Translation guide
The height of something above a reference point, usually sea level or the ground. In Japanese, the most common word is 高度 (こうど), but other terms are used depending on context.
Expressing the vertical distance of an object or location above sea level.
The standard term for altitude in most contexts, especially in aviation, geography, and science. It refers to vertical distance above sea level.
The airplane is flying at an altitude of 10,000 meters.
The altitude of this mountain is 3,000 meters.
Literally 'above sea level'. Often used in formal or geographical descriptions, especially for land elevations.
The altitude of this town is 500 meters above sea level.
Specifically the elevation of land (mountains, cities) above sea level. Common in geography and hiking.
The altitude of Mt. Fuji is 3,776 meters.
Expressing the vertical distance of an aircraft or object above the ground or a specific surface.
Still the most common term, but context clarifies whether it's above sea level or ground. In aviation, 'altitude' usually means above sea level, while 'height' above ground is often specified.
The pilot reduced altitude.
Technical term for 'height above ground level' (AGL). Used in aviation and drone operation.
Describing places or conditions at high elevations, often with effects on humans or equipment.
Refers to high-altitude areas or highlands. Often used in contexts like 'high altitude training' or 'high altitude sickness'.
High-altitude training improves endurance.
The air is thin at high altitudes.
Literally 'high altitude'. Used in technical or aviation contexts, e.g., 'high-altitude flight'.
Referring to the illness caused by low oxygen at high elevations.
高度 (こうど) is the general term for altitude and can be used for aircraft, mountains, etc. 標高 (ひょうこう) specifically refers to the elevation of land above sea level. 海抜 (かいばつ) also means above sea level but is more formal and often used in official descriptions. In everyday conversation, 高度 is the safest choice.
The altitude of this mountain is 2,000 meters.
The airplane's altitude is 10,000 meters.
The drone's altitude above ground is set to 100 meters.
高高度気球が成層圏に達した。
The high-altitude balloon reached the stratosphere.