Translation guide
The English word 'emotion' covers a broad range of feelings. In Japanese, there is no single perfect equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean a specific feeling, the general concept of emotions, or emotional expression.
Referring to a particular emotion someone is experiencing.
The most common and general word for 'emotion' or 'feeling'. It can refer to any specific emotion.
He couldn't control his emotions.
Complex emotions welled up.
Often translated as 'feeling', it is more subjective and personal than 感情. Commonly used in everyday conversation.
I can't put my current feelings into words.
Talking about emotions in an abstract or philosophical sense.
Also used for the abstract concept. Often contrasted with 理性 (reason).
A balance between emotion and reason is important.
A technical term used in psychology and neuroscience for 'emotion' as a physiological/psychological phenomenon.
Referring to the outward display of feelings.
Emphasizing intensity of feeling.
感情 (かんじょう) is more objective and can be used in formal or academic contexts. 気持ち (きもち) is subjective and personal, often used for one's own feelings in daily conversation. 感情 can sound slightly detached, while 気持ち feels warmer and more intimate.
The English word 'emotional' (easily affected by emotions) is often translated as 感情的 (かんじょうてき), but 感情的 in Japanese usually means 'irrational' or 'hot-headed' in a negative sense. To say someone is emotionally sensitive, use 感受性が強い (かんじゅせいがつよい) or 感情豊か (かんじょうゆたか).
情動は脳の扁桃体と深く関わっている。
Emotions are deeply connected to the amygdala in the brain.
She rarely shows her emotions.
その映画に深い感動を覚えた。
I was deeply moved by that movie.