Translation guide
To cause excitement, controversy, or public attention. Japanese expressions vary by whether the stir is positive or negative, and by formality.
To attract widespread attention, often in a positive or neutral sense, like making headlines or becoming the talk of the town.
Literally 'become a topic'. The most common and neutral way to say something becomes the talk of the town or a hot topic.
彼の新作映画が話題になっている。
His new movie is creating a stir.
Literally 'cause a sensation'. Stronger than 話題になる, often used for shocking or dramatic events.
To provoke argument, criticism, or heated discussion, often with negative connotations.
Literally 'brew public discussion'. Specifically means to cause controversy or public debate. Common in news.
その政策は物議を醸している。
The policy is creating a stir.
話題になる is neutral and can be positive or negative, while 物議を醸す always implies controversy or criticism. Use 話題になる for general buzz, and 物議を醸す when the stir is about a problematic issue.
新製品が話題になっている。
The new product is creating a stir (positive buzz).
新製品の価格が物議を醸している。
The new product's price is creating a stir (controversy).
Do not translate 'create a stir' literally as かき混ぜる (to stir physically). Use the phrases above to convey the figurative meaning.
The invention created a stir around the world.
Literally 'cause ripples'. Implies that an action or statement has repercussions or causes a stir, often in a negative or controversial way.
大臣の発言が波紋を呼んでいる。
The minister's remarks are creating a stir.
Literally 'become a commotion'. Used when something causes a noisy fuss or uproar, often in a more local or informal context.
ちょっとしたことで騒ぎになった。
A small thing created a stir.
Literally 'cause a controversy'. Direct and clear, suitable for both spoken and written contexts.
その記事が大きな論争を引き起こした。
The article created a big stir.
Literally 'go up in flames'. Internet slang for when a post or person receives massive backlash online, creating a stir on social media.
彼のツイートが炎上した。
His tweet created a stir (online).