Translation guide
The English verb 'perspire' is a formal or medical term for sweating. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 汗をかく (ase o kaku), literally 'to emit sweat'. There are also more formal or technical terms, but learners should prioritize natural, everyday expressions.
Expressing the physical act of sweating in casual or neutral contexts.
The most common and natural way to say 'to sweat' in Japanese. Literally 'to emit sweat'. Used in everyday conversation.
暑くて汗をかいた。
It was hot and I sweated.
運動すると汗をかく。
I sweat when I exercise.
Means 'to be slightly sweaty' or 'to become damp with sweat'. Often used for light perspiration, not heavy sweating.
少し汗ばんできた。
I'm starting to perspire a little.
Using a more formal or technical term for sweating, similar to 'perspire' in English.
A formal, technical term for 'to perspire' or 'to sweat'. Used in medical contexts or product descriptions (e.g., antiperspirants). Not used in everyday speech.
この薬は発汗を促します。
This medicine promotes perspiration.
Describing heavy sweating or being drenched in sweat.
Means 'to become drenched in sweat'. Used when someone is sweating heavily.
ジョギングから帰ってきて汗だくだ。
I came back from jogging and I'm drenched in sweat.
Literally 'sweat flows'. Describes sweat running down the body.
額から汗が流れている。
Sweat is running down my forehead.
汗をかく is the everyday expression for 'to sweat'. 発汗する is a formal, technical term used in medical or scientific contexts. Using 発汗する in casual conversation would sound unnatural and overly stiff.
毎日汗をかくのは健康にいい。
Sweating every day is good for your health.
発汗作用のある飲み物。
A drink that promotes perspiration.