Translation guide
The English word "hazard" refers to a source of danger or risk. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 危険 (kiken), but other words are used in specific contexts like driving, safety, or formal warnings.
To refer to something that could cause harm, injury, or loss.
The most common and versatile word for 'danger' or 'hazard'. Can be used for physical dangers, risks, or threats.
This road is full of hazards.
We discussed the hazards of smoking.
Specifically refers to hazardous materials or dangerous goods.
Handling hazardous materials requires caution.
Loanword from English, often used in technical or safety contexts, such as 'hazard map' or 'hazard light'.
Please check the hazard map.
To refer to the hazard lights on a vehicle, used to indicate a temporary stop or warning.
To refer to a risk or danger in a workplace or environment.
To refer to a bunker, water hazard, or other obstacle on a golf course.
危険 (kiken) is the general word for danger and is used in everyday language. ハザード (hazādo) is a loanword used mainly in technical, safety, or specialized contexts like driving or golf. Using ハザード in casual conversation may sound unnatural unless referring to specific terms like hazard lights.
Do not translate 'hazard a guess' literally. That phrase means to make a guess, and is unrelated to danger. In Japanese, you would say 推測する (suisoku suru) or 思い切って言う (omoikitte iu).
I stopped the car with the hazard lights on.
This task involves many hazards.
That course has many hazards.