Translation guide
A race covering a long distance, typically in running, cycling, swimming, or skiing. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 長距離走 for running, but the specific term depends on the sport and context.
A long-distance running race, such as a marathon or cross-country event.
The standard term for long-distance running as a sport or event. Often used in athletic contexts.
彼は長距離走が得意だ。
He is good at long-distance races.
A more general term that can apply to any long-distance race, not just running. Often used in casual conversation.
来月、長距離レースに出場する。
I'm participating in a long-distance race next month.
Specifically a marathon (42.195 km). Often used loosely for any long-distance running event.
東京マラソンに出たい。
I want to run in the Tokyo Marathon.
A long-distance bicycle race, such as a road race or tour.
The direct translation for a long-distance bicycle race.
ツール・ド・フランスは有名な長距離自転車レースだ。
The Tour de France is a famous long-distance bicycle race.
Road race, commonly understood as a long-distance cycling event on paved roads.
彼はロードレースの選手だ。
He is a road race cyclist.
A long-distance swimming race, typically in open water or pool events over 800m.
Long-distance swimming as a sport or event.
長距離水泳は体力が必要だ。
Long-distance swimming requires stamina.
Specifically refers to long-distance swimming, often in the sea or open water. Common in school events.
夏に遠泳大会がある。
There is a long-distance swimming event in summer.
A long-distance cross-country skiing race.
General term for long-distance skiing races.
長距離スキーは北欧で人気がある。
Long-distance skiing is popular in Northern Europe.
Cross-country skiing, often involving long distances.
彼女はクロスカントリースキーの選手だ。
She is a cross-country skier.
Used metaphorically for any prolonged effort or competition.
Literally 'long stretch', used figuratively for a long haul or endurance contest, not necessarily a physical race.
このプロジェクトは長丁場だ。
This project is a long-distance race.
Directly translating 'long-distance race' as 長い距離のレース is unnatural. Use the specific compound nouns above.