Translation guide
In Japanese, expressing 'sexual passion' depends heavily on context, ranging from clinical terms to poetic expressions and slang. The most common and natural ways to convey this concept are through words like 性欲 (sexual desire) or 情欲 (lust/carnal desire), but the appropriate choice varies with formality and nuance.
To refer to sexual passion as a strong physical desire or drive, in neutral or psychological contexts.
The standard, neutral term for sexual desire or libido. Used in everyday conversation, psychology, and medicine.
He has a strong sexual desire.
Sexual desire may decline with age.
Refers to carnal desire or lust, often with a slightly more emotional or passionate nuance than 性欲. Can be used in literary or dramatic contexts.
He was driven by lust.
Literally 'fleshly desire', emphasizing the physical, carnal aspect. Often used in religious or philosophical discussions.
To indulge in carnal desires.
To express sexual passion as an intense, often romantic, emotion or fervor.
Means 'passion' in a broad sense, including romantic and sexual passion. It implies strong emotion and enthusiasm.
She is a passionate lover.
Specifically refers to sexual passion or lust, often with a negative or carnal connotation. Less common in modern speech.
To describe the state of being sexually aroused or excited.
General term for excitement, but in sexual contexts it means arousal. Often used with modifiers like 性的 (sexual).
To become sexually aroused.
A colloquial onomatopoeic expression for feeling suddenly horny or aroused. Very casual.
I got turned on looking at his photo.
To convey sexual passion with an emphasis on eroticism or sensual allure.
Refers to sex appeal, erotic charm, or sensuality. It can describe a person's allure or a situation's erotic atmosphere.
She has sex appeal.
Literally 'gloss' or 'luster', but often used to describe a woman's sensual beauty or erotic charm. More poetic.
性欲 is the most common and neutral term for sexual desire. 情欲 adds an emotional or passionate layer, often used in literature. 肉欲 emphasizes the physical, carnal aspect and can carry a negative or indulgent connotation.
The English word 'passion' covers many meanings. In sexual contexts, 情熱 is appropriate for romantic passion, but for raw sexual desire, 性欲 or 情欲 are better. Using 情熱 in purely physical contexts may sound overly romantic or misplaced.
The two burned with passion.
色情に狂う。
To go mad with lust.
The movie is filled with eroticism.
Her sensual gesture made my heart skip a beat.