Translation guide
The English phrase 'boiling up' can refer to the physical process of liquid reaching a boil, or metaphorically to emotions intensifying. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for both senses.
Describing water or other liquids starting to boil, often with a sense of rising heat.
Standard verb for 'to boil' or 'to come to a boil'. Used for water or other liquids.
The water is boiling.
The water in the kettle has started boiling.
Common verb for water boiling or heating up. Slightly less formal than 沸騰する.
The bath is ready (the water has heated up).
Let me know when the water boils.
Specifically for cooking liquids coming to a boil, often with ingredients inside.
The pot is coming to a boil.
Expressing that anger, excitement, or other feelings are rising or reaching a peak.
General phrase for emotions building up or intensifying. Neutral and widely applicable.
Emotions are boiling up before the match.
Specifically for anger welling up inside. Very natural for 'boiling with anger'.
For excitement or agitation building up. Often used in sports or event contexts.
Literally 'to boil up', used metaphorically for emotions or a crowd becoming excited/agitated.
Describes a simmering anger or irritation, like 'boiling inside'. Casual.
His attitude makes my blood boil.
沸騰する is more technical and emphasizes the bubbling action of boiling. 沸く is more everyday and can also mean water is heated (e.g., for a bath). For cooking, 煮立つ is specific to liquids with ingredients.
While 沸き立つ can be used metaphorically, directly translating 'boiling up' as 沸騰する for emotions is unnatural. Use phrases like 感情が高まる or 怒りがこみ上げる instead.
Anger boiled up inside me at his words.
The excitement of the crowd is boiling up.
The venue boiled up with cheers.