Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'hurricane' depends on the region and strength. The most common general term is 台風 (taifū) for typhoons, which are the same phenomenon in the Pacific. For Atlantic hurricanes, ハリケーン (harikēn) is used. There are also specific meteorological terms.
Referring to a tropical cyclone in the northwestern Pacific Ocean, which is the most common context for Japanese speakers.
The standard word for a typhoon. Used in weather forecasts and everyday conversation.
A typhoon is approaching.
School was canceled due to the typhoon.
Referring specifically to a hurricane in the Atlantic or eastern Pacific, often in international news.
Loanword from English, used for hurricanes in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific. Common in news reports.
A hurricane made landfall in Florida.
A general or meteorological term for a tropical cyclone, regardless of region.
Scientific term for a tropical cyclone. Not used in everyday conversation.
The tropical cyclone developed into a typhoon.
Describing a situation or emotion that is intense and chaotic, like a hurricane.
Means 'storm' and can be used figuratively for turmoil or a flurry of activity. Not specifically a hurricane.
His heart was in turmoil like a storm.
台風 (taifū) is used for typhoons in the Pacific, while ハリケーン (harikēn) is used for hurricanes in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific. In casual conversation, Japanese speakers may use 台風 for any large tropical storm, but in precise contexts, the distinction is made.
In Japan it's called a typhoon, in America a hurricane.