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.
天と地の間には多くの不思議がある。
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.
宇宙の果て
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.
二人の実力には天地の差がある。
There is a heaven-and-earth difference in their abilities.
Literally 'the difference between clouds and mud'. A common idiom for a stark contrast, similar to 'heaven and earth'.
彼の作品と私の作品では雲泥の差だ。
There's a heaven-and-earth difference between his work and mine.
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.
天地がひっくり返っても、彼は考えを変えないだろう。
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.
天地を揺るがすような大事件
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'.
彼を助けるために全力を尽くした。
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 moon and a soft-shelled turtle'. An idiomatic expression for two things that are incomparably different, like 'heaven and earth'.
あの二人は月とすっぽんだ。
Those two are as different as heaven and earth.