Translation guide
The English word 'emotion' covers a broad range of feelings. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean a specific feeling, the general concept of emotions, or emotional expression.
Referring to a particular emotion someone is experiencing.
The most common and general word for 'emotion' or 'feeling'. It can refer to any specific emotion.
彼は感情を抑えられなかった。
He couldn't control his emotions.
複雑な感情が湧き上がった。
Complex emotions welled up.
Often translated as 'feeling', it is more subjective and personal than 感情. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
今の気持ちを言葉にできない。
I can't put my current feelings into words.
Talking about emotions in an abstract or philosophical sense.
Also used for the abstract concept. Often contrasted with 理性 (reason).
感情と理性のバランスが大切だ。
A balance between emotion and reason is important.
A technical term used in psychology and neuroscience for 'emotion' as a physiological/psychological phenomenon.
Referring to the outward display of feelings.
Literally 'emotional expression'. Used when talking about how someone shows their emotions.
彼は感情表現が豊かだ。
He is very expressive with his emotions.
A common phrase meaning 'to show one's emotions openly'.
彼女はめったに感情を表に出さない。
She rarely shows her emotions.
Emphasizing intensity of feeling.
Means 'violent emotion' or 'passion'. Used for intense, often uncontrollable feelings.
彼は激情に駆られて叫んだ。
Driven by intense emotion, he shouted.
Refers to being deeply moved or emotionally touched, often by something beautiful or impressive.
感情 (かんじょう) is more objective and can be used in formal or academic contexts. 気持ち (きもち) is subjective and personal, often used for one's own feelings in daily conversation. 感情 can sound slightly detached, while 気持ち feels warmer and more intimate.
The English word 'emotional' (easily affected by emotions) is often translated as 感情的 (かんじょうてき), but 感情的 in Japanese usually means 'irrational' or 'hot-headed' in a negative sense. To say someone is emotionally sensitive, use 感受性が強い (かんじゅせいがつよい) or 感情豊か (かんじょうゆたか).
情動は脳の扁桃体と深く関わっている。
Emotions are deeply connected to the amygdala in the brain.
その映画に深い感動を覚えた。
I was deeply moved by that movie.