Translation guide
The point on the earth's surface directly above the focus of an earthquake. Also used figuratively for the center of an activity or crisis.
earthquake epicenter
Standard term for the epicenter of an earthquake. Used in news and everyday conversation.
The epicenter was in Tokyo Bay.
Technical term for epicenter, common in seismology and formal reports.
The epicenter is estimated to be off the Pacific coast.
The central point of an activity, crisis, or important event.
General term for a center or hub of activity. Natural for figurative use.
That city is the epicenter of culture.
Can be used figuratively for the origin of a crisis or problem, similar to English.
Simple word for center; less emphatic than 中心地 but very common.
震源地 is the everyday word for epicenter. 震央 is technical and used in seismology or formal reports. For general conversation, stick with 震源地.
While 震源地 can be used figuratively, it often sounds dramatic. For neutral figurative centers, use 中心地 or 中心.
The epicenter of the scandal was the political world.
ここが議論の中心だ。
This is the epicenter of the debate.