Translation guide
The Olympic Games are referred to by their full formal name or common abbreviations in Japanese. The choice depends on context and formality.
Referring to the Olympic Games in a formal or official context.
The full official name, used in formal documents and announcements.
オリンピック競技大会は4年に一度開催されます。
The Olympic Games are held once every four years.
The most common way to refer to the Olympics in everyday conversation and media.
次のオリンピックはどこで開かれるの？
Where will the next Olympics be held?
Literally 'five rings', a common abbreviation used in newspapers and headlines.
五輪開催地が決定した。
The Olympic host city has been decided.
Referring to a particular edition of the Olympic Games by year or host city.
Pattern for naming a specific Olympics: year + 年 + city + オリンピック.
2020年東京オリンピックは延期されました。
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics were postponed.
Abbreviated form often used in news headlines.
東京五輪の開会式が行われた。
The opening ceremony of the Tokyo Olympics was held.
Referring specifically to the Winter Olympic Games.
Standard term for the Winter Olympics.
冬季オリンピックではスキー競技が人気です。
Skiing events are popular at the Winter Olympics.
Abbreviated form used in headlines.
オリンピック is the most common and neutral term. 五輪 is a Japanese abbreviation literally meaning 'five rings' and is frequently used in newspapers and headlines. It is slightly more formal or literary in feel, but perfectly acceptable in conversation.
オリンピックを見に行く。
I'm going to watch the Olympics.
五輪代表に選ばれた。
Selected for the Olympic team.
冬季五輪の開催地が発表された。
The host city for the Winter Olympics has been announced.