Translation guide
The English verb 'express' covers a wide range of situations, from stating thoughts and feelings to showing emotions through actions or art. Japanese uses different verbs and constructions depending on what is being expressed and how. This guide organizes the most useful Japanese equivalents by meaning.
To put thoughts, feelings, or opinions into spoken or written words.
A general, slightly formal verb for stating or expressing thoughts, opinions, or facts. Common in both speech and writing.
I expressed my opinion.
He expressed his gratitude.
To express or show something abstract, like feelings, thoughts, or meaning, often through words, symbols, or actions. Very common.
It's difficult to express feelings in words.
This painting expresses a wish for peace.
To express something in words, often when it is difficult to put into words. Emphasizes the act of verbalizing.
That beauty cannot be expressed in words.
To express or declare a stance, intention, or policy formally. Often used in official or public contexts.
The government expressed its support.
To show or convey feelings, personality, or ideas without words, e.g., through facial expressions, art, or behavior.
Used for expressing emotions, ideas, or qualities through non-verbal means like art, music, or facial expressions.
She expressed her joy with her whole body.
To express oneself or an idea creatively, often through art, music, or personal style. Common in artistic and everyday contexts.
For feelings or character to be expressed naturally and unintentionally, as if seeping out. Often used for subtle, genuine expressions.
To represent a quantity, formula, or value in a particular form or unit.
To extract liquid or substance by pressing or squeezing.
To communicate one's thoughts or personality in a way that others understand well.
A natural phrase meaning 'to convey one's thoughts well'. Focuses on successful communication.
I couldn't express myself well.
To express oneself, often used in contexts of personal identity or creativity.
Fashion is a form of self-expression.
Both mean 'to express', but 表す is broader and can be used for showing feelings through actions or symbols, while 表現する emphasizes creative or artistic expression. 表す is also used in technical contexts (e.g., expressing a value).
English learners often overuse 表現する for any 'express'. In many cases, 表す or 述べる is more natural. For stating opinions, 述べる is better; for showing emotions non-verbally, 表す is preferred.
This song expresses sadness.
He expresses himself through painting.
Please express your emotions freely.
His kindness was expressed in his expression.
This graph expresses the temperature change.
Express oil from soybeans.