Translation guide
In Japanese, 'large wave' can be expressed through several words that differ in nuance, context, and scale. The most common and versatile term is 大波 (ōnami), literally 'big wave'. For ocean waves, especially in surfing or poetic contexts, 波濤 (hatō) or 怒涛 (dotō) convey a more dramatic, literary feel. In scientific or disaster-related contexts, 津波 (tsunami) refers specifically to a tsunami, a large and destructive wave caused by seismic activity. This guide helps learners choose the right expression based on the situation.
Describing a physically large wave in a body of water, such as at the beach or during a storm.
The most straightforward and commonly used word for a large wave. Suitable for everyday conversation and writing.
今日は大波が来ているから、サーフィンに最適だ。
There are large waves today, so it's perfect for surfing.
台風で大波が発生した。
Large waves were generated by the typhoon.
Literally 'high wave', often used in weather reports or news to describe dangerously high waves. Slightly more formal than 大波.
高波に注意してください。
Please be careful of high waves.
A literary or poetic term for large, surging waves. Often used in descriptive writing or classical contexts.
船は波濤を越えて進んだ。
The ship advanced over the surging waves.
Referring to a large, destructive wave caused by an earthquake or underwater disturbance.
The standard term for a tsunami. Note that the English word 'tsunami' is borrowed from Japanese, but in Japanese it specifically refers to this phenomenon.
地震の後、津波が来た。
After the earthquake, a tsunami came.
津波警報が発令された。
A tsunami warning was issued.
Using 'large wave' metaphorically to describe a surge of something, such as emotion, people, or change.
Literally 'raging waves', used figuratively to describe a powerful, overwhelming surge. Common in phrases like 怒涛の勢い (with raging momentum).
怒涛のような拍手が起こった。
A thunderous wave of applause erupted.
彼は怒涛の勢いで攻めた。
He attacked with raging momentum.
Can also be used metaphorically, e.g., 観客の大波 (a large wave of spectators), but less dramatic than 怒涛.
大波 (ōnami) is the general term for any large wave. 高波 (takanami) emphasizes height and is often used in warnings. 津波 (tsunami) is specifically a seismic sea wave and should not be used for ordinary large waves.
In English, 'tidal wave' is sometimes used loosely, but 津波 strictly refers to earthquake-generated waves. Using it for a large wind wave would be incorrect.
観客の大波がスタジアムに押し寄せた。
A large wave of spectators surged into the stadium.