うっかり

• Reading: うっかり
• Romaji: ukkari
• Pronunciation: /ɯʔ.ka.ɾi/

Meaning

Carelessly; inadvertently. Doing something without proper attention or by mistake.

An adverb that can also function as a suru verb (うっかりする). Describes absent-minded mistakes rather than deliberate actions. Always implies the action was unintentional. Often used with してしまう to express regret. Distinct from わざと (on purpose) — うっかり emphasizes the accidental nature.

Examples

1. うっかり財布を家に忘れてきた。 I absent-mindedly left my wallet at home.
2. 彼はうっかりして約束の時間に遅れた。 He spaced out and was late for his appointment.
3. うっかり秘密を言ってしまった。 I accidentally let the secret slip.

Usage Guide

Context: daily life, mistakes, apologies

Tone: apologetic

Origin & History

A Japanese mimetic word (擬態語) expressing a momentary lapse of attention. The っ (geminate consonant) conveys the sudden, unexpected nature of the careless moment.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal