Translation guide
Expresses the idea of every living being, from humans to animals and plants. Japanese often uses set phrases or compounds rather than a single word.
Referring to every living organism, including humans, animals, and plants, in a broad or philosophical sense.
The most direct and common way to say 'all living creatures'. Neutral and widely understood.
All living creatures need water.
Emphasizes 'every possible' living thing, slightly more literary.
Every living creature is part of the ecosystem.
Means 'living things' or 'organisms'. Often used in scientific or educational contexts. Can be combined with すべての or あらゆる.
All living creatures on Earth have evolved.
A poetic, literary phrase meaning 'all living things'. Often used in religious or philosophical contexts.
Compassion for all living creatures.
Focusing on animals, often in contexts of animal rights or nature.
Used in religious, ethical, or spiritual discussions about sentient life.
生き物 (いきもの) is the everyday word for 'living thing', often with a warmer, more familiar nuance. 生物 (せいぶつ) is more scientific and objective, like 'organism'. Use 生き物 in general conversation and 生物 in academic contexts.
Children like living things.
We dissected a frog in biology class.
The English word 'creatures' can sometimes be translated as クリーチャー (creature) in fantasy or gaming contexts, but for general use, 生き物 or 生物 is much more natural. Using クリーチャー for real animals sounds unnatural.
Also used in spiritual contexts to include all life, not just animals.
All living creatures possess Buddha-nature.