1.
physical body, flesh
The physical, material body as opposed to the mind or spirit. Emphasizes the corporeal, fleshy aspect of the body. Often used in philosophical, literary, or fitness contexts.
肉体を鍛える。
Train the body.
肉体労働は精神的にもきつい。
Physical labor is mentally demanding as well.
精神と肉体のバランスを保つことが健康の秘訣だ。
Maintaining a balance between mind and body is the secret to good health.
USAGE NOTE:
More literary and emphatic than 体. While 体 is the everyday word for body, 肉体 stresses the physical, material aspect — flesh and muscle — often in contrast with 精神 (mind/spirit). Common in philosophical discussions, literature, and fitness contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 肉体を鍛える (train one's body)
- 肉体労働 (physical labor)
- 肉体的 (physical, bodily)
- 肉体美 (physical beauty)
- 肉体改造 (body transformation)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 体: body (everyday, general-purpose)
- 身体: body (formal, used in official/medical contexts)