身勝手

• Reading: みがって
• Romaji: migatte
• Kanji breakdown: 身 (shin/mi) — body, oneself; 勝手 (katte) — selfishness, convenience
• Pronunciation: /mi.ɡat.te/

Meaning

Selfishness; self-centredness; acting only in one's own interest without regard for others.

A noun and na-adjective expressing that someone acts purely for their own convenience, disregarding others' feelings or needs. Slightly stronger in tone than わがまま (wagamama), suggesting a more calculated self-interest. Often appears as 身勝手な人 ('a self-centred person') or 身勝手な行動 ('selfish behaviour') in criticism.

Examples

1. 彼の身勝手な行動がチーム全体に迷惑をかけた。 His selfish behavior caused trouble for the entire team.
2. そんな身勝手な言い訳は周囲には通らない。 Such self-centered excuses won't fly with those around you.
3. 自分の都合だけを優先する身勝手さに周りは呆れた。 Everyone was exasperated by his selfishness in prioritizing only his own convenience.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday conversation, criticism, interpersonal conflict

Tone: critical

Origin & History

From 身 (mi, 'body, oneself') and 勝手 (katte, 'selfishness, convenience, one's own way'). The compound literally suggests acting in a way that is convenient only for one's own body or self.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal