Translation guide
The physical or metaphorical line marking the end of a race or competition. In Japanese, the most common term is ゴール, borrowed from English, but native words like 決勝線 are used in formal sports contexts. For metaphorical uses, ゴール is also common.
Referring to the actual line or point that marks the end of a race, such as in track, swimming, or marathons.
The most common and versatile term for 'finish line' in both physical and metaphorical contexts. Used in sports, games, and everyday conversation.
彼は最初にゴールに着いた。
He reached the finish line first.
マラソンのゴールはスタジアムの中にある。
The marathon finish line is inside the stadium.
A more formal term used in official sports contexts, especially track and field or swimming. Literally 'final-decision line'.
選手たちは決勝線を目指して全力で走った。
The athletes ran at full speed toward the finish line.
A direct loanword from English, used occasionally in sports commentary or writing, but less common than ゴール.
フィニッシュラインを切る瞬間が一番感動的だ。
The moment you cross the finish line is the most moving.
Using 'finish line' figuratively to mean the end of a project, journey, or long effort.
Also the standard term for metaphorical finish lines. Can be used for project deadlines, life goals, etc.
このプロジェクトのゴールは来月だ。
The finish line for this project is next month.
人生のゴールは人それぞれだ。
The finish line in life is different for everyone.
Literally 'terminal point', used for the end of a journey or process. More formal and less common than ゴール.
長い交渉の終着点が見えてきた。
We can finally see the finish line of the long negotiations.
The action of finishing a race or completing something.
The verb form meaning 'to finish (a race)' or 'to reach the goal'. Very common.
彼女は笑顔でゴールした。
She crossed the finish line with a smile.
Literally 'cut the finish line', a common expression for crossing the finish line, especially in running races.
トップでゴールを切った。
He crossed the finish line first.
ゴール is widely understood as 'goal' or 'finish line' in Japanese. It can be used for deadlines, life goals, and even video game objectives. However, in very formal writing, 決勝線 or 終着点 may be preferred.