Translation guide
Expressing the sensation of hunger in Japanese, from casual to polite, including common phrases and onomatopoeia.
I'm starving.
Expressing that you are hungry in everyday conversation.
The most common and natural way to say 'I'm hungry.' Literally 'stomach has become empty.' Used in casual to polite contexts.
I'm hungry. Let's eat something.
Polite form of お腹が空いた. Suitable for formal situations or when speaking to superiors.
Very casual, masculine expression. Literally 'stomach decreased.' Used among close friends.
I'm starving! I want ramen.
Expressing strong hunger, like 'I'm starving.'
Onomatopoeic expression for being very hungry. Casual and commonly used.
Inquiring about another person's hunger.
Casual question meaning 'Are you hungry?' Used with friends and family.
Describing the state of being hungry, often in narrative or explanatory contexts.
お腹が空いた is the everyday expression for hunger. 空腹 is more formal and often used in writing or polite speech. In casual conversation, お腹が空いた is preferred.
I'm hungry, so let's go to the convenience store.
I'm feeling a bit hungry.
Excuse me, I'm hungry.
I'm starving.
Describes the stomach growling from hunger. Onomatopoeic and vivid.
My stomach is growling. It's embarrassing.
Are you hungry? Shall I make something?
Polite way to ask if someone is hungry.
Are you hungry? I'll prepare a light meal.
Noun meaning 'hunger' or 'empty stomach.' Used in more formal or written contexts.
I feel hunger.
Plain form statement 'I am hungry.' Slightly more formal than お腹が空いた.
I'm hungry. Isn't there anything to eat?
Due to hunger, I can't concentrate.
Do not translate 'feel hungry' literally as 空腹を感じる in casual speech. It sounds unnatural. Use お腹が空いた instead.
Are you hungry yet?