大人しい

• Reading: おとなしい
• Romaji: otonashii
• Kanji breakdown: 大 (dai/oo) — big, large; 人 (jin/hito) — person
• Pronunciation: /o.to.na.ɕiː/

Meaning

Quiet; docile; well-behaved. Describes someone or something that is calm and obedient.

An i-adjective used for both people and animals. When describing people, it implies a gentle, non-confrontational personality. Can carry a slight nuance of being too passive. Often used for children who behave well (大人しい子) or pets that are calm and obedient.

Examples

1. この犬はとても大人しくて飼いやすい。 This dog is very docile and easy to take care of.
2. 彼は大人しい性格だから目立たない。 He has a quiet personality, so he doesn't stand out.
3. 子どもたちが大人しく座っているのは珍しい。 It's rare for the kids to sit still and behave.

Usage Guide

Context: personality, children, pets

Tone: gentle

Origin & History

Derived from 大人 (otona, adult) with the adjective suffix しい, originally meaning 'adult-like' or 'mature in manner.' Over time, the meaning shifted to emphasise the quiet, composed behaviour associated with maturity.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal