YUKKU-RI ゆっくり
Meanings
1. Describes an action or movement taking time: slowly, without hurrying.
2. Describes having plenty of time, space, or mental room.
3. Describes resting or spending time comfortably and at ease.
Examples
Don’t walk so slowly—hurry up.
そんなにゆっくり歩いていないで、早く歩け。
When I was a child, I felt as though time itself passed more slowly.
こどもの時は、もっと時間がゆっくり流れていた気がするのだがなあ。
I spend my days off relaxing on a private beach.
休日はプライベートビーチで、ゆっくり過ごす。
Welcome. Please make yourself comfortable and take your time.
いらっしゃいませ。ごゆっくりどうぞ。
Dogmatic Opinion
YUKKU-RI resembles YUTTA-RI and can include mental spaciousness, but its strongest focus is on slowness of movement or the absence of hurry.
At hotels, other people’s homes, and restaurants, you are often told GO-YUKKU-RI—“Please relax and take your time.”
This is, of course, a social courtesy.
Do not take it as legal authorization to remain there indefinitely.
Still, the extension is important: YUKKU-RI is not merely low speed. It also means allowing enough time and relaxing without pressure.
Proximate Expression
slow
relax
take it easy
unwind
steadily
at a snail’s pace
leisurely
Related Words
For Japanese Learners
Slowly is only one translation. “ゆっくり歩く” is walk slowly; “ゆっくり考えて” is take your time and think about it; “ゆっくりしていって” is stay and relax or make yourself comfortable. Choose English according to whether the Japanese emphasizes speed, available time, or relaxation.
