How to Say ‘It isn't working properly’ in Japanese
調子が悪い
choushi ga warui
[CHOH-shee ga warui]
💬 Usage Tip: 調子 (chōshi) means the condition something is in, so 調子が悪い works for machines and for people. 体の調子が悪い means "I'm not feeling well".
Phrase Breakdown
調子
choushi
[CHOH-shee]
condition; state
How well something or someone is working or feeling.
今日は体の調子がいい。
I feel in good shape today.
が
ga
[ga]
subject marker
A particle marking the subject of the sentence.
興味がある分野を教えてください。
Please tell me the field you are interested in.
悪い
warui
[warui]
Bad
Having a negative quality or attribute.
悪い天気で外に出られません。
I can't go outside because of the bad weather.
Get the Full Learning Experience
This lesson is just a preview. Download PrettyFluent to practice pronunciation, roleplay conversations, and master vocabulary with spaced repetition.
Pronunciation Feedback
AI-powered feedback on what you say out loud
Spaced Repetition
Retain vocabulary long-term with smart practice
Immersive Roleplaying
Practice real conversations with AI partners
Lessons for Your Situation
Request lessons tailored to your specific needs
What Learners Are Saying
“Teaching in Osaka and I wanted to connect with my students beyond the classroom. The everyday conversation made my Japanese feel natural, not textbook-y.”
Mia S., 25, English Teacher
“I hop cities every few months and this is the only app that actually prepares me for living somewhere, not just visiting. Tokyo was the real test — passed with flying colors.”
James O., 28, Remote Worker
“I tried five different apps before this one. The roleplay conversations are what finally made things click. I actually remember what I learn now.”
Sofia R., 31, Marketing Manager