Translation guide
The English word "fire" covers combustion, shooting, dismissal, and enthusiasm. Japanese uses different words for each meaning. This guide helps you choose the right one.
The physical phenomenon of burning, including flames, heat, and light.
General word for fire, flames, or a fire (as in a fireplace or campfire).
火をつける
to light a fire
火が消えた
The fire went out.
A destructive fire, such as a building fire or wildfire. Use this for fires that cause damage.
Flame or blaze. More literary or dramatic than 火. Often used in descriptions.
炎が上がる
Flames rise up.
Fire disaster. Formal term used in news reports and official contexts.
火災報知器
fire alarm
The act of shooting a gun or other weapon.
To terminate someone's employment.
Strong emotion, energy, or motivation.
Passion, enthusiasm. Often used for artistic or romantic passion.
彼は情熱を持って仕事をしている
He works with passion.
Enthusiasm, zeal. Often used in work or study contexts.
熱意がある
to have enthusiasm
Motivation, willingness to do something. Common in everyday speech.
やる気が出ない
I can't get motivated.
The verb 火をつける means 'to light a fire', not 'to fire a gun'. For shooting, use 発砲する or 銃を撃つ.
火 is a general word for fire or flame. 火事 specifically means a destructive fire (building fire, forest fire). Saying 火事をつける is wrong; use 火をつける for lighting a fire.
shooting practice
The boss fired him.
I was always late and got fired.