漫然(まんぜん)

まんぜん
adverb, na-adjective
aimlessly, idly, absent-mindedly
descriptive
1. aimlessly, idly, absent-mindedly, without purpose
Doing something without clear purpose, focus, or effort. Often implies carelessness or a lack of engagement that is viewed negatively.
漫然(まんぜん)と過(す)ごす日々(ひび)が続(つづ)いた。
Days of aimless living continued.
漫然(まんぜん)と運転(うんてん)していると事故(じこ)を起(お)こしやすい。
If you drive absent-mindedly, you're likely to cause an accident.
テレビを漫然(まんぜん)と見(み)ているだけでは、何(なに)も身(み)につかない。
If you just watch TV idly, nothing will stick with you.

Common patterns

Almost always used in the form 漫然(まんぜん)と (adverbial). Can also function as a na-adjective (漫然(まんぜん)とした), though the adverbial use is far more common.

Usage

漫然(まんぜん)と carries a negative nuance, implying that the person should be more focused, purposeful, or engaged. It is often used in contexts of criticism or self-reflection.

The compound 漫然(まんぜん)運転(うんてん) (inattentive driving) is a recognized legal and safety term in Japan, referring to driving without proper attention to the road.

Common collocations

Related Words

Related: 散漫(さんまん) (scattered, unfocused, desultory)
general
Added 2026.2.24 20:44 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
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