Meaning and Nuance
The adjective 卑しい (いやしい) describes negative qualities such as greediness, vulgarity, or shabby behavior. It often implies a lack of dignity or refinement. When used about a person, it can mean they are greedy or morally low.
Common Contexts
- Talking about greed, especially regarding money or possessions.
- Criticizing someone's language or manners as vulgar or coarse.
- Describing attitudes or behaviors that are considered lowly or shameful.
Collocations and Patterns
- お金に卑しい: greedy about money
- 卑しい言葉遣い: vulgar language
- 卑しい態度: shabby or mean attitude
Usage Notes
This word is somewhat formal and often appears in written or serious spoken Japanese. It carries a strong negative judgment, so use it carefully to avoid offending someone unintentionally. It is not used for physical poverty but rather moral or behavioral baseness.
Common Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 卑しい with words meaning "poor" or "humble". Remember, 卑しい is negative and implies greed or vulgarity, not modesty or simplicity.