How to say "stirring" in Japanese

Choosing the right word
  • 身動きみうごきCommon
    noun, suru verb, intransitive verbCovers the literal, physical sense of stirring: a person's bodily movement or moving about. Typical when saying whether someone can stir at all, as in a cramped space or while held down.
    その子供こどもは恐怖きょうふで身動みうごきができなかった。↗
    The child was paralyzed with fear.
  • 奮起ふんきCommon
    noun, suru verb, intransitive verbThe reflexive sense: stirring as rousing oneself to action or renewed effort. Used of people taking heart and resolving to try again, as a team or workforce might after a setback.
  • 豪快ごうかいCommon
    na-adjective, nounA marginal match: it really means hearty, tremendous, or magnificent, describing bold, flamboyant vigor. It only approaches 'stirring' when a magnificent, rousing display is meant, and is seldom the word you want.
  • 勇ましいいさましいJLPT N2approx.Common
    i-adjectiveThe adjectival sense: stirring as in rousing or vigorous, said of things that stir the spirits, such as a brave, rousing speech or tune. Carries a nuance of courage and boldness.

Use 「身動き」 for literal bodily movement, 奮起 for rousing oneself to action, and 「勇ましい」 for things that rouse the spirits; 豪快 really means hearty or magnificent and only marginally matches 'stirring'.

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

Japanese equivalents
See also

JLPT vocabulary levels are community estimates, not official (no official lists have been published since the 2010 revision).

Say it right, write it right

Core lookup works fully offline, with cloud pronunciation and one-tap save & review. Free, no sign-up.

Free downloadWindowsFree downloadmacOSDownload on the App StoreGet it on Google Play
MobileiOS / Android

Android

QR code for the Google Play pageGet it on Google Play

Scan it with your Android phone to install, or search for “Tomoshi” on Google Play.

iOS

QR code for the App Store pageDownload on the App Store

Scan it with your iPhone camera to install, or search for “Tomoshi” in the App Store.

Install the browser extensionLook words up on any web page · Chrome / Edge / Safari

Screenshot of a Tomoshi lookup resultScreenshot of Tomoshi lookup results on a phone

Windows macOS Chrome / Edge / Safari extension iOS / Android