戯言(ざれごと)

Refers to speech that lacks substance or seriousness. The tone can range from lighthearted jest to dismissive contempt depending on context. When used about one's own words, it can function as self-deprecating modesty; when directed at others, it can be quite sharp.

Pronunciation

This word has multiple readings that carry different nuances:

• ざれごと: the most common reading in modern usage, slightly literary
• たわごと: also very common, tends to emphasize foolishness or absurdity
• ぎげん: a rare Sino-Japanese reading, mostly seen in older texts

Common collocations

• 戯言(ざれごと)を言(い)う: to talk nonsense
• 戯言(ざれごと)を並(なら)べる: to reel off nonsense
• 戯言(ざれごと)にすぎない: to be nothing but idle talk

Similar words

• たわごと: nonsense — same kanji (戯言(たわごと)), emphasizes silliness and absurdity more strongly
• 冗談(じょうだん): joke — lighter and more playful, less dismissive
• 馬鹿(ばか)げた話(はなし): ridiculous talk — blunter and more direct