Kansai Dialect Mini-Lesson #45
What does “iwasu いわす” mean?
“Iwasu” means to hurt or injure (a part of the body) in Kansai dialect.
It’s especially common when talking about back pain, knee injuries, or joint trouble.
Be careful though—depending on the tone, it can even sound like a threat!
🧭 When Pain Strikes: What “iwasu” Really Means
In the Kansai region, “iwasu” is used when someone injures themselves—like hurting their back while playing sports or twisting an ankle.
You might hear: “Kinō, koshi iwashita wa” (“I hurt my back yesterday”).
But if someone says “Omae, iwasu zo”, it can mean “I’ll hurt you!”—a playful (or not-so-playful) warning.
So while “iwasu” is a vivid and expressive word, make sure to read the room!
🔍 What’s the difference between “itameru” and “iwasu”?
🗾 Standard Japanese
🔸 Example
昨日、腰を痛めた(Kinō, koshi o itameta)
➡ I hurt my lower back yesterday.
✅ Note
“Itameru” is the standard and formal way to describe an injury or strain. You’ll hear it in medical or polite contexts.
🎯 Kansai Dialect
🔸 Example
昨日、腰いわしたわ〜(Kinō, koshi iwashita wa~)
➡ I messed up my back yesterday.
✅ Note
“Iwasu” is often used when talking about joint pain, back problems, or injuries from overdoing something. It adds emotion and immediacy to the statement.
💡 Vivid and packed with Kansai character, “iwasu” is perfect for storytelling—with a humorous or dramatic flair!
💬 Sample Phrases Using "iwasu" in Kansai Dialect
Kinō, koshi iwashita wa~
2️⃣ ヒール履いてたら、足いわしてもうた…
Hīru haita tara, ashi iwashite mōta…
3️⃣ 調子乗ってスクワットしたら膝いわした
Chōshi notte sukuwatto shitara hiza iwashita
1️⃣ I messed up my back yesterday.
2️⃣ Wearing heels totally wrecked my feet…
3️⃣ I overdid it with squats and hurt my knee.
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