Translation guide
The English word 'merry' describes a cheerful, lively, and festive mood. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent that covers all uses. The best choice depends on the context: describing a person's mood, a lively atmosphere, or the set phrase 'Merry Christmas.'
Describe a person who is habitually cheerful, lighthearted, and full of fun.
A common adjective/noun meaning cheerful, lively, and merry. Often used for a person's disposition or the mood of a gathering.
彼はとても陽気な人だ。
He is a very merry person.
陽気に歌いましょう。
Let's sing merrily.
Describes a bright, cheerful, and sunny disposition. Slightly more gentle and warm than 陽気.
Means cheerful and lively, often with a sense of being active and energetic. More formal or literary.
Describe a party, gathering, or place that is full of lively fun and noise.
The most common word for a lively, bustling, and merry atmosphere. Often used for parties, streets, or gatherings.
にぎやかなパーティーだった。
It was a merry party.
通りはにぎやかだ。
The street is merry and bustling.
Verb meaning to be crowded and lively, often used for places full of people enjoying themselves.
To be in high spirits, merry, and carried away by the festive mood. Can imply being a bit too merry or frivolous.
The greeting 'Merry Christmas' and related festive expressions.
The standard Japanese way to say 'Merry Christmas.' It is a direct loan from English and used exactly like the English phrase.
メリークリスマス！
Merry Christmas!
A more Japanese-style phrase meaning 'Have a merry Christmas.' Less common than the loanword but natural.
楽しいクリスマスをお過ごしください。
Have a merry Christmas.
Describe the state of being tipsy and cheerful, often from alcohol.
Means slightly drunk and in a pleasant, merry mood. Very common.
ほろ酔い気分で帰宅した。
I went home feeling merry from a little drink.
Literally 'good feeling,' often used to mean tipsy and merry.
彼はいい気分で歌っている。
He is singing in a merry mood (from drinking).
English uses 'merry' in many fixed phrases (merry-go-round, make merry, etc.) that do not translate directly. Always consider the intended meaning rather than the word itself.
メリーゴーラウンド
merry-go-round
陽気 is the most common and versatile for 'merry.' 朗らか implies a warm, bright cheerfulness. 快活 is more formal and emphasizes energetic liveliness.
朗らかな笑い声が聞こえる。
I can hear merry laughter.
快活な性格の持ち主だ。
He has a merry and energetic personality.
祭りで町が賑わっている。
The town is merry with the festival.
みんな浮かれて踊っている。
Everyone is dancing merrily.