ぼちぼち

• Reading: ぼちぼち
• Romaji: bochibochi
• Pronunciation: /bo.t͡ɕi.bo.t͡ɕi/

Meaning

Leisurely; gradually; little by little. Also used as 'so-so' or 'getting by' in response to how things are going.

An adverb with several related meanings: (1) gradually, slowly: ぼちぼち始めよう (let us get started soon); (2) so-so, getting by (as a response to 'how are you?'): ぼちぼちです (so-so/getting by). Originally a Kansai dialect word that has spread to wider use. Has a warm, colloquial feel. Similar to そろそろ in some uses but more casual and relaxed. Also written ぼつぼつ.

Examples

1. そろそろぼちぼち出かけようか。 How about we start heading out soon?
2. 商売の方はどうですか。ぼちぼちですね。 How's business?' 'Oh, so-so.
3. 桜がぼちぼち咲き始めた。 The cherry blossoms are gradually starting to bloom.

Usage Guide

Context: daily conversation, Kansai dialect, greetings

Tone: relaxed

Origin & History

Of onomatopoeic origin, imitating the idea of things happening one at a time, in small increments. Originally prominent in Kansai dialect, where it remains especially common as a casual response meaning 'so-so' or 'getting by.'

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal