Understanding “適当”: Good vs. Bad Meanings and Usage in Japanese

Meaning and Usage of “適当”

The term “適当” has both good and bad meanings. It’s important to differentiate between them based on context. By understanding the nuances of this term, you will enhance your comprehension of Japanese and improve your ability to communicate effectively in various situations. Let’s explore how context shapes the meaning of “適当” in everyday conversations.

Good Meaning

Meaning: Appropriate, Moderate

適当な

• 適当な回答を選ぶ。
  (Choose the appropriate answer.)
• 適当な説明が思いつかない。
  (I can’t think of an appropriate explanation.)
• 適当なサイズに切ってください。
  (Please cut it to the appropriate size.)

Bad Meaning

Meaning: Irresponsible, Half-hearted, Excessively Casual

適当に

• 答えがわからなかったから、適当に答えた。
  (I didn’t know the answer, so I just winged it.)
• 疲れていたから、今日は適当に作った晩御飯です。
  (I was tired, so I made a casual dinner today.)
• 適当にすると、よくないよ。
  (If you do it carelessly, it won’t turn out well.)
• 適当に勉強したので、テストに合格できなかった。
  (I studied half-heartedly, so I couldn’t pass the test.)
• 適当に買うより、産地や品質をしっかり確認したほうがいい。
  (It’s better to check the origin and quality carefully than to buy it casually.)

適当なこと

• 適当なことを言わないでください。
  (Please don’t say vague things.)

適当です

• どうやってやったの？適当だよ。
  (How did you do it? I just winged it.)