How to Say ‘Motivation’ in Japanese
やる気
yaruki
[yah-roo-kee]
💬 Usage Tip: Noun meaning drive/enthusiasm. Often paired with [がある] (to have): [やる気がある].
🇯🇵 In Japan: In Japan, “motivation” is valued, but consistency and reliability (ちゃんと続ける) are often valued even more.
Phrase Breakdown
やる気
yaruki
[yah-roo-kee]
motivation; willingness; drive
A key word in job interviews for expressing enthusiasm: やる気があります (I’m motivated). Often paired with verbs like 見せる (show) / 伝える (communicate).
志望動機でやる気を具体的に説明します。
In my motivation for applying, I will explain my drive in concrete terms.
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