Nuance & Usage
意欲 refers to a strong inner drive or motivation to do something. 意欲的 (iyokuteki) is the na-adjective form meaning 'enthusiastic/motivated.' 学習意欲 (gakushuu iyoku) means 'motivation to learn.' 意欲が高い/低い describes high or low motivation. It is commonly used in educational and business contexts when evaluating someone's attitude or drive. Unlike やる気 (yaruki — willingness), which is casual, 意欲 is more formal.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 意欲 with やる気 (yaruki). Both mean motivation, but 意欲 is more formal and used in written or professional contexts, while やる気 is casual and spoken. Don't say 意欲がない in casual conversation — やる気がない sounds more natural. In job interviews or formal settings, 意欲 is preferred.
Example Sentences (3)
彼女は仕事に対する意欲が非常に高い。
かのじょはしごとにたいするいよくがひじょうにたかい。
She has very high motivation for her work.
学生の学習意欲を高める方法を考えている。
がくせいのがくしゅういよくをたかめるほうほうをかんがえている。
I am thinking about ways to boost students' motivation to learn.
意欲的に取り組む姿勢が評価された。
いよくてきにとりくむしせいがひょうかされた。
The enthusiastic attitude toward the work was well regarded.
Quick Quiz
Quick Quiz
N24 questionsTest your knowledge of 意欲 with 4 different question types.
Want to practice this word?
Add to Fujiyama & Study with AI
Generate more example sentences, listen to native pronunciation, and review with SRS — all personalized to your JLPT level.