Translation guide
The English word "ease" covers several distinct meanings: lack of difficulty, comfort/relaxation, and the action of making something less severe. Japanese expresses these with different words and phrases. This guide breaks them down by intended meaning.
Describing that something is easy to do or happens without difficulty.
The most common word for "easy" or "simple." Used for tasks, problems, or things that are not complicated.
This problem is easy.
Cooking is easy.
A more formal or written word for "easy." Often used in official contexts or when describing something that can be done without much effort.
It's not a problem that can be easily solved.
Means "easy" in the sense of being comfortable or not requiring much physical/mental effort. Often used for tasks or situations that are not strenuous.
This job is easy (not hard work).
Please sit in a comfortable position.
An adverbial phrase meaning "without difficulty" or "easily." Somewhat literary.
He passed the exam with ease.
Describing a state of being comfortable, relaxed, or free from anxiety.
Means "peace of mind" or "relief." Used when someone feels safe or free from worry.
I felt at ease when I heard the news.
Means "carefree" or "at ease." Describes a relaxed mental state without pressure.
A verb meaning "to relax" or "to make oneself comfortable," often physically.
A loanword from English, commonly used for "relax."
I listen to music and relax.
Describing the action of reducing pain, tension, difficulty, or burden.
Transitive verb meaning "to soften," "to ease (pain, tension, etc.)."
A formal term meaning "to ease," "to mitigate," or "to alleviate." Often used for regulations, pain, or stress.
to ease regulations
Means "to reduce" or "to lighten" a burden, pain, or load. Often used in formal contexts.
to ease the burden
A common phrase meaning "to make easier" or "to relieve." Used for physical or mental comfort.
I'll make it a little easier for you.
Describing moving something slowly and carefully into position.
English "ease" is often used in set phrases like "at ease" (military) or "ill at ease." These have specific Japanese equivalents that don't use the words above. For example, "ill at ease" is 落ち着かない (おちつかない). Always consider the whole phrase.
簡単 (かんたん) is the most general and common word for "easy." 容易 (ようい) is more formal and often used in writing. 楽 (らく) implies comfort and lack of strenuous effort, not just simplicity.
He passed the test with ease.
I feel at ease here.
This medicine will ease the pain.
Please rest assured. (Please feel at ease.)
Please speak freely (without feeling tense).
He is always at ease.
家でくつろいでいる。
I'm relaxing at home.
ストレスを緩和する方法
ways to ease stress
心を楽にする。
to ease one's mind