Translation guide
Describes eating a large amount of food, often with gusto or to excess. Japanese has several common verbs and phrases that convey this, ranging from neutral to emphatic.
To express that someone eats a lot, often in a single sitting or as a habit.
The most neutral and common way to say 'eat a lot'. Suitable for any context.
彼はいつもたくさん食べる。
He always eats a lot.
Literally 'big eating'. Often used for competitive eating or describing someone with a huge appetite.
To emphasize the manner of eating, often with enjoyment or vigor.
Eat heartily or with gusto. Often used for children or when describing a healthy appetite.
子供たちがもりもり食べている。
The kids are eating heavily with enthusiasm.
たくさん食べる is a simple, neutral statement of eating a lot. 大食いする specifically refers to having a large appetite or engaging in eating challenges, and can be used as a noun (大食い).
The English phrase 'eating heavily' does not translate directly to 重く食べる, which is unnatural. Use the expressions above instead.
She is famous for eating heavily.
Eat greedily or wolf down food. Conveys a sense of eagerness and lack of restraint.
お腹が空いて、がつがつ食べてしまった。
I was so hungry I ate heavily.
Eat one's fill; eat to satiety. Often implies eating a large amount until completely full.
焼き肉をたらふく食べた。
I ate heavily of grilled meat.
Overeat or binge eat. Has a negative connotation of gluttony or lack of control.
ストレスで暴食してしまう。
I end up eating heavily due to stress.
Eat quickly and in large mouthfuls. Onomatopoeic, suggesting continuous, eager eating.
彼はぱくぱくとご飯を食べた。
He ate his rice heavily and quickly.