
How to use "ずぼら" correctly: definitions and examples in English?
informal
Extremely lazy or careless about responsibilities, often to the point of neglecting basic duties through lack of effort or discipline.
仕事をずぼらに片付ける
to half-heartedly finish work
ずぼらな生活スタイル
a careless lifestyle
Implies a chronic lack of motivation or concern for consequences, not just occasional laziness. Often used to describe someone who avoids effort despite having the ability to do better.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoiding Misuse
ずぼら describes a chronic state of laziness or carelessness, not a temporary mood. Do not use it for someone who is tired or having an off day. It’s also important to note that this term is informal and should be avoided in formal settings.
Gold Rule
Social Context
Use ずぼら only in informal contexts with people you know well. It can sound judgmental or rude in professional or unfamiliar settings.
Word Origin
Derived from the noun ずぼら (zubora), which is a colloquial abbreviation of ずぼらぼら (zuborabora), an onomatopoeic expression mimicking the sound of laziness or sloppiness. The term gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly in urban slang, and reflects a cultural emphasis on diligence and social responsibility.
Usage Notes
Commonly used in casual conversation among friends or family. Rarely used in formal or professional contexts. May carry a slightly negative connotation, implying not just laziness but a disregard for social expectations. In some cases, it can be used humorously or affectionately among close peers.
Word Breakdown
ずぼら
onomatopoeic root for laziness/sloppiness
root和英辞典