Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'grassland' is expressed through several words that differ in nuance, formality, and typical usage. The most common and neutral term is 草原 (sōgen), which refers to grassy plains or meadows. Other terms like 草地 (kusachi) emphasize grassy ground, while 牧草地 (bokusōchi) specifically means pasture. For vast natural grasslands like steppes or prairies, 大草原 (daisōgen) is used. This guide helps learners choose the right word based on context.
The most common way to refer to an open area covered with grass, such as a meadow, plain, or field.
The standard, neutral word for grassland. It can refer to natural grassy plains, meadows, or even large parks. Suitable for both spoken and written Japanese.
We had a picnic in a wide grassland.
Many wildflowers are blooming in this grassland.
Literally 'grass land', this word emphasizes the ground covered with grass. It is often used in agricultural or ecological contexts, but can also refer to any grassy area. Slightly more technical than 草原.
This grassland is used for grazing cattle.
Specifically grassland used for feeding livestock.
The precise term for pasture or grazing land. It implies managed grassland for livestock. Common in agricultural contexts.
Sheep are eating grass in the pasture.
While often translated as 'farm' or 'ranch', 牧場 can refer to the grassland area of a livestock farm. It is broader than 牧草地 and includes the entire facility.
Referring to extensive, often wild grasslands like the North American prairie or Eurasian steppe.
Literally 'great grassland', this word is used for vast expanses of grass, such as prairies, steppes, or savannas. It conveys a sense of scale and wildness.
I traveled across the Mongolian steppe on horseback.
草原 can also be used for large grasslands, but without the explicit emphasis on vastness. Context usually makes the scale clear.
A smaller area of grass, such as a lawn, sports field, or park.
Refers to a lawn or turf, typically maintained and short. Not used for wild grasslands. Common in urban and garden contexts.
I lay down on the grass in the park.
Can also refer to a small grassy plot, but is less specific than 芝生. Often used when the grass is not a manicured lawn.
草原 (sōgen) is the most general term for grassland, from meadows to vast plains. 草地 (kusachi) emphasizes the land as being covered with grass and is often used in technical or agricultural contexts. 芝生 (shibafu) specifically means a lawn or turf, usually maintained and short. Use 草原 for natural landscapes, 草地 for ecological/agricultural descriptions, and 芝生 for gardens and parks.
It feels good to take a walk in the grassland.
The soil of this grassland is fertile.
Please keep off the grass.
広大な牧場で馬が走っている。
Horses are running in the vast pasture.
アフリカの草原には多くの野生動物がいる。
There are many wild animals in the African grasslands.
There is a small grassy area behind the house.