ごろつき

ごろつき refers to a rough, disreputable person — a thug, hooligan, or street tough. It carries a strongly negative connotation.

Etymology

Originally from ごろごろ (rolling around idly), referring to people who loaf about without proper work or employment.

Common collocations

• ごろつきに絡(から)まれる: to be hassled by thugs
• 町(まち)のごろつき: town ruffians
• ごろつきのような男(おとこ): a thug-like man
• ごろつきがたむろする: thugs loitering around

Similar words

• チンピラ: petty thug, punk (often younger)
• やくざ: gangster, organized crime member (more serious)
• 不良(ふりょう): delinquent (especially youth)

Register

Somewhat old-fashioned in feel. チンピラ is more common in modern casual speech for similar meaning.