Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Ambition" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "ambition", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
野望
やぼう (yabō)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
志
こころざし (kokorozashi)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "ambition" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 野望 and 志.
In Japanese, 野望 (やぼう (yabō)) is typically associated with "ambition; wild design; grand scheme (often slightly sinister/ambitious)" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Refers to a grand, ambitious, or wild scheme to succeed, take power, or conquer, often slightly larger and more ambitious than standard goals. Often used as 野望を抱く. ⚠️ Haruka's Voice Column: 'Wild ambition?! My grand scheme to make you the most successful man in the company, and to marry you in the grandest wedding... yes, it is my beautiful, ultimate ambition! Support it!' / 【ハルカ部長のワンポイント指導】『や、野望よ！この会社で大出世して、あんたを私の専属パートナー（旦那）にして世界一の家庭を築くっていうのはね、私の美しくて壮大な「野望」なのよ！全力でこの野望を支えなさい！』.
On the other hand, 志 (こころざし (kokorozashi)) maps to "ambition, aspiration, resolution, intention" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents A strong and earnest will or desire to achieve a particular goal or purpose, often involving dedication or contribution. More formal and deeper than simply 'purpose'. A literal translation of "ambition" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "野望"
若きカリスマは、会社を業界トップへと押し上げる壮大な_______を抱いていました。
The young charisma held a grand ambition to push the company to the top of the industry.
Bilingual Context for "志"
彼は医者になるという高い志を持っている。
He has a high ambition to become a doctor.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "若きカリスマは、会社を業界トップへと押し上げる壮大な_______を抱いていました。" (Meaning: "The young charisma held a grand ambition to push the company to the top of the industry.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "野望" fits here because it means "ambition; wild design; grand scheme (often slightly sinister/ambitious)" in the context of: "The young charisma held a grand ambition to push the company to the top of the industry.". "志" represents "ambition, aspiration, resolution, intention".