生意気

• Reading: なまいき
• Romaji: namaiki
• Kanji breakdown: 生 (nama) — raw, unripe; 意気 (iki) — spirit, attitude
• Pronunciation: /na.ma.i.ki/

Meaning

Cheeky; impudent; cocky; presumptuous. Describes a person, especially a younger or lower-ranked one, who behaves arrogantly beyond their station.

A na-adjective (and noun) describing someone whose boldness or arrogance is inappropriate to their age, rank, or experience. 生意気な口をきく (to speak cheekily) is a common pattern. While usually critical, the word can carry affectionate exasperation about a precocious child or a bold underling whose confidence is secretly admired.

Examples

1. 生意気なことを言うようだが、その計画には明らかな欠陥がある。 I know it's cheeky of me to say this, but that plan has an obvious flaw.
2. あの新入社員は生意気で、先輩への敬語も使えないらしい。 That new hire is so impudent that he apparently can't even use polite language with his seniors.
3. 幼いころから生意気だった彼女は、今では堂々たる経営者になった。 She was cocky even as a child, but now she's become a confident and commanding business executive.

Usage Guide

Context: everyday speech, school/workplace, interpersonal relations

Tone: critical

Origin & History

Composed of 生 (nama, raw/unripe) and 意気 (iki, spirit/attitude). The image is of a 'raw, unripe spirit' — someone whose boldness outstrips their actual maturity or standing.

Cultural Context

Era: Edo–Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal