弱音(よわね)

よわね
noun
complaints; whining; negative talk
communicationemotion
1. complaints; whining; faint-hearted words
Words expressing weakness, discouragement, or a desire to give up. Almost always used in the set phrase 弱音(よわね)を吐(は)く (to complain, to whine).
弱音(よわね)を吐(は)くな。
Don't whine.
彼(かれ)は一度(いちど)も弱音(よわね)を吐(は)かなかった。
He never once complained.
つらい時(とき)は弱音(よわね)を吐(は)いてもいいんだよと、友達(ともだち)に言(い)われた。
A friend told me it's okay to let out your feelings when things are tough.

Usage

Almost exclusively appears in the phrase 弱音(よわね)を吐(は)く (to whine, to show weakness). Traditionally viewed negatively, as showing weakness is often discouraged in Japanese culture. However, in modern usage, people also say 弱音(よわね)を吐(は)いてもいい (it's okay to express your struggles).

Common collocations

Similar words

  • 愚痴(ぐち): complaints about everyday frustrations — less about weakness, more about venting
  • 泣(な)き言(ごと): tearful complaints — similar to 弱音(よわね) but emphasizes emotional distress

Related Words

Synonym: 愚痴(ぐち) (complaints (venting))
Compare: 泣(な)き言(ごと) (tearful complaints)
general
Added 2026.3.18 10:59 · Revised 2026.9.2 13:01
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