激昂

• Reading: げきこう
• Romaji: gekikō
• Kanji breakdown: 激 (geki) — intense, violent; 昂 (kō) — aroused, emotionally elevated
• Pronunciation: /ɡe.ki.ko.ː/

Meaning

Rage; fury; indignation; excitement. A state of being inflamed with intense, uncontrolled anger or emotional arousal.

A noun and suru-verb (激昂する) describing anger that has boiled over into visible, uncontrolled fury. It is stronger than 怒り and 憤り, suggesting a loss of composure. Used in formal writing, journalism, and literary narration to describe emotional eruptions. The related noun 激昂状態 describes someone who is beside themselves with rage.

Examples

1. 彼は不公平な扱いに激昂して、その場を立ち去った。 Enraged by the unfair treatment, he stormed out of the room.
2. 批判に激昂する上司に部員全員が怯えていた。 The entire staff was intimidated by the boss, who would fly into a rage at any criticism.
3. 選手は審判の判定に激昂し、警告を受けた。 The player flew into a fury over the referee's call and received a warning.

Usage Guide

Context: journalism, literary narration, workplace conflict

Tone: intense

Origin & History

From 激 (geki) meaning 'intense' or 'violent' and 昂 (kō) meaning 'to be aroused' or 'emotionally elevated.' Together they capture the intensity of rage that rises beyond the point of control.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal