Translation guide
The animal 'lion' is straightforward in Japanese. The most common word is ライオン (raion), a loanword from English. The native Japanese word 獅子 (shishi) is also used, but is more literary or traditional. For learners, ライオン is the default choice in almost all everyday contexts.
ライオン
lion (animal)
Referring to the large wild cat, in general or specific contexts.
The standard, everyday word for 'lion'. Used in conversation, news, children's books, zoos, etc. This is the safest choice for learners.
動物園でライオンを見た。
I saw a lion at the zoo.
ライオンは百獣の王と呼ばれる。
The lion is called the king of beasts.
The native Japanese word for 'lion'. It sounds more formal, literary, or traditional. Often used in set phrases, idioms, or artistic contexts. Not typically used in casual conversation about real lions.
獅子は勇気の象徴とされる。
The lion is considered a symbol of courage.
獅子舞はお正月の伝統的な踊りです。
The lion dance is a traditional New Year's dance.
Describing someone as lion-like in courage or strength.
Use ライオン in similes to describe a brave or strong person. The pattern is '[person] は [quality] のようなライオンだ'. 獅子 can also be used for a more literary feel.
彼は戦場でライオンのように勇敢だった。
He was as brave as a lion on the battlefield.
A four-character idiom meaning 'with the fierce energy of a lion'. Describes someone acting with tremendous vigor or ferocity. Literary and somewhat rare.
彼は獅子奮迅の活躍でチームを勝利に導いた。
He led the team to victory with lion-like ferocity.
Referring to the astrological sign Leo.
The standard term for the zodiac sign Leo. Note that it uses 獅子 (shishi) + 座 (za, 'constellation/sign'), not ライオン.
私の星座は獅子座です。
My zodiac sign is Leo.
ライオン is the everyday word for the animal. 獅子 is used in traditional contexts, idioms, and the zodiac sign. Using 獅子 for a real lion in casual speech can sound overly formal or poetic.
サバンナでライオンを見た。
I saw a lion on the savanna.
獅子舞は中国発祥の伝統芸能です。
The lion dance is a traditional performing art originating from China.