Translation guide
The English word "air" covers many concepts, from the atmosphere to a tune to a demeanor. This guide breaks down the most useful meanings for learners and shows how to express them naturally in Japanese.
The invisible gas surrounding the earth; the air in a room or outside.
The most common word for 'air' as a substance. Used for air in a room, fresh air, air pressure, etc.
Let's open the window and let in some fresh air.
The mountain air is delicious (fresh and clean).
Refers to the atmosphere of the Earth or a planet. More scientific/formal than 空気.
Air pollution has become a serious problem.
Loanword from English, used in compound words like エアコン (air conditioner) or in brand names. Not used alone for 'air'.
Please lower the setting on the air conditioner.
The space above the ground; the sky.
The feeling or mood of a situation, place, or group of people.
The most common word for 'atmosphere' in the sense of mood or ambiance. Can be used for rooms, parties, relationships, etc.
This shop has a calm atmosphere, doesn't it?
Also used metaphorically for the mood or 'vibe' of a social situation, especially in phrases like '空気を読む' (read the room).
Loanword from English 'mood'. Often used for a deliberately created atmosphere, like romantic mood or festive mood.
A short piece of music, especially the main tune of a song.
General word for a piece of music or a song. Can be used for any tune.
Do you know this tune?
Loanword for 'melody'. Refers specifically to the main tune, distinct from harmony or rhythm.
Means 'song'. Often used when the tune is a vocal piece.
A person's outward manner or appearance, often suggesting confidence or arrogance.
General word for 'attitude' or 'demeanor'. Can be positive or negative depending on context.
He had an air of confidence.
Refers to the state or appearance of someone/something. '様子を見る' means 'wait and see'.
Suffix meaning 'acting like' or 'putting on airs'. Often negative.
He puts on the air of a scholar.
Being broadcast on television or radio.
To expose to fresh air; to ventilate.
To hang out to dry or air out (clothes, bedding).
Please air the futon outside.
Literally 'let wind pass through'. Means to ventilate a room or let air circulate.
Please air out the room.
Formal term for 'ventilate'. Used in instructions or technical contexts.
Please ventilate regularly.
One of the four classical elements (earth, water, air, fire).
空気 (くうき) is everyday 'air' in a room or outside. 大気 (たいき) is scientific 'atmosphere' of the Earth. Use 空気 for daily conversation.
The air is dry.
Enter the atmosphere.
English 'air' as in 'an air of mystery' should not be translated as 空気. Use 雰囲気 or 様子 instead. 空気 is for social mood (空気を読む) but not for personal demeanor.
This is a very common phrase meaning to sense the atmosphere and act accordingly. It's a key cultural concept. The negative form 空気が読めない (KY) is often used to describe someone clueless.
There's an air of excitement in the city.
I need some fresh air.
The program is still on the air.
ボールが空中に浮かんでいるように見えた。
The ball seemed to be floating in mid-air.
The atmosphere of the meeting turned sour.
He can't read the room. (He's oblivious to the atmosphere.)
Don't get swept along by the mood of the moment.
We had dinner at a restaurant with a nice atmosphere.
その曲のメロディーが頭から離れない。
I can't get that tune out of my head.
A nostalgic tune started playing.
She had an air of sadness.
オンエアの時間を確認して。
Check the air time.
An air spirit appeared.