Translation guide
The English word "passion" covers strong emotions, intense enthusiasm, romantic love, and suffering. Japanese expresses these ideas with different words depending on the nuance. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
Expressing a deep, energetic love for an activity, hobby, or cause.
The most direct equivalent for 'passion' as intense enthusiasm or zeal. Commonly used for hobbies, work, or life goals.
彼は音楽に情熱を注いでいる。
He pours his passion into music.
情熱を持って仕事に取り組む。
I tackle my work with passion.
Enthusiasm or eagerness, often used in formal or professional contexts. Slightly less intense than 情熱.
彼の熱意が伝わってきた。
His passion (enthusiasm) came through.
Being absorbed or obsessed with something. Often used as a verb (熱中する).
彼はゲームに熱中している。
He is passionate about games (absorbed in them).
To devote oneself to something with passion. Verb phrase.
彼女はボランティア活動に打ち込んでいる。
She is passionate about volunteering (devotes herself to it).
Expressing intense love or lust.
Also used for romantic passion, though it can sound slightly literary or dramatic.
二人は情熱的な恋に落ちた。
They fell into a passionate love.
Violent emotion, intense passion. Often implies uncontrollable feelings, sometimes negative.
Sexual desire, lust. More direct and physical than 情熱.
Referring to the Passion of Christ or intense suffering.
Specifically the Passion of Christ. Also means 'suffering' or 'ordeal'.
キリストの受難を描いた映画。
A movie depicting the Passion of Christ.
Hardship, suffering. Not limited to religious context.
Expressing a softer, less intense enthusiasm.
Literally 'like very much'. Common and natural for expressing passion for hobbies or interests in casual speech.
サッカーが大好きです。
I have a passion for soccer (I love soccer).
Hobby. Often used to describe a passion in a more understated way.
料理が趣味です。
Cooking is my passion (hobby).
情熱 implies a deeper, more emotional passion, while 熱意 is more about eagerness and proactive enthusiasm, often in work or study settings.
In many casual contexts, saying 'I have a passion for...' sounds overly dramatic in Japanese. Using 大好き or 趣味 is often more natural.
彼女は環境問題について熱意を込めて話した。
She spoke with passion about environmental issues.
彼の音楽への情熱は人を感動させる。
His passion for music is inspiring.
激情にかられて彼女にキスをした。
Driven by passion, he kissed her.
欲情を抑えられなかった。
I couldn't control my passion (lust).
He overcame many passions (sufferings).