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B1 noun #8,000 most common 14 min read

猛獣

moujuu Top 8,000

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 猛獣 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 猛獣 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of 猛獣 (mōjū) as a special word for 'scary, big animals' like lions or tigers. You probably already know the word 'dōbutsu' for animal. 猛獣 is just a more specific type of animal. You will see this word if you go to a Japanese zoo. Look for the sign that says 'Mōjū-kan'—that is where the lions live! You don't need to use this word in basic sentences yet, but it is good to recognize it when you see pictures of tigers or bears. Just remember: 猛 (mō) means 'fierce' and 獣 (jū) means 'beast.' So, it is a 'fierce beast.' If you see a big, scary animal in a book, you can point and say 'Mōjū!' and Japanese people will understand you are talking about a dangerous predator.

For A2 learners, 猛獣 (mōjū) is a useful noun to describe animals that are dangerous. You can use it in simple sentences like 'Raion wa mōjū desu' (The lion is a fierce beast). It is important to know that this word is different from 'yasei dōbutsu' (wild animal). A deer is a wild animal, but it is not usually called a 猛獣 because it isn't 'fierce' or a predator. You might hear this word in simple news stories or children's stories about the jungle. When you go to a safari park in Japan, you will see many signs with this word. It's also used in the phrase 'mōjū-tsukai,' which means 'beast tamer' (like in a circus). Try to remember the two kanji: the first one looks a bit like a dog (the left part) and means 'fierce.'

At the B1 level, you should be able to use 猛獣 (mōjū) in more complex contexts, such as describing a nature documentary or a news report about public safety. You should understand that 猛獣 specifically refers to large carnivorous mammals that pose a threat to humans. For example, if a bear is spotted in a village, the news will call it a 猛獣 to warn people. You can also start using it metaphorically. If a person is very aggressive or has a lot of energy that is hard to control, you can say they are 'like a 猛獣' (mōjū no yō na hito). This level of usage shows you understand the nuance of the word beyond just 'big animal.' You should also be familiar with common compounds like 'mōjū-gari' (big game hunting).

At the B2 level, you should have a firm grasp of the nuances between 猛獣 (mōjū) and its synonyms like 'yajū' (wild beast) or 'nikushokujū' (carnivore). You should recognize that 猛獣 is the preferred term in news, zoology, and general descriptions of dangerous predators. You should be comfortable using it in passive sentences, such as 'mōjū ni osowareru' (to be attacked by a fierce beast). Furthermore, you can use it in more sophisticated metaphors. For instance, describing a fierce business competitor or a powerful political figure as a 猛獣 indicates a high level of Japanese proficiency. You should also be aware of the cultural context, such as the 'Mōjū-kan' in famous Japanese zoos like Ueno Zoo, and how the word evokes a specific kind of respect and fear in Japanese culture.

For C1 learners, 猛獣 (mōjū) is a word that you can use to add color and precision to your speech and writing. You should understand its historical and literary connotations. In literature, using 猛獣 instead of a specific animal name can create a sense of primal danger or symbolic threat. You should also be able to discuss the ethical implications of 猛獣 management, such as the debate over culling bears in rural Japan or the conditions of 猛獣 in captivity. At this level, you should also be familiar with more obscure compounds and idiomatic uses. For example, the term 'mōjū-tsukai' can be used in a corporate setting to describe a manager who is uniquely capable of handling 'difficult' but talented employees. Your usage should reflect an understanding of both the literal zoological meaning and the deep-seated metaphorical power of the word.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of 猛獣 (mōjū). you can analyze its use in classical literature versus modern media, and you understand the subtle sociolinguistic reasons why a speaker might choose this word over 'yajū' or 'kyōbō-na dōbutsu.' You can use the word in philosophical discussions about the nature of humanity and the 'beast within,' or in complex legal/environmental policy discussions regarding the protection of apex predators. You are also aware of how the word has been used in wartime propaganda or historical narratives to describe enemies. Your ability to use 猛獣 with perfect tone and register, whether in a high-level academic paper or a witty casual conversation, demonstrates a native-like command of the Japanese language and its deep cultural associations with the wild.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

猛獣 in 30 Seconds

猛獣 (mōjū) means a fierce beast or large predator, typically referring to animals like lions, tigers, and bears.
The word combines 'fierce' (猛) and 'beast' (獣), emphasizing the animal's dangerous and predatory nature.
It is used literally in zoos and news reports, and metaphorically to describe aggressive or powerful people.
Unlike 'wild animal' (yasei dōbutsu), 猛獣 specifically implies a high level of physical threat and carnivorous intent.

The Japanese term 猛獣 (もうじゅう - mōjū) is a powerful noun that specifically refers to a 'beast of prey' or a 'fierce wild animal.' To understand its weight, one must look at the individual kanji characters that comprise it. The first character, 猛 (mō), signifies fierceness, violence, or extreme intensity. It is often used to describe things that are overwhelming or savage. The second character, 獣 (jū), translates to 'beast' or 'animal,' specifically those of the four-legged variety. When combined, they create a category of animals that are not just wild, but dangerous, predatory, and physically imposing. In common Japanese parlance, this word is most frequently associated with large carnivores such as lions, tigers, bears, and leopards. It is not a word you would use for a squirrel or a deer, even though they are wild; the element of 'danger' and 'predatory nature' is essential to the definition of 猛獣.

Zoological Classification: In a literal sense, 猛獣 refers to large carnivorous mammals. Zoos in Japan often have a 'Mōjū-kan' (猛獣館) or 'Beast of Prey House' where visitors can see the most dangerous predators safely behind thick glass or bars.
Metaphorical Application: Beyond the animal kingdom, the term is frequently used to describe people who possess an untamable, aggressive, or extremely energetic personality. An athlete who plays with savage intensity or a boss who is terrifyingly strict might be referred to as a 猛獣 in a descriptive, often slightly hyperbolic way.
Cultural Nuance: The word evokes a sense of primal fear and respect. In Japanese folklore and modern media, the 猛獣 is often a symbol of nature's raw power, standing in contrast to the order of human civilization.

サファリパークでは、車の中から間近に猛獣を観察することができます。
(In the safari park, you can observe fierce beasts up close from inside your car.)

The usage of 猛獣 is prevalent in news reporting, particularly when an animal escapes from a zoo or when there are reports of bear sightings in residential areas. In these contexts, the word serves as a warning, emphasizing the potential for lethal harm. It is also a staple in the world of entertainment, specifically in 'Mōjū-tsukai' (猛獣使い), which means 'beast tamer' or 'lion tamer' in a circus context. This phrase is also used idiomatically to describe someone who is exceptionally good at managing difficult or high-strung people.

彼はまるで猛獣使いのように、気性の荒い部下たちをうまくまとめている。
(He manages his short-tempered subordinates well, just like a beast tamer.)

檻から脱走した猛獣が市街地を徘徊し、住民に緊張が走った。
(The fierce animal that escaped from its cage wandered through the city streets, causing tension among the residents.)

Furthermore, the term appears in academic and educational settings. When children learn about the food chain, 猛獣 might be used to categorize the apex predators. It is a more evocative and descriptive word than 'niku-shokuju' (carnivore), which is a scientific classification based on diet. While a small cat is a carnivore, it is rarely called a 猛獣 unless done so jokingly. The scale and the threat level are what define the 'mō' (猛) in 猛獣. It is the difference between a house cat and a Bengal tiger.

この映画は、ジャングルに住む猛獣たちの過酷な生態を描いている。
(This movie depicts the harsh ecology of the fierce beasts living in the jungle.)

古代ローマのコロッセオでは、剣闘士と猛獣の戦いが行われていた。
(In the Colosseum of ancient Rome, battles between gladiators and fierce beasts were held.)

In summary, 猛獣 is a word that encapsulates the raw, dangerous power of the animal kingdom. Whether used literally to describe a lion in a zoo or figuratively to describe a formidable human opponent, it carries a weight of intensity and primal force that few other Japanese words can match. For English speakers, thinking of it as 'apex predator' or 'savage beast' provides the closest emotional and semantic resonance.

Using 猛獣 (mōjū) correctly requires an understanding of its grammatical role as a noun and the specific verbs and adjectives it typically pairs with. Since it describes a living thing, it often acts as the subject or object of actions related to movement, danger, or containment. In Japanese, sentences involving 猛獣 often utilize verbs like osou (to attack), nigeru/dassō-suru (to escape), or kai-narusu (to domesticate/tame). Because the word itself carries such strong imagery, the surrounding vocabulary often reflects that intensity.

As a Direct Object: When humans interact with these animals, 猛獣 often follows the particle 'o' (を). Common actions include 'watching' (kanshō-suru), 'taming' (ten-nazu-keru), or 'hunting' (karu).
As a Subject: When the animal is the one acting, it is followed by 'ga' (が) or 'wa' (は). Typical actions include 'roaring' (hoeru), 'threatening' (idaku), or 'running' (kakeru).
In Compound Nouns: It frequently attaches to other nouns to create specific terms like 猛獣使い (tamer), 猛獣狩り (hunting), or 猛獣舎 (beast house/cage).

その探検家は、ジャングルの奥地で未知の猛獣に遭遇した。
(That explorer encountered an unknown fierce beast deep in the jungle.)

When using 猛獣 in a metaphorical sense, the particle no yō na (のような) is incredibly common. This allows you to compare a person's behavior to that of a wild animal. For example, 'He has eyes like a fierce beast' (猛獣のような目をしている) implies a predatory or extremely focused and dangerous gaze. This is a common trope in Japanese literature and manga to establish a character's strength or intimidation factor.

空腹の猛獣は、獲物を求めて何キロも移動する。
(Hungry beasts of prey travel many kilometers in search of food.)

動物園の飼育員は、猛獣の世話をする際に細心の注意を払う。
(Zoo keepers take extreme care when looking after fierce animals.)

In formal writing, such as news reports or academic papers, 猛獣 is often used to maintain a serious tone. For instance, a report on public safety might state: 'The risk of 猛獣 attacks in this region has increased.' In contrast, in casual conversation, the word might be used for dramatic effect or humor, such as calling a rowdy group of children 'a pack of wild beasts' (猛獣の群れ).

彼は怒ると猛獣のように手が付けられなくなる。
(When he gets angry, he becomes uncontrollable like a wild beast.)

サーカスの見どころは、猛獣たちが繰り広げるダイナミックなショーだ。
(The highlight of the circus is the dynamic show performed by the fierce beasts.)

Finally, consider the passive voice. 'Being attacked by a beast' (猛獣に襲われる - mōjū ni osowareru) is a common construction in adventure stories. The use of 'ni' marks the agent of the attack. Understanding these patterns allows you to not only recognize 猛獣 but to use it with the natural flow of a native speaker, whether you are describing a nature documentary or a particularly intense Monday morning at the office.

村人たちは、夜な夜な現れる正体不明の猛獣に怯えていた。
(The villagers were terrified of the mysterious fierce beast that appeared night after night.)

While you might not use 猛獣 (mōjū) in every daily conversation, it is an extremely common word in specific environments and media types in Japan. If you are living in Japan or consuming Japanese content, you will encounter it in several distinct contexts. The most obvious place is at the zoo. Japanese zoos are very fond of labeling their exhibits clearly, and the 'Mōjū-kan' (猛獣館) is almost always the most popular section. Here, you will hear families saying, 'Look, it's a mōjū!' to their children, teaching them from a young age that certain animals are in a category of their own due to their strength and potential danger.

News and Media: Television news programs use this word frequently during reports on wildlife sightings. In rural Japan, encounters with bears (kuma) or wild boars (inoshishi) are serious matters. The news will often refer to them as 猛獣 to emphasize the threat to public safety. You will also hear it in nature documentaries (shizen-dokyumentarī), where the narrator describes the predator-prey relationship.
Anime and Manga: In the world of 'Shonen' manga, characters are often compared to 猛獣 to illustrate their raw power or 'fighting spirit' (tōshi). A character might be described as having the 'soul of a mōjū.' It's also a common term in fantasy settings where heroes must hunt down legendary beasts.
Sports Journalism: Commentators might describe a particularly aggressive boxer or a dominant rugby player as a 猛獣. This highlights their physical dominance and the way they 'hunt' for victory on the field.

「次のコーナーは、世界各地の猛獣たちの決定的瞬間をお届けします。」
(In the next segment, we will bring you the decisive moments of fierce beasts from around the world.)

Another common place to hear the word is in variety shows (baraeti bangumi). Sometimes, a comedian with a very loud or aggressive personality will be teased as being a 猛獣, and the 'straight man' (tsukkomi) of the duo will act as the 'mōjū-tsukai' (tamer) who has to keep them in line. This is a very common comedic dynamic in Japanese entertainment. You might also see the word in warning signs near hiking trails or in mountainous regions. 'Mōjū-chūi' (猛獣注意) is a standard sign indicating that dangerous animals are present in the area.

看板に「猛獣注意」と書いてあったので、私たちは引き返すことにした。
(The sign said 'Beware of fierce beasts,' so we decided to turn back.)

この動物園の猛獣館は、最新の設備で動物たちの野生の姿を再現している。
(This zoo's 'House of Beasts' reproduces the wild appearance of the animals with the latest facilities.)

In literature, particularly in classic stories or translations of Western fables (like Aesop's Fables), 猛獣 is used to provide a sense of timelessness and gravitas. It sounds more impressive than just saying 'scary animal.' For example, in a story about a hero proving their courage, they might be tasked with defeating a 猛獣 that has been terrorizing a village. This linguistic choice elevates the stakes of the narrative. Even in modern video games (RPG genres especially), 'Mōjū' is a frequent classification for high-level monster enemies that resemble real-world predators.

彼はかつて、アフリカで猛獣を相手に戦ったという伝説のハンターだ。
(He is a legendary hunter who is said to have once fought against fierce beasts in Africa.)

そのプロレスラーは、リングの上ではまるで飢えた猛獣のような迫力がある。
(That professional wrestler has an intensity on the ring just like a hungry beast.)

Ultimately, 猛獣 is a word that bridges the gap between the natural world and human metaphor. You hear it where there is power, danger, and raw energy. By recognizing it in these various contexts—from the safety of a zoo to the excitement of an anime battle—you gain a deeper understanding of how Japanese speakers perceive the intersection of nature's ferocity and human character.

When learning 猛獣 (mōjū), English speakers often encounter a few common pitfalls. These usually stem from overusing the word or confusing it with other terms for animals. The most frequent mistake is using 猛獣 to describe any wild animal. In English, 'wild animal' is a broad category including everything from a rabbit to a shark. In Japanese, however, yasei-dōbutsu (野生動物) is the general term for wild animals. 猛獣 is a subset specifically for large, dangerous predators. Calling a wild rabbit a 猛獣 would sound like a joke or a significant misunderstanding of the word's intensity.

Confusing with 'Yajū' (野獣): While both words mean 'beast,' yajū (野獣) is often used in more literary or romanticized contexts (like 'Beauty and the Beast' - Bijo to Yajū). 猛獣 is more common in daily life, news, and zoological contexts. Using yajū to talk about a bear in the woods might sound a bit too poetic or dramatic for a standard conversation.
Confusing with 'Niku-shokuju' (肉食獣): As mentioned before, niku-shokuju is a biological term for a carnivore. While all 猛獣 are carnivores, not all carnivores are 猛獣. A small weasel is a carnivore, but it is rarely called a 猛獣. Use 猛獣 when you want to emphasize the 'fierceness' and 'size' of the predator.
Misapplying to Non-Mammals: Strictly speaking, the 'jū' (獣) in 猛獣 refers to four-legged mammals. While you might occasionally see it used loosely for a large crocodile or shark in a sensationalist headline, it is technically incorrect. For sharks, you would use 'kyō-ei' (凶鋭 - ferocious shark) or just 'same.' For crocodiles, 'kyōbō-na wani' (ferocious crocodile) is more accurate.

Incorrect: 森で可愛い猛獣（リス）を見ました。
(I saw a cute 'fierce beast' (squirrel) in the forest.) - *This sounds like a joke.*

Another mistake is forgetting the long vowel 'ō'. Pronouncing it as 'mojū' (short 'o') might lead to confusion, as it doesn't correspond to a common word in this context. Precision in vowel length is crucial in Japanese to ensure you are understood correctly, especially with kanji-heavy vocabulary like this. Additionally, learners sometimes struggle with the register. 猛獣 is a relatively strong word. Using it to describe a small argument between friends might be seen as 'over the top' (ōgesa). It is best reserved for situations involving genuine danger, impressive physical power, or significant intensity.

Incorrect: この猫は猛獣です。
(This cat is a fierce beast.) - *Unless the cat is actually attacking people, this is hyperbolic.*

Confusion: 猛獣 vs 怪獣 (Kaijū)
(Mōjū is a real fierce animal; Kaijū is a giant monster like Godzilla.)

Lastly, don't confuse 猛獣 (mōjū) with kaijū (怪獣). While they share the 'jū' (beast) kanji, kaijū specifically refers to giant monsters like Godzilla. If you call a tiger a kaijū, people will think you are talking about a fictional creature. Conversely, calling Godzilla a 猛獣 downplays his city-leveling power significantly! Keep 猛獣 for the real-world predators of the jungle and the mountains, and you will navigate Japanese conversations much more effectively.

Correct: ライオンは百獣の王と呼ばれる猛獣だ。
(The lion is a fierce beast called the king of all beasts.)

To truly master the word 猛獣 (mōjū), it helps to see how it compares to other Japanese words for animals and beasts. Depending on the context—whether you're in a science lab, reading a fairy tale, or watching the news—the 'correct' word for a wild animal changes. 猛獣 is the standard term for a dangerous land predator, but it is part of a larger family of terms that describe the animal world.

野獣 (Yajū): This word also means 'beast' or 'wild animal.' The difference is subtle: yajū feels more 'untamed' and 'primitive,' often used in literature or to describe a person's raw, animalistic nature. 猛獣 is more 'fierce' and 'dangerous,' often used in practical or descriptive settings like zoos or news reports.
肉食獣 (Nikushokujū): This is the literal term for 'carnivore.' It is used in biological and educational contexts. While a tiger is both a nikushokujū and a mōjū, a small carnivorous bird would only be a nikushokurui (carnivorous species), not a mōjū.
害獣 (Gaijū): This word means 'harmful animal' or 'pest.' It is used for animals that cause damage to crops or property, like crows, monkeys, or deer. A 猛獣 can be a gaijū if it attacks livestock, but gaijū is a much broader term that isn't necessarily about fierceness.
珍獣 (Chinjū): This means 'rare beast.' It is used for exotic or unusual animals that aren't necessarily dangerous, like an okapi or a platypus. It has a much more positive, curious connotation than 猛獣.

その映画の主人公は、野獣のような逞しさを持っている。
(The protagonist of that movie has a sturdiness like a wild beast.)

When deciding which word to use, consider the 'vibe' of your sentence. If you want to warn someone about a dangerous bear, use 猛獣. If you are writing a poem about the spirit of the wilderness, use yajū. If you are writing a scientific report on the diet of wolves, use nikushokujū. This level of precision is what helps intermediate learners transition to advanced proficiency. You are no longer just saying 'animal' (dōbutsu); you are categorizing the animal based on its relationship to humans and its place in the world.

オーストラリアには多くの珍獣が生息している。
(Many rare beasts inhabit Australia.)

農家の人々は、作物に被害を与える害獣の対策に追われている。
(Farmers are busy with measures against harmful animals that damage their crops.)

In some modern slang, you might also hear the word monsutā (monster) used for people who act out or are difficult to deal with, but this is an English loanword and carries a different nuance than the traditional 猛獣. 猛獣 implies a certain respect for the power being displayed, whereas 'monster' is often purely negative. By understanding these alternatives, you can tailor your Japanese to be more descriptive and accurate, whether you're talking about a lion in the zoo or a particularly aggressive competitor in a game.

ライオンやトラは、代表的な肉食獣である。
(Lions and tigers are representative carnivores.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji for 'beast' (獣) actually contains the radical for 'dog' (犭) on the left side, which is common for many characters related to animals in East Asian languages.

Pronunciation Guide

UK məʊ.dʒuː

US moʊ.dʒu

The stress is even across both syllables in Japanese (pitch accent usually falls on the first mora 'mō' in standard Japanese, but varies by dialect).

Rhymes With

hōjū (放縦) kōjū (講中) sōjū (操縦) kyōjū (享受) shōjū (小銃) gōjū (五十) ryōjū (猟銃) tōjū (島中)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'mō' as a short 'mo' (like 'mop').
Pronouncing 'jū' as 'ju' (short 'u').
Confusing it with 'mojū' (which is not a common word).
Failing to elongate both vowels.
Adding a 'u' sound at the very end like 'mōjū-u'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

The kanji for 'jū' (獣) is complex and has many strokes, making it a bit difficult to write but easy to recognize.

Writing 4/5

Writing 獣 from memory takes practice due to its 16 strokes.

Speaking 2/5

The pronunciation is straightforward once you master the long vowels.

Listening 2/5

Distinctive sound, though it can be confused with other 'mō' words if not careful.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

動物 (dōbutsu) 強い (tsuyoi) 怖い (kowai) 肉 (niku) 山 (yama)

Learn Next

野生 (yasei) 捕食 (hoshoku) 絶滅 (zetsumetsu) 生態 (seitai) 繁殖 (hanshoku)

Advanced

鳥獣戯画 (Chōjū-giga) 獣医学 (Jūigaku) 猛威を振るう (Mōi o furuu) 獣道 (Kemonomichi)

Grammar to Know

Noun + のような (Simile)

猛獣のような目。

Passive Voice (ni osowareru)

猛獣に襲われる。

Compound Noun formation

猛獣 + 使い = 猛獣使い。

Conditional 'to' for natural results

檻を開けると猛獣が逃げる。

Nominalization with 'koto'

猛獣を飼うことは難しい。

Examples by Level

ライオンは大きな猛獣です。

The lion is a big fierce beast.

A is B structure using 'wa' and 'desu'.

動物園に猛獣がいます。

There are fierce beasts in the zoo.

Using 'ga imasu' for living things.

猛獣は怖いです。

Fierce beasts are scary.

Adjective 'kowai' modifying the noun.

トラも猛獣の一種です。

Tigers are also a type of fierce beast.

'Isshu' means a type/kind.

猛獣を見に行きましょう。

Let's go see the fierce beasts.

Volitional form 'ikimashō'.

これは猛獣の本です。

This is a book about fierce beasts.

Possessive 'no' connecting two nouns.

猛獣は肉を食べます。

Fierce beasts eat meat.

Direct object 'o' with verb 'tabemasu'.

あそこに猛獣がいますか？

Is there a fierce beast over there?

Question particle 'ka'.

サーカスで猛獣使いを見ました。

I saw a beast tamer at the circus.

Compound noun 'mōjū-tsukai'.

猛獣はとても力が強いです。

Fierce beasts have very strong power.

'Chikara ga tsuyoi' is a common phrase for 'strong'.

この森には猛獣が住んでいます。

Fierce beasts live in this forest.

Location 'ni' with 'sunde imasu'.

猛獣の檻に入ってはいけません。

You must not enter the beast's cage.

Prohibition 'te wa ikemasen'.

彼は猛獣のような声で叫んだ。

He shouted with a voice like a fierce beast.

Simile 'no yō na' modifying a noun.

猛獣に注意してください。

Please be careful of fierce beasts.

Request form 'shite kudasai'.

昨日、猛獣の映画を見ました。

I watched a movie about fierce beasts yesterday.

Past tense 'mimashita'.

猛獣は夜に活動することが多いです。

Fierce beasts are often active at night.

'Koto ga ooi' means 'often happens'.

ニュースで猛獣が脱走したと報じられた。

It was reported on the news that a fierce beast had escaped.

Quotation 'to' with passive verb 'hōjireta'.

彼はまるで猛獣を飼いならすように部下を扱う。

He handles his subordinates as if taming fierce beasts.

Adverbial 'marude ... yō ni' (as if).

サファリパークのバスは猛獣に襲われないように頑丈だ。

Safari park buses are sturdy so they won't be attacked by beasts.

Purpose 'yō ni' with negative potential.

猛獣の生態についてレポートを書く。

I will write a report about the ecology of fierce beasts.

'Nitsuite' means 'about/concerning'.

そのボクサーは猛獣のような鋭い眼光を放っている。

That boxer gives off a sharp glint in his eyes like a fierce beast.

Verb 'hanatsu' used for light/glance.

キャンプ場では猛獣の被害に遭わないよう注意が必要だ。

At the campsite, caution is necessary to avoid being harmed by beasts.

Phrase 'higai ni au' (to suffer damage/harm).

猛獣館のガラスは非常に厚く作られている。

The glass in the 'Beast House' is made to be extremely thick.

Adverb 'hijō ni' (extremely).

古代の狩猟民族は猛獣と戦って生き延びてきた。

Ancient hunting tribes survived by fighting fierce beasts.

Continuative 'te-form' indicating means/method.

彼は怒り狂うと、まるで檻から放たれた猛獣のようだ。

When he flies into a rage, he is like a fierce beast released from its cage.

Conditional 'to' indicating a natural consequence.

その探検記には、未知の猛獣との遭遇が詳しく記されている。

The exploration journal records in detail encounters with unknown beasts.

Passive 'shirusarete iru' (is recorded).

猛獣の生息地が減少していることは深刻な問題だ。

The fact that the habitats of fierce beasts are decreasing is a serious problem.

Nominalized clause 'koto' as the subject.

彼は猛獣使いとしての卓越した技術を持っている。

He possesses outstanding skills as a beast tamer.

'Toshite no' meaning 'in the capacity of'.

猛獣特有の荒い息遣いが暗闇から聞こえてきた。

The rough breathing characteristic of a fierce beast was heard from the darkness.

'Tokuyū no' meaning 'peculiar to / characteristic of'.

この地域では猛獣による家畜の被害が相次いでいる。

In this region, there has been a succession of livestock damage caused by beasts.

'Ni yoru' indicating the cause/agent.

彼は猛獣のような執念で、犯人を追い詰めた。

With the tenacity of a fierce beast, he cornered the criminal.

Instrumental 'de' indicating the manner.

猛獣の保護と住民の安全確保を両立させるのは難しい。

It is difficult to balance the protection of fierce beasts with ensuring the safety of residents.

'Ryōritsu saseru' (to make coexist/balance).

人間の中に潜む猛獣性を完全に抑え込むことは不可能だ。

It is impossible to completely suppress the beast-like nature lurking within humans.

Suffix '-sei' turning the noun into an abstract quality (beastliness).

その小説は、文明社会に投げ込まれた猛獣の悲劇を描いている。

The novel depicts the tragedy of a fierce beast thrown into civilized society.

Compound verb 'nage-komareta' (thrown into).

彼は猛獣を彷彿とさせる圧倒的なカリスマ性で聴衆を魅了した。

He captivated the audience with an overwhelming charisma reminiscent of a fierce beast.

'Hōfutsu to saseru' (to be reminiscent of).

猛獣の牙から逃れるためには、一瞬の判断ミスも許されない。

To escape the fangs of a fierce beast, not even a momentary lapse in judgment is allowed.

Passive potential 'yurusarenai' (is not permitted).

環境破壊が進めば、猛獣たちは行き場を失い、人里に現れるようになる。

If environmental destruction continues, fierce beasts will lose their place and begin to appear in human settlements.

Conditional 'ba' and 'yō ni naru' (come to be).

その冷徹な眼差しは、獲物を狙う猛獣のそれと何ら変わりなかった。

That cold gaze was no different from that of a fierce beast eyeing its prey.

Pronoun 'sore' referring back to '眼差し' (gaze).

猛獣の咆哮が静寂を切り裂き、ジャングルに緊張が走った。

The roar of a fierce beast tore through the silence, and tension ran through the jungle.

Metaphorical verb 'kiri-saku' (to tear/rip).

彼は自らの内なる猛獣と闘いながら、理性を保とうと努めた。

While fighting his inner beast, he strove to maintain his reason.

Simultaneous action 'nagara'.

ニーチェの哲学における『金髪の猛獣』という概念は、しばしば誤解されてきた。

The concept of the 'blond beast' in Nietzsche's philosophy has often been misunderstood.

Specific philosophical terminology.

法治国家において、個人の暴力性は猛獣のように檻に閉じ込められるべきだと彼は説いた。

He argued that in a state governed by law, individual violence should be caged like a fierce beast.

Formal 'beki da' (should) and 'to toita' (explained/argued).

猛獣の如き荒々しさと、緻密な計算に基づいた戦略を併せ持つ稀代の将軍。

A rare general who possessed both the ferocity of a beast and strategies based on meticulous calculation.

Archaic/Literary 'gotoki' (like).

その未開の地では、人間は猛獣の脅威に常に晒されており、生と死は隣り合わせだった。

In that uncivilized land, humans were constantly exposed to the threat of fierce beasts, and life and death were side by side.

Passive 'sarasarete iru' (to be exposed to).

猛獣の美しさは、その無慈悲なまでの生命力の横溢にこそ宿っている。

The beauty of a fierce beast resides precisely in the overflow of its merciless vitality.

Emphatic particle 'koso'.

権力という名の猛獣を御するためには、強固な民主主義の枠組みが不可欠である。

A strong democratic framework is essential to control the fierce beast called 'power.'

Metaphorical 'to iu na no' (named...).

彼は、都会の喧騒の中に潜む猛獣のような欲望の渦に飲み込まれていった。

He was swallowed up by the vortex of beast-like desires lurking within the city's bustle.

Passive 'nomikomarete itta' (was swallowed up).

猛獣の如き天災が、一夜にして繁栄を極めた都市を壊滅させた。

A natural disaster like a fierce beast devastated the city that had reached the height of prosperity overnight.

Literary 'gotoki' used for inanimate objects.

Common Collocations

猛獣使い

猛獣館

猛獣狩り

猛獣注意

猛獣の檻

猛獣のような

猛獣を放つ

猛獣に襲われる

猛獣の咆哮

猛獣の群れ

Common Phrases

猛獣使いになる

— To become a beast tamer; often used metaphorically for managing difficult people.

彼はわがままな女優の猛獣使いになった。

猛獣のような食欲

— An appetite like a fierce beast; eating a huge amount quickly.

彼は猛獣のような食欲でステーキを平らげた。

猛獣の如く

— Like a fierce beast (more literary version).

猛獣の如く敵に襲いかかる。

猛獣注意の看板

— A 'Beware of Beasts' sign.

登山口に猛獣注意の看板が立っている。

猛獣を飼いならす

— To tame a fierce beast.

野生の猛獣を飼いならすのは不可能だ。

猛獣の牙

— The fangs of a beast; used to describe a dangerous threat.

社会の猛獣の牙が彼を襲った。

猛獣の檻を開ける

— To open the beast's cage; to start something dangerous.

その発言は猛獣の檻を開けるようなものだ。

猛獣の血

— Beast blood; implies a wild or savage heritage/nature.

彼には猛獣の血が流れている。

猛獣の咆哮

— The roar of a beast.

夜の森に猛獣の咆哮が響き渡った。

猛獣の生態

— The ecology/lifestyle of fierce beasts.

猛獣の生態を研究する。

Often Confused With

猛獣 vs 怪獣 (kaijū)

Kaijū refers to giant monsters (like Godzilla). Mōjū refers to real dangerous animals.

猛獣 vs 野獣 (yajū)

Yajū is more 'wild/primitive.' Mōjū is more 'fierce/predatory.'

猛獣 vs 猛犬 (mōken)

Mōken is specifically a fierce dog. Mōjū is for larger animals like lions.

Idioms & Expressions

"猛獣を野に放つ"

— To release a fierce beast into the wild; to let a dangerous person go free or start a dangerous situation.

彼を釈放するのは猛獣を野に放つようなものだ。

Metaphorical

"檻の中の猛獣"

— A beast in a cage; someone powerful who is being restrained.

今の彼は檻の中の猛獣のように大人しい。

Metaphorical

"猛獣使いの腕前"

— The skill of a beast tamer; refers to someone's ability to handle difficult people.

彼女の猛獣使いの腕前は社内でも有名だ。

Informal

"飢えた猛獣"

— A hungry beast; describes someone who is desperately seeking something with great intensity.

彼は飢えた猛獣のようにチャンスを狙っている。

Common

"猛獣の如き振る舞い"

— Behavior like a fierce beast; acting violently or without restraint.

彼の猛獣の如き振る舞いに周囲は呆れた。

Formal/Literary

"眠れる猛獣"

— A sleeping beast; a powerful person or entity that is currently quiet but dangerous if provoked.

彼の怒りに触れるのは眠れる猛獣を起こすようなものだ。

Metaphorical

"猛獣の皮を被った羊"

— A sheep in beast's clothing; someone who looks dangerous but is actually weak (rare variant of sheep in wolf's clothing).

彼は猛獣の皮を被った羊に過ぎない。

Informal

"猛獣の巣窟"

— A den of fierce beasts; a place full of dangerous or aggressive people.

あの会社は猛獣の巣窟だ。

Informal

"猛獣を手なずける"

— To tame a beast; to manage a very difficult person.

新入社員が気難しい部長を猛獣のように手なずけた。

Idiomatic

"猛獣の眼光"

— The sharp gaze of a beast; an intimidating look.

彼は猛獣の眼光で私を睨みつけた。

Literary

Easily Confused

猛獣 vs 野生動物 (yasei dōbutsu)

Both refer to animals in the wild.

Yasei dōbutsu is the general term for any wild animal (rabbits, birds, etc.). Mōjū is only for dangerous predators.

リスは野生動物だが、猛獣ではない。

猛獣 vs 肉食動物 (nikushoku dōbutsu)

Both involve eating meat.

Nikushoku dōbutsu is a scientific category based on diet. Mōjū is a descriptive category based on size and ferocity.

小型のトカゲは肉食動物だが、猛獣とは呼ばない。

猛獣 vs 害獣 (gaijū)

Both are 'bad' or 'scary' animals.

Gaijū refers to pests that damage crops (deer, boars). Mōjū refers to dangerous predators (lions, bears).

シカは農家にとっては害獣だが、猛獣ではない。

猛獣 vs 珍獣 (chinjū)

Both are special categories of beasts.

Chinjū means 'rare/unusual beast.' Mōjū means 'fierce beast.'

パンダは珍獣だが、猛獣としてのイメージは薄い。

猛獣 vs 猛犬 (mōken)

Both start with 'Mō' (fierce).

Mōken is strictly for dogs. Mōjū is for large wild beasts.

家の庭にいるのは猛犬で、森にいるのは猛獣だ。

Sentence Patterns

[Animal] は猛獣です。

トラは猛獣です。

猛獣のような [Noun]。

猛獣のような叫び声。

猛獣に [Verb-Passive]。

猛獣に追いかけられる。

まるで [Noun] が [Verb] ように。

まるで猛獣が獲物を狙うように。

[Noun] は猛獣使いだ。

彼女はクラスの猛獣使いだ。

[Noun] に潜む猛獣性。

都会に潜む猛獣性。

猛獣の如く [Verb]。

猛獣の如く吠える。

猛獣という名の [Abstract Noun]。

独裁という名の猛獣。

Word Family

Nouns

獣 (kemono) - beast

野獣 (yajū) - wild beast

猛威 (mōi) - fury/power

猛烈 (mōretsu) - fierceness

Verbs

猛る (takeru) - to rage/be fierce

獣じみる (kemono-jimiru) - to be beast-like

Adjectives

猛々しい (takedakeshii) - audacious/fierce

猛い (takei) - fierce/strong

肉食 (nikushoku) - meat-eating

捕食 (hoshoku) - predation

牙 (kiba) - fang

咆哮 (hōkō) - roar

檻 (ori) - cage

How to Use It

frequency

Common in specific domains (Nature, Zoo, News, Sports metaphors).

Common Mistakes

Using 猛獣 for a small wild animal like a rabbit. → 野生動物 (yasei dōbutsu)
猛獣 implies fierceness and predatory behavior. Rabbits are not fierce predators.
Pronouncing it as 'moju' instead of 'mōjū'. → もうじゅう (mōjū)
The long vowels are essential for correct Japanese pronunciation and meaning.
Calling Godzilla a 猛獣. → 怪獣 (kaijū)
Kaijū is for giant monsters. Mōjū is for real-world fierce animals.
Using 猛獣 for a hawk or eagle. → 猛禽 (mōkin)
The 'jū' in 猛獣 refers to mammals. For birds of prey, use 'kin' (bird).
Using 猛獣 for a person who is just 'acting wild' at a party. → 野獣 (yajū) or simply 'sawagu'
猛獣 implies a dangerous, predatory nature. 野獣 is better for primitive/wild behavior.

Tips

Think of the Zoo

The best way to remember 猛獣 is to associate it with the 'Mōjū-kan' (Beast House) at a zoo. It's the place for lions, tigers, and leopards.

The Animal Radical

Notice that both 猛 and 獣 have the 犭 radical on the left. This radical always indicates something related to animals, usually mammals.

Danger First

Only use 猛獣 if there is an element of danger. A panda is wild, but it's rarely called a 猛獣 because it's seen as cute and herbivorous (mostly).

Aggressive People

You can use 猛獣 to describe a person with a very intense, aggressive personality. It's a great way to add flavor to your descriptions.

Long Vowels

Be careful to pronounce both 'mō' and 'jū' with long vowels. This gives the word its proper weight and prevents confusion.

Mōjū vs. Yajū

Use 猛獣 for real animals in cages or the news. Use 野獣 for 'The Beast' in fairy tales or animalistic human behavior.

Beast Tamer

Memorize 'Mōjū-tsukai' (beast tamer). It's a common phrase in both literal circus contexts and metaphorical office contexts.

News Keywords

When you hear 'Mōjū' on the news, pay attention to the location. It usually means a bear or boar is nearby!

Signs

Look for 猛獣注意 signs on hiking trails in Japan. It's a practical way to see the word in the real world.

Stroke Count

Don't be intimidated by the 16 strokes of 獣. Break it down into the radical, the middle parts, and the right side.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of a **MO**nster **JU**ngle beast. 'Mō' for Monster, 'Jū' for Jungle. A 'Mōjū' is a monster from the jungle!

Visual Association

Imagine a huge tiger (猛) jumping out of a cage (獣). The left side of both kanji has the 'animal' radical (犭), which looks like a claw reaching out.

Word Web

Lion Tiger Bear Fierce Danger Zoo Predator Teeth

Challenge

Try to find the 'Mōjū' section on a Japanese zoo website (like Ueno Zoo or Asahiyama Zoo). Look for the specific kanji 猛獣.

Word Origin

The word 猛獣 (mōjū) is a Sino-Japanese compound (kango). It was formed by combining two kanji characters that have roots in ancient Chinese. The character 猛 originally depicted a dog and a vessel, evolving to mean 'fierce' or 'strong.' The character 獣 depicted a hunting net and an animal, meaning 'beast.'

Original meaning: A fierce or violent four-legged animal.

Sino-Japanese (Kango)

Cultural Context

Be careful when using it for people; it can be a compliment (strong) or an insult (violent/uncivilized) depending on the tone.

In English, we often use 'big cats' or 'predators.' 猛獣 is more inclusive of bears and other large land hunters.

The 'Mōjū-kan' at Asahiyama Zoo. Beastars (Anime/Manga) deals with the relationship between 猛獣 (carnivores) and herbivores. The phrase 'Hyakujū no Ō' (King of 100 Beasts) for the Lion.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At the Zoo

猛獣館はどこですか？
猛獣の食事の時間。
檻の中の猛獣。
猛獣を近くで見る。

News / Safety

猛獣が脱走しました。
猛獣に注意してください。
猛獣の被害が出た。
猛獣を捕獲する。

Sports / Competition

猛獣のような目つき。
猛獣のごとき強さ。
コート上の猛獣。
猛獣を飼いならす。

Literature / Fantasy

伝説の猛獣。
猛獣と戦う勇者。
猛獣の咆哮が聞こえる。
闇に潜む猛獣。

Metaphorical / People

彼は猛獣使いだ。
猛獣のような食欲。
猛獣のような性格。
猛獣を相手にする。

Conversation Starters

"動物園で一番好きな猛獣は何ですか？ (What is your favorite fierce beast at the zoo?)"

"もし猛獣に遭遇したら、どうしますか？ (What would you do if you encountered a fierce beast?)"

"猛獣使いという仕事についてどう思いますか？ (What do you think about the job of a beast tamer?)"

"あなたの周りに、猛獣のような性格の人はいますか？ (Is there anyone around you with a beast-like personality?)"

"猛獣が出てくる映画で、おすすめはありますか？ (Do you have any recommendations for movies featuring fierce beasts?)"

Journal Prompts

もし自分が猛獣になるとしたら、どの動物になりたいですか？その理由も書いてください。 (If you were to become a fierce beast, which animal would you want to be? Write the reason as well.)

動物園の猛獣を檻に入れることについて、あなたの意見を書いてください。 (Write your opinion on putting zoo beasts in cages.)

猛獣のような「強さ」とは、人間にとってどういう意味があると思いますか？ (What do you think 'strength' like that of a beast means for humans?)

最近ニュースで見た猛獣に関する出来事について説明してください。 (Explain a recent event involving a fierce beast that you saw in the news.)

「猛獣使い」のような上司や先生について、あなたの経験を書いてください。 (Write about your experience with a boss or teacher who is like a 'beast tamer.')

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, 'jū' (獣) refers to four-legged mammals. However, in sensationalist news or casual speech, people might occasionally call a large shark a 猛獣 to emphasize its danger. Strictly speaking, you should use 'kyōbō-na same' (ferocious shark).

Yes, bears are the most common real-world example of 猛獣 in Japan. News reports about bear sightings almost always use this term to warn the public.

It literally means 'beast tamer,' like someone who works with lions in a circus. Figuratively, it describes someone who is very good at handling difficult, aggressive, or high-strung people.

It is a standard noun used in news, science, and daily life. It is more formal than 'kowai dōbutsu' (scary animal) but less formal than specific biological classifications.

Only as a joke. If your small dog is acting very aggressive, you might call it a 猛獣 sarcastically. For a truly dangerous dog, the word 'mōken' (fierce dog) is more appropriate.

猛獣 emphasizes 'fierceness' and 'danger' (often used in zoos/news). 野獣 emphasizes 'wildness' and 'primal nature' (often used in literature, like 'Beauty and the Beast').

In a general sense, large predatory dinosaurs like the T-Rex are often described as 猛獣 in books for children. However, scientifically, they are reptiles, not 'jū' (mammals).

Yes, very. Every zoo has a 'Mōjū-kan,' and the word appears frequently in media whenever dangerous animals are discussed.

猛 (Mō) has 11 strokes. 獣 (Jū) has 16 strokes. Both contain the 'animal' radical (犭). It's best to practice the stroke order to get the proportions right.

No. Birds of prey (like eagles) are called 'mōkin' (猛禽). Both use the 'mō' (fierce) kanji, but 'kin' refers to birds and 'jū' refers to mammals.