Translation guide
The English verb "stimulate" covers a wide range of meanings, from physical and mental arousal to economic growth. Japanese uses different words depending on what is being stimulated and how. This guide organizes the most common and useful equivalents for learners.
New experiences stimulate children's development.
The government announced policies to stimulate the economy.
Means 'to make lively/active'. Good for stimulating discussion, activity, or a person's energy.
His question stimulated the discussion.
Means 'to promote/accelerate'. Often used for stimulating growth, development, or economic activity. More formal than 刺激する.
This medicine stimulates hair growth.
To make someone feel interested, excited, or mentally engaged.
Again the most common choice. Works for intellectual or emotional stimulation.
The book stimulated my curiosity.
Often used for stimulating appetite, interest, or curiosity. Casual and common in spoken Japanese.
Means 'to stir up' or 'arouse' strong emotions like curiosity, imagination, or desire. More literary.
To cause a physical reaction in a part of the body, often through touch, electricity, or chemicals.
To encourage economic growth or activity.
While 刺激する会話 is understandable, it sounds unnatural. Instead, use phrases like 興味深い会話 (interesting conversation) or 活発な議論 (lively discussion).
I always have stimulating conversations with him.
刺激する is the most general and can be used in almost any context. 活発にする emphasizes making something lively or active, often used for discussions or atmospheres. 促進する implies accelerating a process, commonly used for growth or economic activity.
Coffee stimulates the brain.
The teacher's words stimulated the students.
This medicine stimulates hair growth.
The movie trailer stimulated my interest.
The story stimulated my imagination.
このツボを押すと発汗を促す。
Pressing this pressure point stimulates sweating.
The new airport stimulated the local economy.