Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Desire" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "desire", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
願望
がんぼう (ganbou)
N3 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
欲求
よっきゅう (yokkyuu)
N2 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "desire" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 願望 and 欲求.
In Japanese, 願望 (がんぼう (ganbou)) is typically associated with "desire; wish; aspiration" (Syllabus Level: N3) and represents Expresses a strong, often abstract or long-term personal wish or aspiration. It is more formal than 「～たい」.
On the other hand, 欲求 (よっきゅう (yokkyuu)) maps to "desire, craving, want, urge" (Syllabus Level: N2) and represents Refers to basic human desires or needs, often psychological or biological. It implies a strong, fundamental urge or longing. A literal translation of "desire" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "願望"
彼の長年の願望は、世界中の子どもたちが幸せに暮らすことだ。
His long-cherished desire is for children around the world to live happily.
Bilingual Context for "欲求"
人間には、認められたいという欲求がある。
Humans have a desire to be recognized.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "彼の長年の ＿＿＿ は、世界中の子どもたちが幸せに暮らすことだ。" (Meaning: "His long-cherished desire is for children around the world to live happily.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "願望" fits here because it means "desire; wish; aspiration" in the context of: "His long-cherished desire is for children around the world to live happily.". "欲求" represents "desire, craving, want, urge".