Japanese · Body & Health
痛み
itami
Pain / Ache
Intermediatenoun
Definition
Physical or emotional discomfort. The adjective form 痛い (itai) means "painful" and is one of the first words learners pick up.
Example
背中に痛みがあります。
I have pain in my back.
Etymology
The word '痛み' (itami) comes from the verb '痛む' (itamu), meaning 'to hurt' or 'to ache.' It has been used in the Japanese language since at least the Heian period (794-1185), signifying a physical sensation of discomfort.
How & Where It’s Used
'痛み' is commonly used in both spoken and written contexts, across various registers including medical discussions and everyday conversations. It is not regionally specific but is understood throughout Japan regardless of formality.