Translation guide
The phrase 'heaven and earth' is used in English to refer to the entire universe, everything in existence, or a vast difference. In Japanese, it is expressed through set phrases, idiomatic expressions, and compound words.
To refer to everything that exists, the cosmos, or the world as a whole.
A common compound meaning 'heaven and earth' or 'the universe'. Used in both literal and figurative contexts.
Literally 'heaven and earth', often used when emphasizing the two as separate entities or in poetic contexts.
Between heaven and earth, there are many mysteries.
Means 'universe' or 'cosmos'. More scientific or modern than 天地, but can be used for 'heaven and earth' in the sense of all creation.
the ends of heaven and earth
To emphasize an extreme contrast or gap between two things.
Literally 'the difference between heaven and earth'. Used to describe a huge disparity.
There is a heaven-and-earth difference in their abilities.
Literally 'the moon and a soft-shelled turtle'. An idiomatic expression for two things that are incomparably different, like 'heaven and earth'.
To express doing everything possible, often with great effort or desperation.
Literally 'heaven and earth turn upside down'. Used to describe a tremendous upheaval or effort.
Even if heaven and earth were turned upside down, he wouldn't change his mind.
Literally 'to shake heaven and earth'. Describes an event or action of immense impact.
a heaven-and-earth-shaking event
There is no direct idiom for 'move heaven and earth' as an effort. Instead, use expressions meaning 'do one's utmost' or 'do everything possible'.
I moved heaven and earth to help him.
Directly translating 'heaven and earth' as 天国と地球 (tengoku to chikyuu) sounds unnatural and refers to the Christian heaven and the planet Earth, not the idiomatic concept. Use 天地 or other set phrases instead.
Literally 'the difference between clouds and mud'. A common idiom for a stark contrast, similar to 'heaven and earth'.
There's a heaven-and-earth difference between his work and mine.
Those two are as different as heaven and earth.