Translation guide
The feeling that your life or actions have meaning, direction, and value. In Japanese, this is often expressed through nouns describing life's worth, motivation, or guiding principles, rather than a single fixed phrase.
Expressing that one's life feels meaningful and guided by a clear aim
A widely used term meaning 'reason for living' or 'something that makes life worth living'. It captures the sense of purpose derived from passions, relationships, or work.
He finds a sense of purpose in his work.
My hobby gives me a sense of purpose.
Literally 'life's purpose'. A more direct and slightly formal way to talk about one's overarching goal in life.
I want to find a sense of purpose in life.
A sense of mission or calling, often used when someone feels driven by a duty or higher purpose, such as in a profession or social cause.
She became a doctor with a strong sense of purpose.
The sense of fulfillment or worthwhileness from doing something. Often used for work or tasks that feel rewarding.
This job gives me a sense of purpose.
Describing having a focused goal or intention in what one is doing
Awareness of one's purpose or goal. Used when someone acts with clear intention rather than aimlessly.
He studies with a sense of purpose.
Literally 'to have a goal'. A simple, natural way to say one has direction or purpose in a specific context.
Having a sense of purpose makes each day fulfilling.
Expressing the opposite of feeling aimless or adrift
生きがい is a broader, deeper concept about what makes your entire life worth living. やりがい is more about the satisfaction from a specific activity or job. You can have やりがい at work, but your 生きがい might be your family.
My work is very rewarding, but my sense of purpose comes from my family.
Avoid directly translating 'sense of purpose' as 目的の感覚 (mokuteki no kankaku). It sounds unnatural. Use the expressions above instead.
I got a sense of purpose from volunteering.