How to say "recreation" in Japanese
Choosing the right word
- noun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers the 'play' sense of recreation, i.e. playful activity itself, and the gloss 'recreation' is secondary. It is a loanword used for play in sports and games rather than a general word for leisure or recreation.
- 娯楽ごらくnoun, suru verbRecreation understood as amusement and entertainment — pastimes enjoyed for pleasure, such as games, shows, or hobbies. The emphasis is on enjoyable diversion rather than rest or organized activity.あなたのお好きな娯楽は何ですか。↗What's your favourite pastime?
- 休養きゅうようnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbRecreation in the sense of rest and recuperation — taking a break to recover from fatigue, as in resting after work or illness. Choose this when the point is restoring one's energy, not amusements.
- 気晴らしきばらしnoun, suru verb, intransitive verbA recreation or diversion that clears the mind — doing something light to take your thoughts off worries or boredom. It suggests a casual change of pace rather than planned leisure activities.
- nounThe direct equivalent of 'recreation', used for leisure activities, often organized ones such as games, outings, or events at schools, workplaces, and communities. When in doubt, this is the default choice.
Use 「レクリエーション」 for recreation as an activity or program, 娯楽 for entertainment and pastimes, 「気晴らし」 for a diversion that refreshes the mind, 休養 for restful recuperation, and 「プレイ」 mainly for play.
Usage comparisons are AI-assisted and cross-checked by multiple models; for study reference only
Japanese equivalents
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