Translation guide
The act of exploding or causing something to explode, often with a sudden loud noise. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 爆発 (ばくはつ), but more specific words exist for controlled explosions, engine knocking, and the sound of an explosion.
To refer to an explosion in general, whether accidental or intentional, including figurative uses.
The most common and versatile word for 'explosion' or 'detonation'. Can be used for physical explosions, as well as figurative outbursts of emotion or rapid increase.
ガス爆発で建物が倒壊した。
The building collapsed due to a gas explosion.
人口が爆発的に増加した。
The population increased explosively.
Refers to blowing something up, often intentionally, such as in demolition or a bomb blast. Emphasizes the destructive action.
古いビルを爆破する計画だ。
There is a plan to blow up the old building.
A more literary or dramatic term for a violent bursting or explosion, often used for shells or bombs. Can also describe a powerful hit in sports.
砲弾が炸裂した。
The shell exploded.
To describe a planned explosion, such as in mining, construction, or military operations.
Specifically refers to blasting with explosives in construction, mining, or demolition. Implies a controlled, purposeful detonation.
トンネル工事で発破が行われた。
Blasting was carried out during the tunnel construction.
Means 'initiation of an explosion' or 'detonation' in a technical sense, focusing on the act of setting off an explosive device.
To refer to abnormal combustion in an internal combustion engine, often called 'knocking' or 'detonation'.
The common loanword for engine knocking. Widely understood in automotive contexts.
エンジンからノッキング音がする。
There's a knocking sound coming from the engine.
The direct loanword for 'detonation', used technically in engineering to describe this specific phenomenon.
To describe the loud noise produced by a detonation.
Literally 'explosion sound'. Used for the roar or boom of an explosion.
遠くで爆音が聞こえた。
I heard the sound of an explosion in the distance.
A more general term for a thunderous roar or booming sound, not limited to explosions but often used for them.
爆発 (ばくはつ) is a general explosion, often accidental or natural. 爆破 (ばくは) implies intentional destruction, like blowing up a building or a bomb blast. Use 爆破 when someone deliberately causes the explosion.
While デトネーション exists as a loanword, it is mainly used in technical engineering contexts (e.g., engine knocking). For most everyday situations, use 爆発 or a more specific term.
The bomb's detonation mechanism activated.
デトネーションが発生するとエンジンが損傷する。
If detonation occurs, the engine will be damaged.
爆発の轟音が山々に響いた。
The roar of the explosion echoed through the mountains.