Translation guide
The English word 'gamble' can refer to the act of betting money, taking a risk in hopes of a desired outcome, or a risky undertaking. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 賭け事 (kakegoto) for gambling as an activity, while the verb 'to gamble' is often expressed as 賭ける (kakeru) or ギャンブルをする (gyanburu o suru). Figurative uses like 'take a gamble' are expressed with phrases like 賭けに出る (kake ni deru) or 思い切ってやる (omoikitte yaru).
The act of risking money on an uncertain outcome, such as casino games, sports betting, or lotteries.
General term for gambling as an activity. Often used in formal or descriptive contexts.
He lost his fortune through gambling.
Loanword from English, widely used for gambling in general, especially casino-style gambling.
Verb phrase meaning 'to gamble' (engage in betting activities).
Gambling is dangerous.
Common verb phrase for 'to gamble', especially in casual conversation.
He gambles every night.
Traditional term for gambling, often with a slightly negative or old-fashioned connotation. Can imply illegal or disreputable gambling.
To take a chance or risk in hopes of achieving something, not necessarily involving money.
Literally 'to go out on a gamble', meaning to take a calculated risk or make a bold move.
He took a gamble on a new business.
Means 'to do something decisively' or 'to take the plunge', often used when taking a risk.
I took a gamble and changed jobs.
Means 'to try something on the off chance' or 'to take a chance', literally 'one or eight' (from dice gambling).
Verb meaning 'to bet' or 'to stake', can be used figuratively for risking something valuable.
A noun referring to an enterprise or action that involves risk.
Noun meaning 'a gamble' or 'a bet', often used in phrases like 'a big gamble'.
It was a big gamble.
Means 'adventure' or 'risk', can be used for a risky undertaking, though less directly about gambling.
Loanword 'risk', often used in business contexts to describe a gamble.
While ギャンブル is common for casino gambling, using it for figurative risks (like 'gambling on love') can sound unnatural. Use 賭け or 賭けに出る for metaphorical gambles.
to gamble on love
賭け事 is a native Japanese word and can sound more formal or traditional. ギャンブル is a loanword and feels more modern and casual. Both are widely understood.
週末はよくギャンブルに行く。
I often go gambling on weekends.
Don't get involved in gambling.
I took a gamble and proposed the plan.
彼は全財産をその計画に賭けた。
He gambled his entire fortune on the plan.
その投資は冒険だった。
That investment was a gamble.
There's a big gamble involved in that plan.