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.
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.
The characteristic call of an animal or bird.
Used for the cries of animals, birds, and insects. The specific sound depends on the animal.
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).
彼女はその知らせを聞いて泣いた。
She cried when she heard the news.
彼は痛みで叫んだ。
He cried out in pain.
The baby is crying.
Literally "tears come out." A more indirect or descriptive way to say you are crying or moved to tears.
感動して涙が出た。
I was so moved that tears came to my eyes.
To cry loudly, wail, or sob. Used for intense, audible crying.
彼は号泣しながら謝った。
He apologized while crying his eyes out.
彼は助けを求めて叫んだ。
He cried for help.
子供が大声で叫んでいた。
The child was crying loudly.
To cry and shout at the same time; to scream while crying. Combines tears and loud vocalization.
赤ちゃんが泣き叫んでいる。
The baby is crying and screaming.
To yell or shout in a noisy, disorderly way. Often implies anger or complaint.
酔っ払いが道で喚いていた。
A drunk was crying out in the street.
鳥が鳴いている。
The bird is crying.
犬がワンワンと鳴いた。
The dog cried "woof woof."
Specifically for howling or barking, like a dog or wolf.
夜に犬が吠えていた。
The dog was crying at night.