Translation guide
The English word "horde" generally refers to a large, often unruly or threatening group of people or animals. In Japanese, the best translation depends on the nuance: whether it's a disorderly crowd, a swarm of insects, a large army, or a historical nomadic group.
To describe a large, disorderly, or threatening group of people, often moving together.
General term for a crowd or throng of people. Can imply a large, gathered mass, but not necessarily threatening. Often neutral.
A huge horde of people had gathered in front of the station.
Literally 'large group', used for both people and animals. Emphasizes the sheer number and often implies a moving mass.
Refers to a crowd of onlookers or rubberneckers, often at an accident or incident. Carries a negative nuance of idle curiosity.
Specifically a mob or rioting crowd. Implies violence and lawlessness.
To describe a large, moving mass of insects, rodents, or similar creatures.
To refer to a vast, often barbaric or nomadic army, especially in historical or fantasy contexts.
To express a huge quantity of things, often overwhelming or annoying.
Pattern meaning 'a large amount of ~'. Very common and versatile.
Do not use 'ホード' (hōdo) in Japanese; it is not a common loanword and will not be understood. Always use a native Japanese word or phrase depending on context.
大群 (taigun) emphasizes the massive size and often movement, suitable for both people and animals. 群衆 (gunshū) specifically refers to a crowd of people gathered in one place, more static.
観光客の大群が通りを埋め尽くした。
A horde of tourists filled the street.
事故現場に野次馬の群れができた。
A horde of onlookers gathered at the accident scene.
A horde of rioters attacked the store.
Same as for people, but very common for animals. Neutral.
A horde of locusts devoured the crops.
General word for a group of animals. Can be used for insects, but '大群' emphasizes the massive scale better.
A horde of rats swarmed into the warehouse.
Literally 'great army'. Used for large military forces, often in historical or epic narratives.
The Mongol horde invaded Europe.
Refers to military forces or troops. Slightly more literary or historical feel.
The enemy horde advanced on the castle.
Specifically means 'nomadic people'. Used for historical groups like the Mongols or Huns when emphasizing their nomadic lifestyle rather than just military aspect.
The great migration of the horde threatened the empire.
A horde of emails arrived.
Literally 'mountain', used figuratively to mean a huge pile or heap of something.
There was a horde of papers on the desk.
蚊の大群に襲われた。
A horde of mosquitoes attacked us.