How to say "massage" in Japanese

• マッサージJLPT N1approx.Common
  noun, suru verb, transitive verbThe default word for massage, typically as a noun or a massage session. Use this for getting or giving a massage in ordinary contexts, such as at a spa or salon.
• あん摩あんまCommon
  noun, suru verb, transitive verbRefers specifically to anma, a traditional form of Japanese massage. Use this when the traditional Japanese technique is meant, rather than massage in general.
• さするCommon
  godan verb, transitive verbA verb covering rubbing, patting, or stroking, with massage as one of its senses. It suggests a light rubbing motion, such as soothing a sore shoulder or a child's back.
  胸むねをさすってあげましょうか。↗

  Would you like me to massage your chest?
• もむJLPT N2approx.Common
  godan verb, transitive verbA verb meaning to massage, literally to knead. Use it for working into the muscles with the hands, such as kneading stiff shoulders or a sore back.

Use 「マッサージ」 for massage in general, 「あん摩」 for the traditional Japanese style, and the verbs 「さする」 or 「もむ」 for the act of rubbing, stroking, or kneading a part of the body.

Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only

• マッサージmassage
• あん摩あんまmassage (esp. anma, a traditional form of Japanese massage)
• さするto rub
• 揉みほぐすもみほぐすto massage
• もみもみmassage
• 揉み療治もみりょうじ(therapeutic) massage
• もむto massage
• 導引どういんmassage
• 揉みしだくもみしだくto rub thoroughly