Translation guide
The English verb 'bellow' describes a deep, loud, powerful shout or roar, often expressing anger, pain, or authority. It can also refer to the deep cry of large animals like bulls. This guide covers natural Japanese equivalents for both human and animal contexts.
To express a deep, loud, forceful shout by a person, typically in anger, pain, or to command attention.
The most common and natural verb for shouting angrily or loudly. It implies a strong, often intimidating voice.
The boss bellowed at his subordinate.
He bellowed in pain.
A general verb for shouting or screaming. It can be used for a loud, deep shout, but it's broader than 'bellow' and can include higher-pitched screams.
He bellowed orders.
A literary or dramatic word for roaring or bellowing, often used for both humans and beasts. It conveys a powerful, resonant roar.
The general bellowed at the soldiers.
To describe the characteristic deep, resonant cry of a bull, cow, or similar large animal.
The general verb for animal cries. For bulls, it is commonly used, though it doesn't specify the deep quality. Context makes it clear.
The bull bellowed lowly.
Onomatopoeic phrase specifically for the 'moo' sound of cattle. It's very natural and common, especially in casual or descriptive contexts.
The cow bellowed (mooed).
Can be used for animal roars, but it's more dramatic and literary. Suitable for describing a powerful, wild bellow.
The bison bellowed.
English 'bellow' for animals is often simply translated as 鳴く (なく) or with onomatopoeia like モー. Using more dramatic words like 咆哮する for a farm cow would sound unnatural.
怒鳴る (どなる) specifically implies anger and a deep, loud voice, while 叫ぶ (さけぶ) is a general shout that can be high-pitched or desperate. For a deep, angry shout, 怒鳴る is closer to 'bellow'.