Translation guide
The act of taking air into and expelling it from the lungs. In Japanese, the most common word is 呼吸 (kokyuu), but there are also specific terms for breathing techniques, breath as a sign of life, and idiomatic expressions.
The physiological process of inhaling and exhaling.
The standard noun for 'breathing' or 'respiration'. Can be used in medical, everyday, and figurative contexts.
Please take a deep breath.
I have difficulty breathing.
Literally 'breath', often used in phrases like 'take a breath' or 'hold your breath'. More concrete than 呼吸.
Please breathe in.
Don't hold your breath.
Refers to the way one breathes, often implying audible breathing or breath sounds. Used in literary or descriptive contexts.
His breathing is rough.
A specific method of breathing, often in martial arts, meditation, or sports.
Breathing as an indicator that someone is alive.
A short rest or pause from pressure.
呼吸 (kokyuu) is the abstract process of respiration, while 息 (iki) is the physical breath. Use 呼吸 for medical or technical contexts, and 息 for everyday phrases like 'take a breath' or 'hold your breath'.
English uses 'breathing' in many figurative ways (e.g., 'breathing room', 'breathing down my neck'). These rarely translate directly to 呼吸. Instead, learn the specific Japanese idioms.
泳ぐときの息継ぎが難しい。
Breathing while swimming is difficult.
Euphemism for 'to die', literally 'to take one's last breath'.
My grandfather passed away peacefully.
たまには息抜きも必要だ。
Sometimes you need a break too.