Translation guide
The English word 'eagle' refers to a large bird of prey. In Japanese, the most common and general term is 鷲 (わし). However, there are specific words for different species, and some cultural nuances.
Referring to eagles in general, as a type of bird.
The standard Japanese word for 'eagle'. It covers eagles in general and is widely understood.
An eagle is soaring in the sky.
Eagles have sharp talons.
Referring to a particular species of eagle, such as the golden eagle or bald eagle.
Golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos). The most well-known eagle species in Japan, often simply called '鷲' in context.
Golden eagles inhabit the mountainous regions of Japan.
White-tailed eagle (Haliaeetus albicilla). A large sea eagle found in northern Japan.
Bald eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus). The national bird of the United States, often referred to by this specific name.
The bald eagle is the national bird of the United States.
Crested serpent eagle (Spilornis cheela). Found in the Ryukyu Islands.
Using 'eagle' metaphorically or in set phrases, such as in golf or heraldry.
Loanword from English, used in golf for a score of two under par. Also used in brand names or contexts where the English word is directly borrowed.
He got an eagle on the 18th hole.
Literally 'eagle mark', used to refer to an eagle emblem or logo, such as on a sports team uniform.
That team's cap has an eagle emblem on it.
鷲 (わし) refers to eagles, which are generally larger birds of prey. 鷹 (たか) refers to hawks, which are typically smaller. In everyday Japanese, people may not strictly distinguish between them, but in biological contexts, they are different. If you are unsure, 鷲 is a safe choice for 'eagle'.
Eagles are larger than hawks.
The word ワシ (written in katakana) is a first-person pronoun used mainly by older men in informal settings. It sounds nothing like 'eagle' in English, but the reading is the same as 鷲. Context will make it clear.
I'm already old. (spoken by an elderly man)
The eagle soared high above the mountains.
He scored an eagle on the par-5 hole.
I saw a white-tailed eagle in Hokkaido.
The crested serpent eagle is endemic to Okinawa.