Translation guide
The English word 'amorous' describes showing, feeling, or relating to romantic love or sexual desire. This guide covers natural Japanese ways to express amorous feelings, looks, relationships, and advances, from common adjectives to idiomatic phrases.
Describe a person, glance, or action that is openly romantic or sexually interested.
An i-adjective meaning 'sexy', 'sensual', or 'amorous' in a way that suggests allure and romantic appeal. Often used for a person's appearance, voice, or manner.
She gazed at him with amorous eyes.
Similar to 色っぽい but with a nuance of glossy charm or romantic allure. Often used for a voice or atmosphere.
His voice is amorous; just listening makes my heart race.
A phrase meaning 'full of romantic feelings'. Used to describe a look, letter, or atmosphere that is deeply amorous.
He wrote an amorous letter.
Describes a couple being overly affectionate or lovey-dovey in public. Can be seen as amorous behavior, but often with a slightly negative or teasing nuance.
There was an amorous couple canoodling in the park.
Describe something that is connected to love affairs or sexual passion, like an adventure or relationship.
The most direct way to say 'amorous' in the sense of 'relating to romantic love'. Attach to a noun.
He was seeking amorous adventures.
A slightly old-fashioned or literary term for 'amorous' or 'romantic/sexual'. Often used in phrases like 色恋沙汰 (love affair).
He has a lot of amorous experience.
Specifically refers to a sexual affair or liaison. 'Amorous' in a more physical, often secretive sense.
He continued the amorous relationship.
Describe a person who is amorous by nature, often falling in love or being romantic.
A literary adjective meaning 'having many loves' or 'amorous'. Describes a person who has had many romantic relationships.
He is known as an amorous man.
An i-adjective meaning 'prone to falling in love easily'. More casual and often used for someone who gets crushes quickly.
A na-adjective meaning 'lustful' or 'lecherous'. Stronger and more negative than 'amorous', implying excessive sexual desire.
This word has a negative connotation of lechery, unlike the more neutral 'amorous'. Use carefully.
Describe the act of showing romantic or sexual interest, such as making a pass or flirting.
A verb meaning 'to woo', 'to make amorous advances', or 'to chat up'. Commonly used for trying to seduce or persuade someone romantically.
He tried to make amorous advances on her.
A verb meaning 'to make romantic advances' or 'to court'. Slightly more formal or literary than 口説く.
Slang for 'to hit on' or 'pick up'. Refers to amorous approaches, often in public places like streets or bars.
He is making amorous advances on girls in the street.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'amorous'. Choose the option that best fits the specific nuance: romantic allure, sexual desire, or a person's nature.
Both mean 'amorous/sexy', but 色っぽい is more about physical allure, while 艶っぽい often describes a glossy, charming quality in voice or atmosphere.
He gave her an amorous look.
She is known for her amorous adventures.
彼女は惚れっぽい性格だ。
She has an amorous nature.
He looks at women with amorous eyes.
彼は彼女に言い寄ったが、断られた。
He made amorous advances toward her but was rejected.