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.
Light is a stimulus to the sense of sight.
This medicine suppresses nerve stimuli.
Specifically refers to a substance or object that acts as a stimulus, often used for irritants or stimulants.
A foreign object (stimulus) got into my eye.
Government measures to boost economic activity.
Something that arouses interest, thought, or feeling.
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.
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.
Studying abroad was the stimulus (turning point) for my life.
Interest rates were lowered for economic stimulus.
その事件が戦争の引き金となった。
That incident was the stimulus (trigger) for the war.