Translation guide
The English word 'travelling' can refer to the general activity of going on trips, the act of moving from place to place, or the state of being on a journey. In Japanese, different words and phrases are used depending on the nuance.
I love travelling.
Expressing the activity of travelling for leisure, business, or personal reasons.
The most common and general word for 'travel' or 'trip'. It implies going somewhere for a purpose, often for pleasure.
I plan to travel in Japan next month.
A slightly more literary or poetic way to say 'to travel' or 'to go on a journey'. Often implies a longer or more meaningful trip.
Noun meaning 'journey' or 'travel'. Often used in compound words or set phrases.
Describing the state of being a traveller or the act of moving around continuously.
Referring to the physical act of going from one location to another, often as part of a job or daily routine.
General word for 'movement' or 'travel' from one place to another. Used for commuting, business trips, or any change of location.
Emphasizing the aspect of visiting places for sightseeing or leisure.
旅行 (ryokou) is the standard word for 'travel' or 'trip', often implying a planned journey with a clear purpose. 旅 (tabi) has a more poetic or adventurous nuance, suggesting a journey with personal meaning or discovery. 旅 is common in literature and song lyrics.
In English, 'travelling' can be used as a gerund (e.g., 'Travelling is fun'). In Japanese, it's more natural to use the noun form 旅行 or the verb phrase 旅行する rather than trying to create a gerund equivalent.
I love travelling.
He is travelling around the world.
旅の思い出を写真に残す。
I capture memories of my travels in photos.
She quit her job and is continuing to travel.
Means 'wandering' or 'roaming'. Implies travelling without a fixed destination, often for an extended period.
He is wandering around Asia.
I travel a lot for work.
I read books while travelling.
Specifically means 'business trip'. Use this when the travelling is work-related.
I'm travelling to Osaka on business next week.
Means 'sightseeing' or 'tourism'. Often used in the phrase 観光旅行 (sightseeing trip).
I enjoyed sightseeing in Kyoto.
I want to go on a sightseeing trip.