Translation guide
Lust refers to intense sexual desire. In Japanese, it is expressed through nouns, adjectives, and verbs that range from formal to slang, with important distinctions between desire as a feeling and lust as a character trait or sinful passion.
Expressing strong sexual desire or passion in a neutral or descriptive way.
The standard, neutral term for sexual desire or libido. Used in both everyday and formal contexts.
He has a strong sex drive.
I can't control my lust.
Sexual desire or passion, often with a nuance of being aroused. Slightly more literary or formal than 性欲.
Sexual desire, often with a nuance of carnal lust. Can be used in religious or moral contexts (e.g., one of the seven deadly sins).
Referring to lust in a moral, religious, or judgmental sense, often as a vice.
Describing a look full of sexual desire.
A lustful look, literally 'eyes filled with desire'.
Referring to a person who is driven by lust or is lecherous.
Using 'lust' metaphorically for a powerful craving, e.g., lust for power.
There is no single Japanese word that covers all uses of 'lust'. The best choice depends on whether you mean sexual desire, sinful passion, a lecherous person, or a metaphorical craving. Using 性欲 for a person will sound odd; use 好色家 or スケベ instead.
性欲 is the standard, clinical term for libido. 欲情 implies arousal or passion in the moment. 肉欲 emphasizes the physical, carnal aspect and often carries a negative or sinful connotation.
He was overcome with lust.
欲情をかき立てられる。
My lust is stirred up.
色欲に溺れる。
To be consumed by lust.
Carnal desire, fleshly lust. Strongly associated with physical, often sinful, passion.
To give in to lust.
Passion, lust, sexual desire. Often used in literary or psychological contexts.
To act on pure lust.
Sexual misconduct, lewdness, lust as a sin. Strongly religious or moralistic term.
To commit the sin of lust.
He looked at her with lustful eyes.
A lecherous or dirty look. More colloquial and negative.
Don't look at me with those lustful eyes.
A lecher, a person who is fond of sexual pleasures. Neutral to slightly negative.
He is a well-known lecher.
Slang for a lecherous person or pervert. Very common in casual speech.
That old guy is such a lecher.
Similar to スケベ, meaning lecherous or a lecher. Slightly old-fashioned or dialectal.
Dirty old man.
He has a strong lust for power.
To be possessed by a lust for money.
A craving or thirst for something. More literary and intense.
A lust for knowledge.
Lust is one of the seven deadly sins.