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.
He is a very merry person.
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 greeting 'Merry Christmas' and related festive expressions.
Describe the state of being tipsy and cheerful, often from alcohol.
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.
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.
Let's sing merrily.
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.
The most common word for a lively, bustling, and merry atmosphere. Often used for parties, streets, or gatherings.
It was a merry party.
The street is merry and bustling.
Verb meaning to be crowded and lively, often used for places full of people enjoying themselves.
The town is merry with the festival.
To be in high spirits, merry, and carried away by the festive mood. Can imply being a bit too merry or frivolous.
Everyone is dancing merrily.
The standard Japanese way to say 'Merry Christmas.' It is a direct loan from English and used exactly like the English phrase.
Merry Christmas!
A more Japanese-style phrase meaning 'Have a merry Christmas.' Less common than the loanword but natural.
Have a merry Christmas.
Means slightly drunk and in a pleasant, merry mood. Very common.
I went home feeling merry from a little drink.
Literally 'good feeling,' often used to mean tipsy and merry.
He is singing in a merry mood (from drinking).