Translation guide
The thing someone wants most deeply; a cherished wish or longing. In Japanese, this is often expressed through nouns like 念願 or 悲願, or through set phrases describing deep wishes.
Expressing a deep, long-held personal desire or goal, often finally realized.
A long-cherished desire or wish, often used when it is finally fulfilled. Commonly appears in phrases like 念願が叶う (one's wish comes true) or 念願の〜 (the long-awaited ~).
I finally got the home of my dreams.
My long-cherished wish came true and I became a doctor.
A fervent wish or earnest desire, often with a nuance of something deeply hoped for over a long time, sometimes against odds. Slightly more emotional than 念願.
Winning the championship was the fervent wish of the entire team.
Literally 'what one wishes from the heart.' A straightforward, natural way to express a heartfelt desire.
Her heart's desire is to live peacefully with her family.
An earnest, heartfelt wish. Slightly literary or formal, often used in speeches or writing.
World peace is our earnest desire.
Describing the ultimate object of desire, often in a romantic or dramatic context.
Conveying a desire that comes from the core of one's being, often unspoken.
A wish from the bottom of one's heart. Emphasizes sincerity and depth of feeling.
That is my heart's desire.
念願 is the most common and neutral term for a long-held wish. 悲願 carries a stronger emotional weight, often implying a wish held despite hardship or adversity. Use 悲願 for dramatic or collective aspirations (e.g., a team's championship dream), and 念願 for personal goals.
The English phrase 'heart's desire' is poetic. Direct translations like 心の欲望 (こころのよくぼう) sound unnatural or overly literal. Stick to established phrases like 念願 or 心から望むこと.
It was her heart's desire to travel the world.
His heart's desire was simply to be with her.
His heart's desire is for his family to be healthy.