Everyone experiences nerves or anxiety at some point. Whether you’re about to deliver a presentation, go on a first date, or navigate a bustling foreign city, it’s natural to feel nervous. In such situations, being able to express your feelings in Japanese could be helpful. This article will guide you on how to say “I’m nervous” in Japanese.
#1. 緊張しています (Kincho shiteimasu)
The most common way to express “I’m nervous” in Japanese is “Kincho shiteimasu.” This phrase works well in both casual and formal situations.
Here are examples of how you can express your nervousness in different contexts:
In a Professional Setting
If you’re in a professional setting, such as before giving a presentation, you might say:
これからのプレゼンテーションに少し緊張しています。 (Korekara no purezente-shon ni sukoshi kincho shiteimasu.)
This translates to, “I’m a little nervous about the upcoming presentation.”
In a Casual Setting
If you’re meeting new people or going on a first date, you could express your nervousness by saying:
初めてのデートで緊張しています。 (Hajimete no de-to de kincho shiteimasu.)
This means, “I’m nervous about the first date.”
In an Educational Setting
Suppose you’re preparing for a test or an examination. In that case, you might express your uneasiness by saying:
試験が心配で緊張しています。 (Shiken ga shinpai de kincho shiteimasu.)
This translates to, “I’m nervous and worried about the exam.”
In Japanese culture, it’s common to express one’s feelings or emotional state. It’s a way of sharing your experiences and connecting with others. While it’s natural to feel nervous at times, remember that it’s equally important to express your feelings accurately.
Understanding the right phrases to express nervousness in Japanese will help you communicate more effectively in various situations. Furthermore, it’s a way to deepen your connection with Japanese speakers by sharing your feelings in their language.
Remember that being able to express your emotions in a different language is a significant step towards fluency. It allows you to connect more deeply with the people and the culture. The next time you feel a bit anxious or nervous, try expressing it in Japanese using the phrases we’ve covered today.
