1.
stimulus, stimulation
Something that provokes a physical or mental response.
強い刺激を受けた。
I received a strong stimulus.
コーヒーは脳に刺激を与える。
Coffee provides stimulation to the brain.
目に刺激が強いので、サングラスをかけた。
The stimulation to my eyes was strong, so I put on sunglasses.
2.
incentive, motivation
Something that encourages action or effort.
新しい環境は良い刺激になる。
A new environment serves as good stimulation.
友達の頑張りに刺激を受けた。
I was inspired by my friend's efforts.
彼の成功に刺激されて、私も挑戦することにした。
Inspired by his success, I decided to try as well.
刺激される = to be stimulated/inspired
刺激 refers to anything that provokes a response, whether physical (sensory stimulation) or psychological (motivation, inspiration).
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 刺激を与える (to give/provide stimulation)
- 刺激を受ける (to receive stimulation)
- 刺激になる (to serve as stimulation)
- 刺激される (to be stimulated/inspired)
COLLOCATIONS:
- 強い刺激 (strong stimulation)
- 良い刺激 (good stimulation)
- 経済刺激策 (economic stimulus measures)
USAGE NOTE:
As a suru-verb, 刺激する means "to stimulate" (transitive). The passive form 刺激される often means "to be inspired" when referring to motivation.