Emotions and feelings are a fundamental part of human expression, and learning how to articulate these in a new language can greatly enhance your ability to communicate effectively. In Japanese, there are numerous words to describe a wide array of emotions, from happiness to sorrow, love to despair. Let’s explore some of these words and how they are used in everyday conversation.
喜び (Yorokobi)
Yorokobi translates to joy or happiness. It is used to express a feeling of great pleasure or delight caused by something exceptionally good or satisfying.
彼の成功を知って、私は大きな喜びを感じました。
悲しみ (Kanashimi)
Kanashimi means sadness or sorrow. This term is used to describe a state of feeling sad or the quality of being sorrowful.
彼女の話を聞いて、深い悲しみが込み上げてきた。
怒り (Ikari)
Ikari is the Japanese word for anger. It refers to a strong feeling of annoyance, displeasure, or hostility.
彼の無礼なコメントに、私は怒りを覚えた。
恐怖 (Kyōfu)
Kyōfu translates to fear. It is used to express a feeling of being afraid or apprehensive about something.
その暗い森を見て、恐怖を感じました。
驚き (Odoroki)
Odoroki means surprise or astonishment. This word is used when something unexpected happens or when someone is amazed by an event.
彼女の突然の訪問に、私は驚きました。
愛 (Ai)
Ai is the Japanese term for love. This emotion can be romantic, familial, or platonic, referring to deep affection and attachment.
彼への愛を隠すことができませんでした。
興奮 (Kōfun)
Kōfun translates to excitement. It is the feeling of being very enthusiastic and eager about something.
コンサートのチケットを手に入れた時、彼は興奮しました。
安心 (Anshin)
Anshin means relief or reassurance. It is the feeling of relaxation following relief from anxiety or distress.
試験が終わった後、深い安心感を味わいました。
後悔 (Kōkai)
Kōkai is the feeling of regret. This term is used when someone feels sorry about a previous action or missed opportunity.
彼はその言葉を発した後、すぐに後悔しました。
嫉妬 (Shitto)
Shitto means jealousy. It’s the feeling of resentment against someone because of their success or advantages.
彼の成功に対して、私は嫉妬を感じた。
羨望 (Senbō)
Senbō translates to envy. Similar to jealousy, it is a feeling of discontented or resentful longing aroused by someone else’s possessions, qualities, or luck.
彼女の才能に対する羨望を隠すことができなかった。
感謝 (Kansha)
Kansha means gratitude. This is the feeling of being thankful for something or someone.
彼にはいつも感謝しています。
失望 (Shitsubō)
Shitsubō translates to disappointment. This term is used when someone feels dissatisfaction because expectations or hopes were not met.
結果について彼は深い失望を感じた。
緊張 (Kinchō)
Kinchō means tension or nervousness. This emotion is felt during anxiety-inducing situations that cause unease or stress.
試験前には、いつも緊張します。
落ち着き (Ochitsuki)
Ochitsuki refers to calmness or composure. It denotes a state of being relaxed and free from agitation or excitement.
彼女はどんな状況でも落ち着きを保っています。
Understanding these words not only helps you articulate your feelings in Japanese but also gives you insight into the cultural nuances of emotional expression in Japan. Each of these words carries its own weight and usage, reflecting the depth and complexity of human emotions. As you continue to learn and practice these terms, you’ll find yourself better equipped to share your feelings and connect with others on a deeper level in your language journey.
