Translation guide
The English word 'stimulus' covers a wide range of meanings, from sensory input to economic measures. This guide focuses on the most common and useful ways to express these concepts in natural Japanese, organized by intended meaning.
Something that causes a physical reaction, especially in a scientific or medical context.
The most general and common word for 'stimulus'. It can refer to anything that provokes a response, from physical sensations to mental or emotional triggers.
光は視覚への刺激です。
Light is a stimulus to the sense of sight.
この薬は神経の刺激を抑えます。
This medicine suppresses nerve stimuli.
Specifically refers to a substance or object that acts as a stimulus, often used for irritants or stimulants.
目に刺激物が入った。
A foreign object (stimulus) got into my eye.
Government measures to boost economic activity.
The standard term for economic stimulus package or measures.
政府は景気刺激策を発表した。
The government announced an economic stimulus package.
A more direct translation, often used in news or formal contexts.
経済刺激のために金利が引き下げられた。
Interest rates were lowered for economic stimulus.
Something that arouses interest, thought, or feeling.
Same word as for physical stimulus, but used metaphorically. Very common.
新しい環境は良い刺激になる。
A new environment provides good mental stimulation.
彼の言葉が私に刺激を与えた。
His words gave me a stimulus (to act).
Specifically intellectual stimulation.
この本は知的刺激に満ちている。
This book is full of intellectual stimulus.
An event or thing that causes a particular reaction or change.
Often used for a personal trigger or opportunity that leads to action. More casual than 'stimulus' but very natural.
その映画が彼が日本語を勉強するきっかけになった。
That movie was the stimulus for him to start studying Japanese.
Literally 'trigger' (of a gun). Used for a decisive stimulus that sets off a chain of events, often negative.
刺激 (shigeki) is a direct equivalent and can be used in formal and technical contexts. きっかけ (kikkake) is more about a personal trigger or chance that leads to a new action or habit. Use きっかけ when talking about what made you start something.
留学が私の人生の転機のきっかけになった。
Studying abroad was the stimulus (turning point) for my life.
その事件が戦争の引き金となった。
That incident was the stimulus (trigger) for the war.