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.
スポーツが好きです。
I like sports.
何かスポーツをしていますか？
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.
私はスポーツが好きです。
I like sports.
スポーツをするのは健康にいい。
Playing sports is good for your health.
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.
毎日、運動していますか？
Do you exercise every day?
運動会でスポーツを楽しんだ。
We enjoyed sports at the field day.
Specifically refers to physical education or sports in an educational context. Not used for general sports outside of school.
体育の授業でバスケットボールをした。
We played basketball in PE class.
Referring to traditional Japanese physical disciplines like sumo, judo, kendo, etc.
Referring to a school or community sports festival event.
Referring to sports as entertainment to watch.
Watching sports (as a spectator).
週末はスポーツ観戦を楽しむ。
I enjoy watching sports on weekends.
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.
健康のために運動している。
I exercise for my health.
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.
一番好きなスポーツは何ですか？
What's your favorite sport?
彼はスポーツが得意です。
He is good at sports.
Sumo is a traditional Japanese sport.
体育祭でリレーに出た。
I ran in the relay at the sports festival.