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How to Say ‘Chicken out’ in Japanese

チキる

ちきる

💬 Usage Tip: Comes from 'chicken', meaning to lose courage.

🇯🇵 In Japan: Used often in competitive settings or daring situations.

Word-by-Word Breakdown

チキるちきる

[chikiru]

to chicken out

This slang refers to acting out of fear or nervousness, often opting not to do something.

Example

怖くて発表をチキった。

I chickened out of giving the presentation.

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