Translation guide
The activity or art of moving rhythmically to music. In Japanese, the most common word is ダンス, but there are also traditional terms like 踊り and 舞踊. The choice depends on context: Western-style social/performance dance vs. traditional Japanese dance.
To refer to dancing as a recreational activity, performance, or art form, especially in a modern or Western context.
The most common and versatile word for dancing in modern Japanese. It covers social dancing, club dancing, and many performance styles. Often used in compounds like ダンスパーティー (dance party) or ダンススクール (dance school).
On weekends I go dancing with friends.
A native Japanese word for dance. It can refer to dancing in general, but often implies traditional Japanese dance or a specific style. In casual speech, it's used alongside ダンス.
A more formal term for dance, often used in artistic or classical contexts, such as 日本舞踊 (traditional Japanese dance) or 現代舞踊 (modern dance as an art form).
To refer specifically to classical or folk dances of Japan, such as Noh, Kabuki, or Bon Odori.
To describe the action of dancing, as in 'to dance'.
The most common verb for 'to dance'. It can be used for any kind of dancing, from club dancing to traditional dance.
To talk about a dance performance, a dance party, or a specific type of dance.
ダンス is the default for modern/Western dance. 踊り is broader and can include traditional dance, but is also used casually. 舞踊 is formal and artistic. Use ダンス for most everyday situations.
I'm learning hip-hop dance.
She is very good at dancing.
Bon dancing is a summer tradition.
He likes dancing.
She aspires to pursue a career in dance.
The standard term for traditional Japanese dance as a performing art. Often abbreviated as 日舞 (にちぶ).
I'm learning traditional Japanese dance.
In context, 踊り can refer to folk dances like 盆踊り or 阿波踊り. It's less formal than 舞踊.
Awa Odori is a famous dance from Tokushima.
A more refined, often slower and more stylized dance, as in Noh or Kagura. Contrasts with 踊り (odori), which is more lively and rhythmic.
Noh dancing is quiet and beautiful.
Let's dance to the music.
He danced all night.
A verb formed from ダンス, often used for Western-style social or performance dancing. Slightly more modern/casual feel.
Would you like to dance with me?
A more poetic or literary verb for dancing, often implying a graceful, floating movement. Used for butterflies, cherry blossoms, or classical dance.
Butterflies are dancing among the flowers.
A dance party or social dance event. Often shortened to ダンスパ.
There's a dance party tonight.
A formal ball or dance, like a debutante ball or a masquerade. Has a classical, European connotation.
Cinderella danced with the prince at the ball.
A dance performance or recital, often used for staged productions.
I'm going to see a dance performance next month.
I participated in the Bon dance.
舞踊 sounds very formal and is not used for casual dancing. Using it for a nightclub or party would sound strange.