Translation guide
Expresses the idea of every living being, from humans to animals and plants. Japanese often uses set phrases or compounds rather than a single word.
Referring to every living organism, including humans, animals, and plants, in a broad or philosophical sense.
The most direct and common way to say 'all living creatures'. Neutral and widely understood.
すべての生き物は水を必要とする。
All living creatures need water.
Emphasizes 'every possible' living thing, slightly more literary.
あらゆる生き物が生態系の一部だ。
Every living creature is part of the ecosystem.
Means 'living things' or 'organisms'. Often used in scientific or educational contexts. Can be combined with すべての or あらゆる.
地球上のすべての生物は進化してきた。
All living creatures on Earth have evolved.
A poetic, literary phrase meaning 'all living things'. Often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
生きとし生けるものすべてに慈悲を。
Compassion for all living creatures.
Focusing on animals, often in contexts of animal rights or nature.
The standard way to say 'all animals'. Clear and unambiguous.
すべての動物には生存権がある。
All animals have the right to live.
Emphasizes 'every kind of animal', slightly more emphatic.
あらゆる動物がこの森に住んでいる。
All kinds of animals live in this forest.
Used in religious, ethical, or spiritual discussions about sentient life.
A Buddhist term meaning 'all sentient beings'. Very formal and religious.
一切衆生の救済を願う。
I pray for the salvation of all living beings.
生き物 (いきもの) is the everyday word for 'living thing', often with a warmer, more familiar nuance. 生物 (せいぶつ) is more scientific and objective, like 'organism'. Use 生き物 in general conversation and 生物 in academic contexts.
子供は生き物が好きだ。
Children like living things.
生物の授業でカエルを解剖した。
We dissected a frog in biology class.
The English word 'creatures' can sometimes be translated as クリーチャー (creature) in fantasy or gaming contexts, but for general use, 生き物 or 生物 is much more natural. Using クリーチャー for real animals sounds unnatural.
Also used in spiritual contexts to include all life, not just animals.
生きとし生けるものは皆、仏性を持つ。
All living creatures possess Buddha-nature.