Are you looking to express the sensation of pain or discomfort in Japanese? Whether you’re suffering from a physical ailment or just need to convey that something is causing you discomfort, this guide will provide you with various expressions to express “something hurts” in Japanese. We’ll cover both formal and informal ways of saying it, along with some tips and examples to help you understand how to use these phrases effectively.
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Formal Ways to Say “Something Hurts” in Japanese
If you find yourself in a situation where you need to speak formally, such as in official settings or with someone of higher social status, these expressions will come in handy.
1. 痛みを感じます (Itami o kanjimasu)
When you want to express that you are feeling pain or experiencing discomfort, this phrase is the most common way to do so formally.
Example: 先日、腕に痛みを感じました。(Senjitsu, ude ni itami o kanjimashita.)
(The other day, I felt pain in my arm.)
2. 痛いと思います (Itai to omoimasu)
This expression can be used to convey that you believe something is hurting or causing you discomfort. It carries a more subjective tone compared to the previous phrase.
Example: 頭が痛いと思います。(Atama ga itai to omoimasu.)
(I think I have a headache.)
3. 苦痛を感じています (Kutsuu o kanjiteimasu)
If you want to emphasize that you are experiencing intense pain or agony, this phrase suits the purpose well.
Example: 背中に激しい痛みを感じています。(Senaka ni hageshii itami o kanjiteimasu.)
(I am experiencing intense pain in my back.)
Informal Ways to Say “Something Hurts” in Japanese
When speaking with friends, family, or in casual situations, you can use these more relaxed expressions to convey that something is causing you pain or discomfort.
1. 痛い (Itai)
This is the most common and straightforward way to say “it hurts” in Japanese. It is used in informal conversations.
Example: 足が痛い。(Ashi ga itai.)
(My leg hurts.)
2. 痛いんだ (Itai nda)
This expression is a more emphatic and casual way to say “it hurts.” It is often used among friends or close acquaintances.
Example: 胃が痛いんだ。(I ga itai nda.)
(My stomach hurts.)
Tips for Using These Phrases
To ensure you use these expressions effectively, here are some additional tips and considerations:
1. Use body part-specific vocabulary
When specifying where the pain or discomfort is, try to use the appropriate Japanese term for the body part. This will help you communicate more precisely.
Example: 歯が痛い (Ha ga itai) for “toothache”, 肩が痛い (Kata ga itai) for “shoulder pain”.
2. Add adverbs for emphasis
You can intensify your expression by adding adverbs such as “very” (とても; totemo), “extremely” (非常に; hijouni), or “incredibly” (すごく; sugoku) before the adjective “hurt” (痛い; itai).
Example: 頭がとても痛い (Atama ga totemo itai) for “I have a very bad headache”.
3. Consider your audience
Always consider the level of formality required based on the person you are speaking to and the situation you are in. Using the appropriate level of politeness is crucial in Japanese culture.
Now that you have learned various ways to express “something hurts” in Japanese, you can confidently communicate your pain or discomfort. Remember to adapt the level of politeness according to the situation, and don’t hesitate to seek medical assistance if necessary. Wishing you a swift recovery!
