Translation guide
The English phrase "high water" can refer to the peak of a tide, a flood stage, or metaphorically to a high point or crisis. This guide covers natural Japanese expressions for these meanings.
The highest level of the sea during a tidal cycle.
Standard term for high tide, used in weather forecasts and everyday conversation.
A high water level in a river or lake, often causing flooding.
General term for rising water levels in rivers or lakes, often used in warnings.
A peak moment of difficulty, success, or intensity, as in 'high water mark'.
Directly translating 'high water' as 高い水 (takai mizu) is unnatural and not used in Japanese. Use the context-appropriate terms above.
今日の満潮は午後3時です。
High tide today is at 3 p.m.
Often used for a storm surge or abnormally high tide, especially in disaster contexts.
A storm surge occurred due to the typhoon.
Describes the state of the tide being high, literally 'the tide is full'.
It's dangerous to swim now because the tide is high.
The river is rising due to heavy rain.
Refers to flooding or water overflow, often used in news reports.
This area has flooding every year.
Specifically means 'flood', but can be used when water reaches a dangerous high level.
The river water overflowed the embankment and caused a flood.
Means 'climax' or 'peak', used for the height of excitement, tension, or activity.
The festival reached its peak.
Refers to the zenith or summit, often used for the peak of one's career or powers.
He was at the peak of his popularity.
Loanword from English, commonly used for peak levels in various contexts.
Traffic volume peaks at 8 a.m.