Translation guide
The English word 'appetite' can refer to a physical desire for food, or more broadly to any strong desire or enthusiasm. In Japanese, different words and expressions are used depending on the context.
Expressing a physical desire to eat, or the state of being hungry.
The most common and direct translation for 'appetite' as a desire for food. Used in both formal and casual contexts.
Expressing a strong desire for something other than food, such as knowledge, adventure, or success.
食欲 is a noun meaning 'appetite', while お腹が空く is a verb phrase meaning 'to become hungry'. Use 食欲 when talking about the state of appetite (e.g., 'I have no appetite'), and お腹が空く when simply stating you are hungry.
Avoid using 食欲 for non-food desires. 食欲 only refers to the desire to eat. For other types of appetite, use words like 欲求, 意欲, or the suffix 〜欲.
最近、食欲がない。
I have no appetite lately.
運動すると食欲がわく。
Exercise gives me an appetite.
Literally 'stomach becomes empty', this is the most natural way to say 'I'm hungry' or 'I have an appetite'. It's a verb phrase, not a noun.
お腹が空いた。
I'm hungry. / I have an appetite.
An expression meaning 'appetite is stimulated' or 'eating goes well', often used when food is delicious or appetite is good.
この料理は食が進む。
This dish really stimulates the appetite.
A more formal or written word for 'hunger' or 'empty stomach'. Not as commonly used in daily conversation as 食欲.
空腹を感じる。
I feel hunger. / I have an appetite.
A general word for 'desire' or 'craving', often used in psychological or formal contexts. Can be used for both physical and abstract desires.
知識欲求が強い。
He has a strong appetite for knowledge.
Means 'motivation', 'will', or 'eagerness'. Often used for appetite for work, learning, or life.
彼は仕事に対する意欲がある。
He has an appetite for work.
A stronger word for 'desire', 'lust', or 'appetite' in the sense of worldly cravings. Can have a negative connotation.
権力への欲望
an appetite for power
A suffix meaning 'desire for ~'. Common compounds: 知識欲 (appetite for knowledge), 所有欲 (appetite for possession), 冒険欲 (appetite for adventure).
彼は冒険欲が旺盛だ。
He has a strong appetite for adventure.