Translation guide
A deep valley with steep sides, often with a river flowing through it. In Japanese, the most common word is 峡谷 (kyōkoku), but 渓谷 (keikoku) is used for narrower, stream-cut valleys, and 谷 (tani) is the general word for valley.
canyon (general)
Use for large canyons like the Grand Canyon.
canyon (narrow, with stream)
Use for scenic, stream-cut gorges.
The speaker wants to refer to a canyon in a general sense, such as the Grand Canyon or a large, dramatic gorge.
The standard word for 'canyon' or 'gorge'. Used for large, deep valleys with steep walls, often formed by rivers. Suitable for famous canyons like the Grand Canyon.
The Grand Canyon is one of the largest canyons in the world.
That canyon is over 1000 meters deep.
Often translated as 'ravine' or 'gorge', but can overlap with 'canyon'. Typically refers to a narrower, V-shaped valley with a stream or river, often in mountainous areas. More scenic and less massive than 峡谷.
General word for 'valley'. Can be used for canyons in casual contexts, but it's less specific. Often combined with other words (e.g., 渓谷, 峡谷) to specify a canyon.
Using 谷 alone may not convey the steepness or grandeur of a canyon. Use 峡谷 or 渓谷 for clarity.
The speaker wants to emphasize a narrow, steep-sided valley with a stream, often in a natural, scenic setting.
The speaker refers to a street with tall buildings on both sides, resembling a canyon.
峡谷 (kyōkoku) is a broader term for deep valleys with steep sides, often large-scale. 渓谷 (keikoku) specifically refers to narrow valleys carved by mountain streams, emphasizing the presence of water and scenic beauty. In many contexts, they are interchangeable, but 渓谷 is more common for hiking destinations and nature spots.
While 谷 means 'valley', it is not specific enough for 'canyon' in most cases. However, in compound words or casual speech, it can be understood from context. For clarity, prefer 峡谷 or 渓谷.
秋の渓谷は紅葉が美しい。
The autumn ravine is beautiful with fall colors.
We enjoyed hiking along the gorge.
That valley is really deep, isn't it?
この峡谷は狭くて、両側の壁が迫ってくるようだ。
This canyon is narrow, and the walls seem to close in on you.
The sky visible from between the buildings is narrow.