Translation guide
The English word 'game' covers a wide range of meanings, from sports and video games to wild animals and romantic pursuits. This guide organizes the most common and useful Japanese expressions by meaning, helping learners choose the right word for each context.
Referring to electronic games played on consoles, computers, or mobile devices.
The most common and general term for any electronic game. Borrowed from English.
I bought a new game yesterday.
Specifically refers to video games played on a TV or console. Slightly dated but still understood.
When I was a kid, I did nothing but play video games.
Less common than ゲーム, but used in formal or technical contexts.
I'm researching the history of video games.
A competitive activity with rules, often physical, such as baseball, soccer, or a single contest.
The standard word for a sports match or game. Used for both team and individual sports.
I wonder if we can win tomorrow's game.
Refers to a sport or athletic event, often in an official or competitive context. Can also mean 'competition'.
Also used for sports matches, especially in casual speech or when counting games within a match (e.g., tennis).
A non-electronic, often simple activity for fun, like tag, hide-and-seek, or board games.
General word for play or a game children play. Emphasizes the fun, unstructured aspect.
The children are playing a game outside.
Also used for non-electronic games, especially those with rules like board games, card games, or party games.
Formal or literary term for play or games. Often used in compound words like 遊戯施設 (amusement facilities).
A game with specific components and rules, often played on a table.
Direct loanword for board game. Widely understood.
I enjoyed playing board games with friends over the weekend.
Direct loanword for card game.
Explain the rules of the card game.
Table game; a broader category including board games, card games, and sometimes tabletop RPGs.
Animals such as deer, birds, or fish that are hunted.
Refers to game animals or prey. Also used metaphorically for a target or victim.
He is pursuing game in the mountains.
Loanword from French 'gibier', used for wild game meat, especially in culinary contexts.
The act of trying to attract someone romantically, or the 'game' of dating.
Expressing readiness or agreement to join an activity, as in 'I'm game.'
While ゲーム is versatile, it can sound unnatural for sports matches (use 試合) or children's unstructured play (use 遊び). Overusing ゲーム may mark you as a non-native speaker.
I'm going to watch a soccer game.
I'm going to watch a soccer game. (unnatural)
Many games (sports) are held at the Olympics.
The next game will decide it.
Let's play a card game.
Children are playing in the game room.
I like table games and often get together to play.
This restaurant is famous for its game dishes.
Technical/legal term for game birds and animals. Used in hunting regulations.
The types of game animals are specified by law.