Translation guide
In Japanese, the most common word for 'lake' is 湖 (みずうみ). There are also specific terms for large lakes, brackish lakes, and metaphorical uses.
Referring to a lake in general, a body of water surrounded by land.
The standard, everyday word for 'lake'. Used for most lakes, from small to large.
This lake is very beautiful.
You must not swim in the lake.
Loanword from English, used mainly in proper names (e.g., Lake Town) or stylistic contexts. Not used in normal conversation.
Let's go to Lake Town.
Referring to a very large lake, sometimes called an inland sea.
Still the standard term even for large lakes like Lake Biwa.
Lake Biwa is the largest lake in Japan.
Literally 'great lake', used in geographical or formal names, but not in everyday speech.
The Great Lakes are in North America.
A lake connected to the sea with brackish water.
Using 'lake' figuratively to describe a large amount of liquid.
The pattern 'noun + の湖' can be used metaphorically, similar to English.
A lake of tears spread before her eyes.
サロマ湖は北海道にある大きな湖です。
Lake Saroma is a large lake in Hokkaido.