Translation guide
Expresses a shift into a state of heightened emotion, enthusiasm, or agitation. Japanese uses different verbs depending on the nuance: general excitement, getting worked up, being thrilled, or becoming agitated.
To become excited in a positive, enthusiastic way, often about an upcoming event or something enjoyable.
The most general term for becoming excited, covering both positive excitement and agitation. Can be used for emotional arousal.
試合の前はいつも興奮する。
I always get excited before a match.
Expresses a light, happy, childlike excitement or anticipation. Very common in casual speech.
旅行のことを考えるとワクワクする。
I get excited just thinking about the trip.
Describes a group or atmosphere becoming lively and excited. Often used for parties, events, or conversations.
パーティーがだんだん盛り上がってきた。
The party is getting more and more exciting.
Casual phrase meaning 'to get hyped' or 'to get in high spirits'. Often used among younger speakers.
好きな曲がかかるとテンションが上がる。
I get excited when my favorite song comes on.
To become emotionally aroused, often with a negative or intense connotation, such as getting upset, nervous, or overly passionate.
Also used for negative excitement or agitation. Context determines whether it's positive or negative.
彼は怒りで興奮していた。
He was worked up with anger.
Literally 'become hot', used figuratively for getting passionate or heated, especially in discussions or competitions.
議論が白熱して、みんな熱くなった。
The debate heated up and everyone got excited.
To become overly serious or worked up about something trivial, often in a childish way.
ゲームに負けてムキになる。
He gets worked up when he loses a game.
To be so excited that one feels a rush of emotion, often from an impressive experience or achievement.
To be deeply moved or impressed, often to the point of excitement. Common for art, performances, or touching moments.
その映画を見て感動した。
I was thrilled by that movie.
Literally 'chest dances', a poetic expression for thrilling excitement or anticipation.
新しい冒険に胸が躍る。
My heart leaps with excitement at the new adventure.
To become so excited that one loses self-control or acts impulsively.
To get carried away, often with a negative nuance of becoming overconfident or pushy due to excitement.
褒められて調子に乗る。
He gets carried away when praised.
To be in high spirits, often in a lighthearted, merry way, sometimes implying a lack of seriousness.
興奮する can be used for both positive and negative excitement, and is more formal. ワクワクする is always positive, childlike anticipation, and is casual.
プレゼントを開けるとき、子供たちはワクワクしている。
The children are excited when opening presents.
事故の知らせを聞いて興奮した。
I got agitated when I heard about the accident.
Do not use '興奮になる' (excited become). The correct verb is '興奮する' (suru-verb). Many emotional states use 'する' rather than 'になる'.
興奮する
become excited
コンサートが楽しみでワクワクする！
I'm so excited about the concert!
あまり興奮しないで。
Don't get too excited.
彼女はデートの前の日から浮かれている。
She's been giddy with excitement since the day before her date.