Translation guide
The English word "ambition" can refer to a strong desire to achieve something, a specific goal, or the drive to succeed. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is やる気 (yaruki), which means motivation or willingness to do something. However, depending on the nuance, other words like 野心 (yashin) for ambitious desire (often with a negative connotation) or 大志 (taishi) for lofty aspirations may be used. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on context.
Expressing a general sense of motivation, willingness, or eagerness to take on tasks or challenges.
The most common and natural way to express 'ambition' in the sense of motivation or drive. It refers to one's willingness to do something and is used in everyday conversation.
彼はやる気に満ちている。
He is full of ambition.
やる気が出ない。
I don't feel motivated.
A slightly more formal word for motivation or drive, often used in work or academic contexts.
Enthusiasm or zeal, often implying a passionate ambition. Used in contexts like job interviews or describing someone's attitude.
Expressing ambition that may be seen as selfish, ruthless, or overly competitive.
This is the direct translation of 'ambition' in the sense of a strong desire for power, success, or fame. It often carries a negative connotation of being ruthless or self-serving.
彼は野心家だ。
He is an ambitious person (often with a negative nuance).
彼女は政界への野心を抱いている。
She harbors ambitions for a political career.
Similar to 野心 but often implies a grand, sometimes unrealistic ambition. Can be used in both negative and neutral contexts.
Referring to a particular aim or dream one strives for, often with a positive or admirable connotation.
A lofty ambition or great aspiration, often used in inspirational contexts. It implies a noble goal.
少年よ、大志を抱け。
Boys, be ambitious! (famous quote)
A more general word for 'goal' or 'objective'. While not a direct translation of 'ambition', it is often used when talking about what one wants to achieve.
Literally 'dream', but commonly used to mean 'ambition' or 'aspiration' in a personal, heartfelt way.
Describing a person who is ambitious by nature.
Literally 'to have a spirit of self-improvement'. This is a positive way to describe someone who is ambitious to better themselves.
彼は向上心がある。
He is ambitious (has a desire to improve).
An ambitious person, often with a negative nuance of being power-hungry.
彼は野心家だ。
He is an ambitious person (often negative).
An adjective meaning 'ambitious' or 'motivated', often used in professional settings.
Directly translating 'ambition' as 野心 (yashin) can sound overly negative or aggressive in many contexts. For everyday motivation or goals, use やる気 (yaruki) or 目標 (mokuhyō) instead.
私の野心は医者になることです。
My ambition is to become a doctor. (sounds odd, as if you have a dark ulterior motive)
やる気 (yaruki) is the most casual and common for 'motivation'. 意欲 (iyoku) is more formal and often used in business or education. 熱意 (netsui) emphasizes passion and enthusiasm, and is often used in contexts like job hunting.
He has a strong ambition for his work.
Her ambition (enthusiasm) came across clearly.
He has ambitions of world domination.
私の目標は医者になることです。
My ambition is to become a doctor.
His ambition is to become an astronaut.
彼女はとても意欲的な社員だ。
She is a very ambitious employee.