Translation guide
Expresses the experience of a sudden, involuntary muscle contraction causing pain. Japanese uses specific verbs and nouns depending on the body part and context.
To say that a muscle is cramping or has cramped, typically in the leg or foot.
Literally 'calf reversal occurs'. The most common way to say 'have a cramp' in the leg/calf. こむら返り refers specifically to a leg cramp.
I woke up in the middle of the night with a cramp.
Literally 'leg/foot cramps'. A very common, casual way to say you have a cramp in the leg or foot. つる is the verb for 'to cramp'.
I got a cramp while swimming.
More formal/medical term: 'muscle spasms/cramps'. Used for any muscle, not just legs.
My muscle cramped during exercise.
To express cramping pain in the abdomen, often related to menstruation or digestion.
Specifically 'menstrual cramps'. 生理痛 means menstrual pain.
I had bad cramps, so I took medicine.
General stomach cramping/spasms. Can be used for digestive cramps.
I had stomach cramps after eating.
Describes a sharp, stabbing cramp in the abdomen. Often used for sudden, intense pain.
To express cramping in the hand or fingers from writing or repetitive motion.
つる is a casual, everyday verb for muscle cramps, especially in legs and feet. けいれんする is more formal and medical, used for spasms or convulsions in any muscle, including internal organs.
Do not translate 'have a cramp' literally as けいれんを持っている. Use the natural phrases above.
I suddenly had a sharp cramp and almost collapsed.
I can't write well due to writer's cramp.