Translation guide
The cross-legged seated posture used in meditation and yoga. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to as 結跏趺坐 (kekkafuza), but the full lotus is distinguished from the half lotus. This guide covers the terms for the full lotus, half lotus, and related seated positions.
The classic meditation posture with each foot placed on the opposite thigh.
The standard Buddhist term for the full lotus position. Used in formal, religious, and yoga contexts.
He sat in the full lotus position and meditated.
Literally 'lotus seat', a less common but poetic term for the lotus position. Sometimes used in yoga contexts.
Sitting in the lotus position is difficult for beginners.
A modified cross-legged posture where only one foot is placed on the opposite thigh.
The standard term for the half lotus position. Often recommended for beginners or those with less flexibility.
The half lotus position is easier than the full lotus.
Any comfortable cross-legged seated posture, often used in casual settings.
Refers to sitting cross-legged in a relaxed manner, not necessarily with feet on thighs. This is the most common term for sitting on the floor with legs crossed.
The children sat cross-legged on the floor.
Verb phrase meaning 'to sit cross-legged'. Often used in everyday conversation.
結跏趺坐 (kekkafuza) specifically refers to the formal full lotus posture used in meditation, while あぐら (agura) is a general term for sitting cross-legged in a relaxed manner. If you are describing a yoga or meditation context, use 結跏趺坐. For everyday sitting on the floor, あぐら is more natural.
In yoga class, we practice the lotus position.
We sat cross-legged at the picnic and ate our lunch.
In yoga or meditation instructions, you may hear 'lotus position' translated as 結跏趺坐, but teachers often simply say あぐらで座ってください (Please sit cross-legged) for a more accessible instruction. If you want to specify the full lotus, you can say 足を組んで座ってください (Please sit with your legs crossed) and then demonstrate.
Please sit cross-legged and make yourself comfortable.