Translation guide
The English phrase "big game" can refer to large wild animals hunted for sport, or to an important sports match or competition. This guide covers both meanings.
Referring to large wild animals like deer, bears, or lions that are hunted.
Literally 'big thing', this is the most common and natural way to refer to big game animals in hunting contexts.
Referring to a highly significant or decisive game in sports.
彼はアフリカで大物を狩りに行った。
He went to Africa to hunt big game.
Means 'large animal' and can be used in contexts like hunting or wildlife, though it's more general and less idiomatic than 大物.
この地域では大型獣の狩猟が禁止されている。
Hunting of big game is prohibited in this area.
Specifically means 'big game hunting'. Used when the activity itself is the focus.
大物猟は危険を伴う。
Big game hunting involves danger.
Means 'big match' or 'crucial contest'. Commonly used in sports contexts for a decisive game.
明日は優勝がかかった大一番だ。
Tomorrow is the big game that will decide the championship.
Simply 'important match'. A straightforward and natural way to express the idea.
今夜は大事な試合がある。
There's a big game tonight.
A loanword from English, sometimes used in sports media, but less natural than Japanese expressions.
このビッグゲームは全国放送される。
This big game will be broadcast nationwide.