Translation guide
The English word 'motion' covers several distinct concepts: physical movement, a formal proposal in a meeting, a hand gesture, and more. This guide helps you choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
Describing the process or state of moving, often in a general or abstract sense.
The most common and versatile word for 'motion' as movement. Can refer to physical movement, change, or activity.
機械の動きが止まった。
The machine's motion stopped.
彼の動きは素早かった。
His motions were quick.
Often used for physical exercise or motion in a scientific context (physics). Can also refer to a campaign or movement.
物体の運動を観察する。
Observe the motion of an object.
毎日運動しています。
I exercise every day.
Refers to a specific action or movement, often of a person or machine. Common in technical contexts.
ロボットの動作をプログラムする。
Program the robot's motions.
その動作を繰り返してください。
Please repeat that motion.
Making a suggestion or proposal that is formally discussed and voted on.
The standard term for a formal motion in a meeting, parliament, or court.
彼は会議で動議を提出した。
He put forward a motion at the meeting.
動議は可決された。
The motion was passed.
A more general word for 'proposal' or 'suggestion'. Can be used in less formal settings, but '動議' is preferred for parliamentary procedure.
Using a movement of the hand or body to communicate something.
A signal or sign made with a gesture. Often used for giving a cue or direction.
手で合図を送る。
Give a motion with one's hand.
彼の合図でスタートした。
We started at his motion.
Gesture, especially using the body. Often paired with 手振り (てぶり, hand gestures).
Loanword from English, commonly used for gestures, especially in casual or entertainment contexts.
Describing a feeling or desire that moves someone to act.
A phrase meaning 'the feeling of wanting to do something'. Used to express an inner motion or impulse.
彼を助けようという気持ちが湧いた。
I felt a motion to help him.
Impulse or urge. Stronger than a mere inclination.
衝動に駆られて叫んだ。
I shouted on a sudden motion (impulse).
Describing something that is currently moving or functioning.
The most natural way to say 'in motion'. Literally 'is moving'.
車はまだ動いている。
The car is still in motion.
Used for machines or systems that are in operation. More formal/technical.
エレベーターは作動中です。
The elevator is in motion.
動き (うごき) is the most general term for movement or motion. 動作 (どうさ) refers to a specific, often deliberate action or operation, commonly used for machines, robots, or human gestures. 運動 (うんどう) is used for physical exercise or motion in a scientific sense (physics).
The loanword モーション (mōshon) is sometimes used in sports or casual contexts (e.g., pitching motion), but it is not used for formal motions in meetings. Use 動議 (どうぎ) instead.
ピッチャーのモーションが大きい。
The pitcher's motion is big.
新しい企画の提案をします。
I will make a motion for a new project.
Explain with motions and gestures.
ジェスチャーゲームをしよう。
Let's play a motion game (charades).