Translation guide
The English phrase 'cold air' can refer to literal cold air (weather, wind, drafts) or to figurative coldness in a room or atmosphere. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this concept is 冷たい空気 (tsumetai kuuki) for physical coldness, or 寒気 (samuke) for a chilly draft or sensation. For figurative uses, 冷たい空気 can also describe an unwelcoming atmosphere, but more specific expressions like 冷たい雰囲気 (tsumetai fun'iki) are often used.
Cold air is coming in through the window.
The cold air outside feels nice.
Often refers to a chilly sensation or a cold draft, especially when it makes you shiver. Can also mean a chill from illness.
I felt a cold draft when I opened the door.
A more formal or literary term for cold air or chill. Often used in written descriptions or technical contexts.
Cold air spread throughout the room.
Describing a social or emotional atmosphere that feels cold, unfriendly, or tense.
冷たい空気 is the most general and neutral term for cold air. 寒気 often implies a sudden chill or shiver, and can also refer to the chills from a fever. 冷気 is more formal and less common in everyday speech.
While 冷たい空気 can be used figuratively, it may sound slightly poetic. In casual conversation, 冷たい雰囲気 is more natural for describing a tense or unfriendly mood.
After the meeting, the atmosphere turned cold.
An adjective meaning 'chilly' or 'desolate', often used for a lonely or cold atmosphere.
The room had a cold, desolate feeling.