1.
mischievous, naughty, rambunctious
Describes playfully disobedient or energetically troublesome behavior, especially in children. Can also refer to someone with a wild or rebellious past.
若い頃はやんちゃだった。
I was wild when I was young.
やんちゃ describes energetic, mischievous behavior that's often viewed with some affection despite being troublesome. While typically used for children, it can describe pets or adults recounting their wild youth.
When applied to adults, やんちゃ時代 (wild days) often implies a rebellious phase that the person has since outgrown.
Related expression
- やんちゃする: to act up, be naughty
Related Words
Compare:
悪戯好き (mischievous)