Kansai Dialect Mini-Lesson #38
What does “jamakusai じゃまくさい” mean?
“Jamakusai” is a Kansai dialect word that means “annoying” or “troublesome.”
It’s used when you don’t feel like doing something because it’s too much effort.
Despite its similarity in spelling, it has nothing to do with “jama” (邪魔), which means “obstruction.”
🧭 When do Kansai people say jamakusai?
“Jamakusai” is often used when something feels like a pain to do—whether it’s going to work, cleaning the house, or simply moving from the couch.
It has a casual, slightly grumpy tone and is often used in everyday complaints.
While “mendōkusai” is standard, “jamakusai” gives it that uniquely Kansai flair.
🔍 What’s the difference between “mendōkusai” and “jamakusai”?
🗾 Standard Japanese
🔸 Example
明日、朝早く起きるのめんどうくさいなあ。(Ashita, asa hayaku okiru no mendōkusai nā)
➡ Getting up early tomorrow is such a hassle…
✅ Note
Used nationwide and fits both formal and informal speech.
🎯 Kansai Dialect
🔸 Example
明日、朝早く起きるのじゃまくさいわ〜(Ashita, asa hayaku okiru no jamakusai wa~)
➡ Getting up early tomorrow is just too much trouble.
✅ Note
Though it contains “jama,” the meaning is completely different from the word “jama.”
💡 Watch out! “Jamakusai” has no connection to “jama” despite how it looks!
💬 Sample Phrases Using "jamakusai" in Kansai Dialect
Asa kara sūtsu kiru no, honma jamakusai wa~
2️⃣ 洗いもん、じゃまくさくて後回しにしてもうた
Araimon, jamakusakute atomawashi ni shite mōta
3️⃣ 今さら行くの、じゃまくさいな〜
Imasara iku no, jamakusai nā~
1️⃣ Wearing a suit early in the morning? Ugh, what a pain!
2️⃣ Doing the dishes felt like too much work, so I postponed it.
3️⃣ Going out now? Nah, that’s way too troublesome.
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