leap, dance, skip
躍 centers on springing upward or forward with energy: leaping, skipping, or dancing with lively motion.
躍 combines 足 (foot) with 翟, which likely contributes the sound and the idea of a bird's quick, hopping movement, together expressing leaping or dancing.
The left side 足 means foot, and the right side 翟 suggests a bird's quick movements. Picture a foot springing up like a startled bird: leaping, skipping, and dancing.
For ヤク, imagine a yak leaping and dancing across a field: yak -> ヤク, and its heavy body springs up with surprising energy.
activity (esp. energetic or successful); great efforts; active participation
leap; jump
making rapid progress; making great advances; rush; dash; onslaught
lively motion; throb
to jump up; to spring up; to leap
suddenly (rising to fame, etc.); instantly; immediately; overnight
secret manoeuvres (maneuvers); operating behind the scenes
desperate; frantic; excited; worked up; heated; eager
jump; leap; skip; bound
dancing or jumping for joy
to leap out (e.g. onto the stage); to spring out
vivid; lifelike; graphic
taking heart; being in high spirits
being very active; being very useful; playing a very active part; making a spectacular showing; great efforts; splendid work
Great Leap Forward (failed attempt to industrialize China and increase agricultural production; 1958-1960)
to be thrilled; to be excited
to get excited
to be thrilled; to be excited
time travel; leaping through time
behind-the-scenes maneuvering; behind-the-scenes manoeuvering; secret maneuvers; secret manoeuvres