Translation guide
The English word 'health' covers physical and mental well-being, the state of a system, and expressions like 'to your health.' This guide helps learners express these ideas naturally in Japanese.
Referring to a person's general state of health, fitness, or absence of illness.
The most common and general word for health, covering both physical and mental aspects. Used in everyday conversation and formal contexts.
I walk every day for my health.
I'm in good health, thank you.
Refers to physical condition, often used when asking how someone feels or describing temporary states.
I'm not feeling well, so I'll take the day off.
How are you feeling?
Means energetic, lively, or in good spirits. Often used in greetings or to describe vitality rather than medical health.
Referring to health in a broader sense, such as public health, health care, or health-related issues.
Said when raising a glass to wish someone good health.
The standard Japanese toast, meaning 'cheers' or 'bottoms up.' It literally means 'dry glass' and is used in all drinking situations.
Cheers!
A more literal translation meaning 'to celebrate health,' used in formal speeches or toasts. Not common in casual settings.
Metaphorical use referring to the condition or functioning of something non-living, like an economy or machine.
健康 (kenkou) refers to medical or physical health, while 元気 (genki) refers to energy, liveliness, or mood. You can be 健康 but not 元気 if you're tired, or 元気 but not 健康 if you have a hidden illness. In greetings, お元気ですか is standard; 健康ですか sounds too clinical.
He's healthy, but he lacks energy today.
The common term for 'health food' is 健康食品 (kenkou shokuhin), but in casual contexts, people often say 体にいい食べ物 (karada ni ii tabemono, 'food good for the body'). Avoid literal translations like 健康食べ物.
This is healthy food.
Health is the most important thing.
Smoking is bad for your health.
I'm worried about my health.
I had a health checkup.
You can consult at the public health center.
To everyone's health, cheers!
経済の状態が悪化している。
The health of the economy is deteriorating.