Translation guide
Expressions for physical, sexual desire in Japanese, ranging from formal to slang.
Express physical, sexual desire in a neutral or slightly formal way.
The standard, neutral term for sexual desire or libido. Used in both medical and everyday contexts.
Express intense, often uncontrollable sexual desire.
Talk about sex drive in a more casual, everyday manner.
Literally 'desire for sex', a common way to express sexual desire without using a single technical term.
性への欲求が高まっている。
My sexual desire is increasing.
性欲 is the most general and neutral term for sexual desire. 情欲 implies stronger passion or lust, often with emotional involvement. 肉欲 is more literary and emphasizes the physical, carnal aspect, sometimes with a negative connotation.
The English word 'carnal' often has a religious or moralistic tone. In Japanese, 肉欲 carries a similar nuance, but 性欲 is more common and neutral. Using 肉欲 in everyday conversation may sound overly dramatic or old-fashioned.
性欲が強い。
I have a strong sex drive.
性欲を抑えるのは難しい。
It's hard to control sexual desire.
Literally 'flesh desire', a more literary or formal term for carnal desire. Often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
肉欲に溺れる。
To be consumed by carnal desire.
A Buddhist term for sexual desire, one of the 'three poisons'. Rare in everyday speech.
色欲を断つ。
To renounce sexual desire.
Strong sexual passion or lust. More intense than 性欲, often with emotional connotations.
情欲に駆られる。
To be driven by lust.
彼は情欲のままに行動した。
He acted on his lust.
Sexual arousal or lust. Can be used as a noun or verb (欲情する).
欲情を抑えられない。
I can't control my lust.
Lewd or indecent desire. Has a negative, often moralistic tone.
淫欲にふける。
To indulge in lewd desires.
Sexual desire, often used in psychological or formal contexts.
性的欲求は人間の本能だ。
Sexual desire is a human instinct.
Slang for feeling horny or aroused. Onomatopoeic, very casual.
最近ムラムラして仕方ない。
I've been so horny lately, I can't help it.