無邪気

• Reading: むじゃき
• Romaji: mujaki
• Kanji breakdown: 無 (mu) — without, lacking; 邪 (ja) — evil, wicked; 気 (ki) — spirit, feeling
• Pronunciation: /mɯ.dʑa.ki/

Meaning

Innocent; pure; naive; guileless. Describes a childlike lack of guile or malice.

A na-adjective describing a pure, unspoilt quality often associated with children but also used for adults who display childlike sincerity. 無邪気な笑顔 (innocent smile), 無邪気に遊ぶ (play innocently). Generally positive, suggesting a refreshing lack of calculation. Can occasionally carry a slightly negative nuance of being too naive.

Examples

1. 子供たちの無邪気な笑顔に癒された。 The children's innocent smiles were so soothing.
2. 彼は大人になっても無邪気なところがある。 Even as an adult, he has an innocent side to him.
3. 無邪気に質問する姿が周りを和ませた。 The way he asked questions so innocently put everyone at ease.

Usage Guide

Context: children, personality, daily life

Tone: affectionate

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese 無 (mu, without) + 邪気 (jaki, evil spirit/malice). Literally 'without malice' — a pure state free from ill intent.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal