Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'fainting' depends on the cause and context. The most common medical term is 失神 (loss of consciousness), while 気絶 is more colloquial and often implies fainting from shock or emotion. 卒倒 is a somewhat older term for sudden collapse. For heat-related fainting, 熱中症 or 立ちくらみ (dizziness upon standing) may be more natural. This guide covers medical, emotional, and situational expressions.
To describe fainting as a medical event, such as syncope or passing out due to a health issue.
The standard medical term for fainting or syncope. Used in formal and clinical contexts.
He fainted from anemia.
Literally 'to lose consciousness'. A common, slightly more descriptive way to say 'faint'.
She suddenly lost consciousness.
An older or literary term for fainting or collapsing. Less common in modern speech.
I almost fainted from the heat.
To express fainting due to surprise, fear, or overwhelming emotion, often in casual or dramatic contexts.
Commonly used for fainting or passing out, especially from shock, pain, or emotion. Can also mean 'knocked out'.
I almost fainted when I heard the news.
Can be used for fainting from shock, but sounds slightly dated or dramatic.
He fainted at the sight.
To describe the sensation of being about to faint, lightheadedness, or dizziness, rather than actual loss of consciousness.
Specifically refers to dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing up, often leading to fainting. Very common.
I felt dizzy and almost collapsed.
General dizziness or vertigo. Not necessarily fainting, but often used when feeling faint.
I suddenly felt dizzy and sat down.
Literally 'to have an anemia attack'. Used when fainting is caused by anemia, often implying a chronic condition.
To describe fainting or collapsing specifically due to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.
失神 is the clinical term for syncope. 気絶 is more colloquial and often implies fainting from shock, pain, or being knocked out. 卒倒 is an older term for sudden collapse, now mostly literary. For everyday 'fainting', 気絶 or 意識を失う are safest.
フェイント (from English 'faint') means a feint or deceptive move in sports/games, not losing consciousness.
She fainted at the sight of blood.
He passed out from dehydration.
She often faints due to anemia.
I fainted from the heat under the blazing sun.