1.
naive; unworldly; inexperienced in the ways of the world
A person who lacks knowledge of social norms, common sense, or how society works, often due to a sheltered upbringing.
あの人は世間知らずだ。
That person is naive about the ways of the world.
世間知らずと言われても仕方がない。
It can't be helped if people call you naive.
若いころは世間知らずで、いろいろ失敗した。
When I was young, I was naive about the world and made many mistakes.
Combines 世間 (the world, society) with 知らず (not knowing). Functions both as a noun describing such a person and as a na-adjective-like descriptor. Carries a mildly critical tone, implying someone is out of touch with reality or social expectations.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 世間知らずな人: a naive person
- 世間知らずだと思われる: to be seen as unworldly
- 世間知らずのお嬢さん: a sheltered young lady
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 箱入り娘: sheltered daughter — specifically refers to a young woman raised in a protective environment, while 世間知らず applies to anyone regardless of gender
- 青二才: greenhorn — implies youthful inexperience with a more dismissive tone, while 世間知らず focuses on lack of social awareness