Translation guide
A small, edible frog found in Japan, known for its beautiful singing voice. Often kept as a pet or featured in poetry and seasonal imagery.
Referring to the animal itself, especially in nature, as a pet, or in culinary contexts.
The standard Japanese name for the kajika frog. Used in biological, literary, and everyday contexts.
河鹿蛙の鳴き声が聞こえる。
I can hear the kajika frog singing.
Katakana version, often used in scientific or field guide contexts.
カジカガエルは清流に生息する。
The kajika frog inhabits clear streams.
Abbreviated form, common in poetry and seasonal words (kigo). Can also refer to the frog's call.
河鹿の声が夏の訪れを告げる。
The song of the kajika frog announces the arrival of summer.
Using the frog in haiku or traditional poetry to evoke early summer.
The standard kigo for early summer, representing the frog's call.
河鹿鳴くや渓谷に響く水の音
The kajika frog sings—echoing through the valley, the sound of water.
Referring to the frog as an edible delicacy, often grilled or in hot pots.
Used in culinary contexts, though not an everyday dish.
河鹿蛙の唐揚げは珍味だ。
Deep-fried kajika frog is a delicacy.
In haiku, 河鹿 (kajika) is a kigo for early summer. Using it outside that context may sound poetic or old-fashioned.