1.
free-spirited, doing as one pleases, easygoing
Acting according to one's own wishes and whims without worrying about others' expectations or schedules. Can be positive (carefree) or negative (selfish), depending on context.
Na-adjective: 気ままな + noun (modifier), 気ままに + verb (adverbial).
Common collocations
- 気ままな暮らし: a carefree lifestyle
- 気ままに過ごす: to spend time as one pleases
- 気ままな旅: an unplanned/freewheeling trip
- 気ままな性格: a free-spirited personality
Nuance: When describing oneself or a positive situation (travel, living alone), 気まま has a positive nuance of freedom and ease. When describing someone else's behavior, it can imply selfishness or inconsiderateness — doing whatever one wants without regard for others.