Translation guide
The English word "inclement" is almost exclusively used to describe bad weather. This guide focuses on natural Japanese expressions for harsh, stormy, or unpleasant weather conditions.
Describing weather that is unpleasant, stormy, or severe in a general sense.
The standard term for "bad weather" or "inclement weather." Common in news, forecasts, and formal writing.
The game was canceled due to inclement weather.
Everyday phrase meaning "the weather is bad." More casual and conversational than 悪天候.
The weather is bad today, so you should take an umbrella.
Refers to stormy or rough weather, often used in marine or aviation contexts.
The ferry was canceled due to stormy weather.
Abbreviation of 悪天候, used in some compound words or technical contexts, but less common on its own.
Bad weather continues.
Specifically describing weather with heavy rain, storms, or strong winds.
Heavy rain. A common word used in daily conversation and weather reports.
The train was delayed due to heavy rain.
Violent wind and rain; a storm. Often used in weather warnings.
Storm, tempest. Can be used metaphorically as well.
Describing inclement weather that is extremely cold, snowy, or freezing.
In English, "inclement" is almost exclusively used for weather. Avoid translating it literally into Japanese for other contexts. For example, "inclement boss" would not be 悪天候の上司; instead use 厳しい (きびしい) or 冷酷な (れいこくな).
悪天候 is formal and often used in written reports or announcements. 天気が悪い is the everyday spoken equivalent. Use 悪天候 for official contexts like flight cancellations, and 天気が悪い in casual conversation.
Due to inclement weather, the event has been postponed.
The hikers were caught in inclement weather.
A storm warning has been issued.
There was a terrible storm last night.
明日は極寒になる見込みです。
It is expected to be bitterly cold tomorrow.
The weather is so wild that I can't go outside.