Translation guide
The English word "racing" refers to competitions of speed. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is レース, a loanword from English. However, depending on the context—such as car racing, horse racing, or foot races—different terms are used. This guide covers the main ways to express "racing" naturally in Japanese.
To refer to a race or racing event in general, especially modern or organized competitions.
The most common and versatile word for 'race' or 'racing'. Used for car races, boat races, bicycle races, and many other types of competitions. It is a loanword from English and is widely understood.
I'm going to watch a car race tomorrow.
A native Japanese word meaning 'race' or 'running race'. Often used in compound words like 競走馬 (racehorse) or 競走車 (racing car). It can sound slightly formal or technical.
Means 'competition' or 'sporting event'. It is broader than just racing, but can be used in contexts like 'racing sport' (競技としてのレース). Not a direct translation for 'racing' alone.
Specifically referring to racing involving cars or motor vehicles.
Specifically referring to horse racing.
The standard word for horse racing. Used for both the sport and the betting activity.
Specifically referring to bicycle racing.
The most common term for a bicycle race.
Specifically referring to boat or watercraft racing.
Specifically referring to a race on foot, such as a sprint or marathon.
To express the action of racing or competing in speed.
The most common way to say 'to race' or 'to have a race'. Uses the loanword レース with the verb する.
The English word 'racing' is sometimes transcribed as レーシング, but this is not commonly used as a standalone noun for a race. It appears mainly in compound words like レーシングカー (racing car) or レーシングゲーム (racing game). For the event itself, use レース.
レース is a loanword and feels modern and casual. 競走 is a native Japanese word and can sound more formal or traditional. In many contexts, レース is preferred, but 競走 is still used in compounds like 競走馬 (racehorse).
I love watching racing.
He won the race.
競走馬が速く走っている。
The racehorses are running fast.
Motor sports are dangerous competitions.
Directly means 'car race'. Very common and natural.
Car racing is thrilling.
A more formal term for 'automobile racing'. Used in official contexts.
The history of automobile racing is long.
Refers to motor sports in general, including car racing, motorcycle racing, etc. Often used when talking about the sport as a whole.
He is crazy about motor sports.
I went to the racetrack on the weekend.
I lost a lot of money on horse racing.
A direct loanword from English. Less common than 競馬, but may be used in some contexts like international events.
Horse racing is popular in England.
The Tour de France is a famous bicycle race.
Also means 'cycle race'. Slightly more casual or modern feel.
I will participate in a cycle race.
Refers specifically to keirin, a form of track cycling that originated in Japan and is now an Olympic sport. Also used for the gambling sport.
Becoming a keirin racer is difficult.
General term for boat racing. Also the name of a popular public gambling sport in Japan (kyōtei).
Boat races are held on the water.
The official term for the Japanese motorboat racing sport, often associated with gambling. Commonly called ボートレース in casual speech.
I watched a race at the boat racing stadium.
Specifically a yacht race or sailing race.
Yacht racing depends on the wind.
Commonly used for foot races, especially in school sports days or casual contexts.
I ran in the foot race at the sports day.
Refers to a marathon race. Often used for long-distance running events.
He won the marathon.
A direct loanword for 'running race'. Less common, but understandable.
Would you like to join the running race?
I raced go-karts with my friends.
A more formal verb meaning 'to race' or 'to run a race'. Often used in written or official contexts.
The athletes raced on the track.
Means 'to compete' or 'to vie'. Can be used for racing in a broader sense of competing for speed, but not exclusively for racing.
They are competing in speed.
He is into car racing.
Horse racing is a popular sport.