Kansai Dialect Mini-Lesson #26

What does “Shindoi しんどい” mean?

🌐 Language:繁体字 | 日本語

“Shindoi” is a Kansai dialect word that means “tired” or “exhausted.” It’s originally from the Kansai region, but has now spread throughout Japan!

kansai dialect-26 shindoi

🧭 When do people use “shindoi”?

“Shindoi” is a Kansai expression used when someone feels physically tired or emotionally drained. Although it originated in the Kansai area, it’s become widely used across Japan thanks to TV shows and social media.
It’s often shortened in casual speech to just “shindo…” (dropping the final “-i”) and used with a sigh-like tone.
If you’re feeling a bit worn out, “shindoi” is a perfect word to express it naturally—especially if you’re in Kansai!

Kansai Dialect Conversation-shindoi

🔍 How do you say “I’m tired” in standard vs Kansai Japanese?

🗾 Standard Japanese

🔸 Example
あ〜、疲れた…(A~, tsukareta)
➡ Ahh… I’m tired.

✅️ Explanation
“Tsukareta” is the standard way to say you’re tired in Japanese. It’s used everywhere and by everyone.

🎯 Kansai Dialect

🔸 Example
あ〜、しんど…(A~, shindo)
➡ Ugh… I’m exhausted.

✅️ Explanation
“Shindoi” is the Kansai version of “tired.” In casual situations, people often drop the final “-i” and simply say “shindo…” for a softer, more natural feel.

💡 Same word, totally different meaning! In Kansai, “jibun” often means “you”!

💬 Sample Phrases Using "shindoi" in Kansai Dialect

Kansai Dialect
1️⃣ 今日、めっちゃ歩いたからしんどいわ〜
 Kyō, meccha aruitakara shindoi wa~
2️⃣ この仕事、ほんましんど…
 Kono shigoto, honma shindo…
3️⃣ 朝からバタバタで、もうしんどいわ…
 Asa kara batabata de, mō shindoiwa…
English Translation

1️⃣ I walked so much today—I’m totally wiped out.

2️⃣ This job is seriously exhausting…

3️⃣ It’s been hectic since morning—I’m just drained…

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