Translation guide
The English word "blast" has several distinct meanings. This guide covers the most common uses for learners: an explosion, a strong gust of wind, a loud sound, and informal expressions like "having a blast."
To refer to an explosion or the shockwave from an explosion.
The most general and common word for an explosion. Can be used for both literal and figurative explosions.
The building collapsed due to a gas blast.
Refers to blowing something up, often with a deliberate action or demolition. Can also mean blasting in mining or construction.
Specifically the blast wind or shockwave from an explosion, not the explosion itself.
To describe a sudden, strong rush of wind or air.
A sudden gust of wind. Commonly used in weather reports and everyday conversation.
To refer to a sudden, loud noise, like a horn or whistle.
A roaring or booming sound, like an explosion or a loud blast. Often used for engines, explosions, or loud machinery.
To express that you are having a lot of fun or a great experience.
The most straightforward and natural way to say you're having a blast. Literally "very fun."
To strongly criticize someone or something, often publicly.
To harshly criticize or blast someone/something. Often used for reviews or public statements.
To fire a weapon or attack with great force, often in a sci-fi or military context.
General verb for shooting a gun or weapon. Can be used for blasting with firearms.
The English idiom "have a blast" does not translate directly into Japanese. Using 爆発 (explosion) would be confusing. Instead, use phrases like とても楽しい or 最高に楽しい to express having a great time.
爆発 (bakuhatsu) is a general explosion, often accidental. 爆破 (bakuha) implies a deliberate act of blowing something up, like demolition or a bomb attack.
I had a blast at the party.
The building was blasted (demolished).
爆風で窓ガラスが割れた。
The windows shattered from the blast.
A blast of wind blew my hat off.
Strong wind in general, not necessarily sudden. Often used in weather forecasts.
The trains were delayed due to strong winds.
Describes a violent, blasting wind that rages. More literary or dramatic.
The wind was blasting so hard we couldn't go outside.
We heard the blast of a jet engine.
A simple, general phrase meaning "loud sound." Not as specific as "blast," but widely understood.
Suddenly, there was a loud blast.
Specifically an explosive sound or the roar of an engine. Often used for motorcycles or music.
The blast of the motorcycle is annoying.
I had a blast at the party.
Emphasizes that it was the best fun, similar to "an absolute blast."
The trip was a blast!
Casual, slangy way to say "super fun." Common among younger speakers.
Yesterday's concert was a blast!
The movie was blasted by critics.
To blame or condemn, often publicly. Slightly less intense than 酷評 but still strong.
He blasted the government at the press conference.
敵を撃った。
He blasted the enemy.
To blow up or blast something, often with explosives. More destructive than just shooting.
They blasted the door open.
The blast shattered the windows.
A blast of cold air hit me.