Translation guide
The English word "blood" refers to the red liquid in the body, but also appears in many idioms and metaphorical uses. This guide covers the literal meaning, common expressions, and figurative uses, with natural Japanese equivalents.
To refer to the physical substance blood.
To talk about family ties by birth.
Literally 'blood is connected', meaning to be related by blood.
To describe someone's passionate or fiery nature.
To express that something required great effort or sacrifice.
Literally 'as if oozing blood', describing painstaking effort.
To refer to killing or violent conflict.
To shed blood; to cause casualties.
To describe someone as lacking emotion or mercy.
To say something is an inherent trait or talent.
Bloodline; often used to explain innate ability or character.
To talk about blood type as a personality indicator (common in Japan).
The English idiom 'bad blood' (ill feeling) does not translate directly. Use 確執 (かくしつ) or 不和 (ふわ) for discord, or 悪感情 (あくかんじょう) for ill will.
There is bad blood between the two.
In Japan, blood type is often discussed as a personality trait. It's a common small-talk topic, similar to zodiac signs in the West.
血液検査を受けました。
I had a blood test.
He and I are not related by blood.
Blood relation; often used in formal contexts.
to be related by blood
Blood connection; similar to 血がつながっている but as a noun phrase.
Even without blood ties, we are family.
He is hot-blooded.
Literally 'blood stirs', meaning to feel excited or thrilled, often by one's nature or heritage.
My blood stirs when I see a festival.
After painstaking effort, he succeeded.
Fruit of blood and sweat; a common metaphor for hard-earned results.
This work is the fruit of blood and sweat.
We must not shed any more blood.
Bloodbath; carnage. Often used figuratively for a brutal competition.
The match turned into a bloodbath.
Literally 'without blood or tears', meaning cold-hearted, ruthless.
Doing such a thing, he has no heart.
Cold-blooded (adjective). Often used for crimes or personality.
a cold-blooded murderer
His talent is in his blood.
You can't fight blood; a proverb meaning blood will tell, like father like son.
He also likes music. Blood will tell.
Blood type. Often used in casual conversation about personality.
What's your blood type?
People with type A blood are said to be meticulous.
He donated blood.