Translation guide
The process by which a seed, spore, or other reproductive body begins to grow and develop, typically after a period of dormancy.
The biological process of a seed sprouting and beginning to grow into a plant.
The standard term for germination in botany and agriculture. Used for seeds, spores, and buds.
Proper temperature and moisture are necessary for seed germination.
These seeds have a high germination rate.
A common, everyday expression meaning 'to sprout' or 'to bud'. More colloquial than 発芽.
The seeds I planted have sprouted.
The potatoes are sprouting.
The verb form of 発芽, used in formal or technical contexts.
The seeds germinate in spring.
Literary or technical term for germination or budding, often used metaphorically for the beginning of something.
The season of spring germination.
The beginning or early development of an idea, feeling, or social movement.
Literally 'sprouting', used figuratively for the birth or awakening of feelings, ideas, or talents.
There was a germination of artistic interest within him.
Used figuratively for the early signs or beginnings of something, often in intellectual or social contexts.
Occasionally used metaphorically, but less common than 芽生え or 萌芽 for figurative senses.
発芽 is the technical term used in science and agriculture, while 芽が出る is the everyday expression. Use 発芽 in formal writing or when discussing germination rates, conditions, etc. Use 芽が出る in casual conversation about plants sprouting.
For the figurative sense of 'germination' (of ideas, love, etc.), 芽生え is the most natural choice. 萌芽 is more literary and often used for historical or intellectual movements.
恋の芽生えを感じた。
I felt the first stirrings of love.
近代科学の萌芽はルネサンス期に見られる。
The germination of modern science can be seen in the Renaissance period.
新しい思想の発芽。
The germination of new ideas.