Learning Japanese can be an exciting journey, and knowing specific vocabulary related to sports and athletics can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of Japanese culture. Here is a comprehensive guide to essential sports and athletics vocabulary in Japanese.
スポーツ (Supōtsu) – Sports
彼はスポーツが大好きです。
This term is a loanword from English and is used widely to refer to sports in general.
運動 (Undō) – Exercise
毎朝、運動をします。
This word is used to describe physical activities or exercises in general.
試合 (Shiai) – Game or Match
今日はサッカーの試合があります。
This refers to a game or a match in sports contexts, often used for competitive sports.
選手 (Senshu) – Athlete or Player
彼は優れた選手です。
This word describes an individual who participates in sports competitively.
トレーニング (Torēningu) – Training
彼女はトレーニングを毎日続けています。
Another loanword from English, this word is used to describe the act of practicing or working out to improve in a sport.
ジム (Jimu) – Gym
私は週に三回ジムに行きます。
This is a shortened form of the English word “gymnasium,” used in Japan to refer to a place for sports and exercise.
勝つ (Katsu) – To win
彼のチームが試合に勝った。
This verb is used to express winning in a sports competition.
負ける (Makeru) – To lose
彼女は試合に負けて悲しかった。
The counterpart to 勝つ, this verb expresses the act of losing a game or match.
引き分け (Hikiwake) – Draw or Tie
サッカーの試合は引き分けで終わった。
Used when a game or match ends with no winner.
コーチ (Kōchi) – Coach
私のコーチはとても厳しいです。
Another loanword, this refers to someone who trains sports players.
チーム (Chīmu) – Team
彼は野球のチームに所属しています。
This word is used to describe a group of players working together in sports.
フィールド (Fīrudo) – Field
サッカーはそのフィールドで行われます。
Refers to the specific area where outdoor sports are played.
コート (Kōto) – Court
バスケットボールのコートで会いましょう。
This term is used for areas designated for sports like basketball or tennis.
プール (Pūru) – Pool
彼はプールで泳ぎます。
A place specifically designed for swimming.
レース (Rēsu) – Race
明日、マラソンレースがあります。
This word is used for competitions based on speed, such as running or car racing.
トロフィー (Torofī) – Trophy
彼はトロフィーをたくさん持っています。
A prize awarded for a sporting achievement.
メダル (Medaru) – Medal
オリンピックでメダルを獲得しました。
An award, typically a disc of metal, given as a prize in a sports event.
スコア (Sukoa) – Score
その試合のスコアは20対17でした。
This term refers to the numerical points achieved in a game.
審判 (Shimpan) – Referee or Umpire
審判が笛を吹いた。
The individual responsible for enforcing the rules in many sports.
Understanding these terms can help you discuss sports more effectively with Japanese speakers and enhance your appreciation of Japanese sports culture. Whether you’re watching a game, discussing athletes, or participating in sports yourself, this vocabulary will be incredibly useful.
