痒い

• Reading: かゆい
• Romaji: kayui
• Kanji breakdown: 痒 (you/kayu) — itch, itchy
• Pronunciation: /ka.jɯ.i/

Meaning

Itchy; itching. Describes the physical sensation of needing to scratch.

An i-adjective describing the sensation of itchiness. Also used in the set phrase 痒いところに手が届く (reaching the itchy spot), meaning to be perfectly attentive to needs. Conjugates regularly: 痒くない (not itchy), 痒かった (was itchy).

Examples

1. 蚊に刺されて腕が痒い。 I got bitten by a mosquito and my arm is itchy.
2. このセーターはチクチクして首が痒くなる。 This sweater is prickly and makes my neck itch.
3. 花粉の季節は目が痒くてたまらない。 During allergy season, my eyes itch like crazy.

Usage Guide

Context: health, body sensations, allergies

Tone: everyday

Origin & History

From classical adjective 痒し (kayushi). The kanji 痒 combines 疒 (illness/disease radical) and 羊 (sheep), possibly referencing the itchy feeling associated with wool or skin irritation.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal