1.
the circulation of blood through the body; blood flow
The physical movement of blood through the body's vessels. Commonly discussed in health, wellness, and medical contexts, especially in relation to massage, exercise, hot baths, and conditions such as cold hands and feet or stiff shoulders.
血行が悪い。
My circulation is poor.
運動すると血行が良くなる。
Exercise improves blood circulation.
温かいお風呂に入ると、体の血行が促進される。
Taking a warm bath promotes the body's blood circulation.
肩こりは血行不良が原因の一つだと言われている。
Poor blood circulation is said to be one cause of stiff shoulders.
Composed of 血 (blood) + 行 (going, moving). Refers literally to the movement of blood through the circulatory system. Most often encountered in everyday health and wellness discussions rather than strict medical contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 血行が良い: to have good circulation
- 血行が悪い: to have poor circulation
- 血行を促進する: to promote blood circulation
- 血行を良くする: to improve circulation
- 血行不良: poor circulation (a fixed compound)
- 血行改善: improvement of circulation
TYPICAL CONTEXTS:
- Massage, bathing, and stretching advice
- Explanations of why exercise is good for you
- Descriptions of cold hands and feet (冷え性)
- Skincare and beauty writing (good circulation → healthy-looking skin)
- Home remedies for stiff shoulders and back pain
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 血流: blood flow — more technical and medical-sounding, often used to describe flow through a specific vessel or organ.
- 循環: circulation — a general word for circulation of any kind; needs 血液循環 to specifically mean blood circulation.
- 血液循環: blood circulation — a fully technical term, used in medical writing.
Register is neutral: 血行 is appropriate in everyday conversation, health magazines, product descriptions (bath salts, massage oils), and casual medical advice.