Translation guide
The English word 'ferment' can refer to a biological process, a state of agitation, or the act of causing change. This guide covers how to express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
To undergo or cause fermentation, as in food or drink production.
The standard term for fermentation. Used for both intentional (e.g., brewing) and natural processes.
Wine is made by fermenting grapes.
This cheese has been fermented for a long time.
Alternate kanji for 発酵, less common but seen in older texts or specific contexts.
Miso is made by fermenting soybeans.
Specifically refers to brewing alcoholic beverages like sake, beer, or wine.
Sake is made by brewing rice.
Means to rot or spoil, often used for unwanted fermentation. Not a direct equivalent for intentional fermentation.
Implies spoilage, not desirable fermentation. Use only for negative contexts.
The milk fermented and turned sour.
To be in a state of excitement, turmoil, or unrest, often among people.
Literally 'to boil', metaphorically used for emotions or situations reaching a peak of excitement or anger.
The city was fermenting with protest demonstrations.
Describes a noisy, agitated state; often used for crowds or public places.
The venue was in a ferment.
Literally 'an uneasy atmosphere hangs', used to describe a situation that feels like it might erupt into unrest.
Means to be shaken or disturbed, often emotionally. Can describe a ferment of feelings.
His mind was in a ferment.
To stir up, foment, or instigate something, often trouble or revolution.
To incite or agitate people, often for political or social action.
He fermented a rebellion by inciting the people.
General term for causing something to happen, including trouble or unrest.
Literally 'to brew', metaphorically used for gradually creating an atmosphere or mood, often negative.
A feeling of distrust was fermented.
When 'ferment' means social or emotional unrest, do not use 発酵する. Use words like 沸騰する or 騒然とする instead.
発酵 (fermentation) is desirable, like in making bread or alcohol. 腐敗 (putrefaction) is undesirable spoilage. Use 発酵 for intentional processes.
The country was in a state of ferment.
The incident fermented social unrest.