Translation guide
The English adverb 'vigorously' describes doing something with energy, force, or enthusiasm. In Japanese, there is no single direct equivalent; the best choice depends on whether you mean physical intensity, energetic effort, lively action, or forceful assertion.
Describing an action done with strong physical movement, power, or intensity.
Literally 'with momentum/force'. Used for actions done swiftly and powerfully, like running, throwing, or flowing water.
彼は勢いよく走り出した。
He started running vigorously.
水が勢いよく流れている。
The water is flowing vigorously.
Literally 'powerfully/strongly'. Emphasizes strength and force, often used for physical actions like gripping, pushing, or striking.
彼は力強く握手した。
He shook hands vigorously.
Means 'violently/intensely'. Used for vigorous but possibly rough or extreme actions, like shaking, fighting, or weather.
Can imply violence or severity; not suitable for all contexts.
犬が激しく尻尾を振った。
The dog wagged its tail vigorously.
Describing doing something with great energy, diligence, or zest.
Means 'energetically/vigorously' in the sense of putting a lot of energy into an activity, often over a period of time.
彼女は精力的に仕事に取り組んだ。
She tackled her work vigorously.
Literally 'in a lively/spirited manner'. Common for cheerful, energetic actions, especially by children or in casual contexts.
子供たちは元気よく遊んでいる。
The children are playing vigorously.
Means 'actively/lively'. Used for vigorous activity, discussion, or participation.
会議では活発に意見が交わされた。
Opinions were exchanged vigorously at the meeting.
Describing quick, animated actions, often with a sense of liveliness.
Means 'actively/frequently/vigorously'. Used for actions that are done with enthusiasm and in abundance, like applauding, discussing, or blooming.
観客は盛んに拍手した。
The audience applauded vigorously.
Describes a lively, vivid, energetic manner, often used for people's expressions or movements.
彼女は活き活きと踊った。
She danced vigorously.
Describing speaking, denying, or asserting something with strong emphasis.
Literally 'strongly'. Used for vigorously denying, asserting, or insisting.
彼は疑惑を強く否定した。
He vigorously denied the allegations.
Means 'firmly/resolutely'. Used for taking a vigorous, unwavering stance.
政府は断固として行動した。
The government acted vigorously.
These all can translate 'vigorously' for physical actions, but have different nuances. 勢いよく focuses on momentum and speed, 力強く on muscular strength, and 激しく on intensity that may border on violence. Choose based on the nature of the action.
There is no single Japanese adverb that covers all uses of 'vigorously'. Using a dictionary form like 旺盛に (おうせいに) may sound unnatural in many contexts. Always consider the specific meaning you want to convey.