Translation guide
The English word "instinct" refers to an innate, unlearned behavior or impulse. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 本能 (honnō), but depending on context, other words like 直感 (chokkan) for "gut feeling" or 勘 (kan) for "intuition" may be more natural. This guide helps you choose the right expression.
Referring to an inborn, automatic behavior shared by a species, such as survival or maternal instinct.
The standard term for biological instinct. Used in both scientific and everyday contexts.
Animals act on instinct.
Maternal instinct is seen in many mammals.
Specifically "survival instinct." Used when emphasizing the drive to stay alive.
His survival instinct kept him away from danger.
A sudden, unexplainable feeling that something is true or right, without conscious reasoning.
Closest to "gut feeling" or "intuition." Often used when you just know something without logic.
I knew by instinct that it was right.
More casual and everyday than 直感. Often used in phrases like 勘がいい (have good instincts).
Literally "sixth sense." Used for a mysterious, almost supernatural instinct.
An innate ability to do something well without training, like an instinct for business or language.
An automatic, unthinking reaction to a situation, often physical.
本能 (honnō) is biological, hard-wired instinct (e.g., survival). 直感 (chokkan) is a sudden intuitive judgment, often intellectual. 勘 (kan) is a more everyday, vague feeling or hunch. Use 本能 for scientific/biological contexts, 直感 for flashes of insight, and 勘 for general gut feelings.
English "instinct" often means "gut feeling," but 本能 is too strong and biological for that. Saying 本能でわかった sounds odd; use 直感 or 勘 instead.
She trusted her instinct and invested.
He has sharp instincts.
I had a bad feeling about it, just on instinct.
I sensed danger by instinct (sixth sense).
My hand shot out instinctively.