Translation guide
This guide covers how to express the idea of a large outbreak in Japanese, such as a widespread occurrence of disease, fire, or other undesirable events. It focuses on natural expressions for different contexts.
To describe a large-scale occurrence of an infectious disease.
Literally 'large prevalence', this is the most common and natural way to say a large outbreak of a disease. It implies widespread and rapid spread.
There was a large outbreak of a new type of influenza.
Means 'large outbreak' or 'mass occurrence', often used for pests, insects, or diseases. Slightly more technical than 大流行.
A large outbreak of cholera was reported.
Means 'spread' or 'prevalence', often used for diseases. To emphasize a large outbreak, combine with 大規模な (large-scale).
A large-scale outbreak of infectious disease is feared.
To describe a large outbreak of fires, such as multiple fires starting simultaneously or a major conflagration.
To describe a sudden large-scale occurrence of violence, riots, or war.
To describe a sudden large increase in the population of harmful insects or animals.
大流行 (dairyūkō) is primarily used for diseases and trends (like fashion), while 大発生 (daihassei) is used for living things such as insects, pests, or sometimes diseases. For fires, use 大火 (taika).
The English phrase 'large outbreak' cannot be directly translated word-for-word into Japanese. Using 大きい発生 is unnatural. Choose the appropriate compound word based on context.
A large outbreak of fire occurred at the factory.
A large outbreak of clashes occurred at the border.
Means 'abnormal outbreak', emphasizing that the scale is unusual or unprecedented.
There is an unusually large outbreak of stink bugs this year.