Translation guide
The English word "cry" covers two main ideas: shedding tears and shouting loudly. Japanese uses different words for each, and the context determines which one to use.
To produce tears from the eyes, usually because of sadness, pain, or strong emotion.
The most common and general verb for crying (shedding tears). Can be used for sadness, joy, pain, etc.
彼女は悲しくて泣いた。
She cried because she was sad.
The baby is crying.
Literally "tears come out." A more indirect or descriptive way to say you are crying or moved to tears.
I was so moved that tears came to my eyes.
To cry loudly, wail, or sob. Used for intense, audible crying.
He apologized while crying his eyes out.
To say something loudly, often to get attention or express strong emotion.
To shout, yell, or scream. Used for loud vocalizations, not for shedding tears.
He cried for help.
The child was crying loudly.
To cry and shout at the same time; to scream while crying. Combines tears and loud vocalization.
To yell or shout in a noisy, disorderly way. Often implies anger or complaint.
The characteristic call of an animal or bird.
Both are pronounced なく but written with different kanji. 泣く is for humans shedding tears; 鳴く is for animals making sounds. Using the wrong kanji can cause confusion.
泣く (naku) is for crying with tears, while 叫ぶ (sakebu) is for shouting or yelling. If you want to express both at once, use 泣き叫ぶ (nakisakebu).
She cried when she heard the news.
He cried out in pain.
The baby is crying and screaming.
A drunk was crying out in the street.
The dog was crying at night.