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日本語
欲望 — meaning in English: desire
yokubō · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.
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desire
需要
juyō
調査
chōsa
アダルト
adaruto
脅威
kyōi
欲望
yokubō
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neutral
common
Usage
Native speakers often use the word 欲望 (yokubō) in discussions about personal aspirations, such as career ambitions or romantic interests. For instance, you might hear it in a conversation about someone's desire to travel or their longing for a particular life experience.
Synonyms & nuances
欲望 (yokubō) specifically emphasizes a deep-seated desire, often with a sense of urgency, while 望み (nozomi) refers to a more general hope or wish. You might choose 欲望 when discussing intense cravings or ambitions, distinguishing it from the softer connotation of 望み.
Culture
The kanji for 欲望 combines 欲 (yoku), meaning 'desire' or 'wish,' with 望 (bō), which means 'hope' or 'aspiration.' This word reflects a nuanced understanding of human emotions in Japanese culture, where desires are often seen as both powerful motivators and potential sources of conflict. Interestingly, in literature and philosophy, 欲望 is frequently explored as a double-edged sword, driving characters toward both success and ruin.
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