Translation guide
The innate ability of an animal to find its way home over long distances. In Japanese, this is typically expressed with set phrases rather than a single word.
Describing the biological ability of animals like pigeons or salmon to return to their home or birthplace.
Metaphorically describing a person's strong ability to find their way back or a deep-seated desire to return home.
While 帰巣本能 is primarily a biological term, it can be used metaphorically for people. However, in casual conversation, it might sound a bit stiff or humorous. For everyday talk about wanting to go home, simpler phrases like 家に帰りたい (I want to go home) are more natural.
The standard biological term meaning 'homing instinct', literally 'return-to-nest instinct'. Used for birds, insects, and other animals.
伝書鳩は帰巣本能を利用して手紙を運ぶ。
Carrier pigeons deliver messages using their homing instinct.
A more technical term for 'homing ability' or 'philopatry', often used in scientific contexts.
サケの帰巣性は嗅覚に依存している。
The homing instinct of salmon relies on their sense of smell.
Refers to 'homing behavior', the actual actions an animal takes to return home.
ミツバチの帰巣行動は太陽の位置を基準にしている。
The homing behavior of honeybees is based on the position of the sun.
Also used figuratively for humans, implying an almost animal-like instinct to return home.
彼はどんなに遠くにいても、帰巣本能で家にたどり着く。
No matter how far away he is, he always finds his way home by homing instinct.
A more literal and casual way to express 'instinct to go home', not a fixed term but easily understood.
旅の終わりには、家に帰りたい本能が強くなる。
At the end of a trip, the instinct to go home grows stronger.