Translation guide
The English word 'sports' refers to physical games and activities. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is the loanword スポーツ, but there are also native terms like 運動 and specific words for traditional sports.
I like sports.
Do you play any sports?
Referring to sports in general, as a category of physical games or exercise.
The most common and direct translation. Used for modern, organized sports.
I like sports.
Refers to physical exercise or athletic activity, often with a focus on health or movement rather than competition. Can be used for sports as a form of exercise.
Specifically refers to physical education or sports in an educational context. Not used for general sports outside of school.
Referring to traditional Japanese physical disciplines like sumo, judo, kendo, etc.
Martial arts; the traditional Japanese sports with a spiritual and disciplinary component.
Referring to a school or community sports festival event.
Referring to sports as entertainment to watch.
Watching sports (as a spectator).
スポーツ usually implies organized, competitive activities with rules (e.g., soccer, tennis). 運動 is broader and includes any physical exercise, like jogging or stretching, and is often used for health or fitness contexts.
I exercise for my health.
What's your favorite sport?
Playing sports is good for your health.
毎日、運動していますか？
Do you exercise every day?
We enjoyed sports at the field day.
体育の授業でバスケットボールをした。
We played basketball in PE class.
He is a master of martial arts.
Refers to a match or contest, often used in names of traditional sports like 相撲競技 (sumo wrestling).
Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport.
Sports day or field day, typically held at schools.
The sports day is tomorrow.
Another term for sports festival, often used in junior high and high schools.
I ran in the relay at the sports festival.
I enjoy watching sports on weekends.
彼はスポーツ選手だ。
He is an athlete (sports player).
The English compound 'sports car' is スポーツカー in Japanese, not just スポーツ. Similarly, 'sports drink' is スポーツドリンク.
He is good at sports.