Translation guide
To become anxious, tense, or uneasy, often in anticipation of something. Japanese has several common expressions depending on the cause and intensity.
I get nervous when speaking in front of people.
I always get nervous before interviews.
Onomatopoeic expression for a pounding heart, often used for nervous excitement or romantic tension.
I get nervous when I see the person I like.
Literally 'become anxious.' Used when nervousness is more about worry or unease about an uncertain outcome.
I get nervous worrying about the exam results.
Describes restless, fidgety nervousness, like when waiting for important news.
I'm getting nervous waiting for the results.
When the nervousness is tied to a particular upcoming task like a presentation, performance, or competition.
Again, the default choice. It fits almost any situation where you feel performance anxiety.
I got nervous during my first presentation.
Specifically means to get stage fright or freeze up due to nerves. Very common for public speaking or performing.
Means to get flustered or lose composure due to nervousness, often in formal settings.
When nervousness arises from interacting with someone you like or want to impress.
The go-to expression for heart-pounding nervousness around a crush or romantic interest.
I get nervous when I talk to him.
Also used in romantic contexts, but can sound slightly more formal or serious than ドキドキする.
I get nervous before a date.
Means to feel shy or embarrassed, often overlapping with nervousness in romantic situations.
緊張する is the general term for nervousness. ドキドキする focuses on the physical sensation of a racing heart, often from excitement or romantic feelings. あがる specifically means stage fright or freezing up during a performance.
Avoid literal translations like 'ナーバスになる' (nervous). While understood, it's not natural Japanese. Stick to the expressions above.
I always get nervous before exams.
She gets nervous when talking to strangers.
I got nervous and froze up during my speech.
I got nervous and flustered in front of the large crowd.
好きな人に褒められて照れた。
I got nervous/shy when the person I like complimented me.