Translation guide
In Japanese, the word for 'locust' depends on the specific insect and context. The most common term is バッタ (batta), which broadly refers to grasshoppers and locusts. For the swarming phase of locusts, トノサマバッタ (tonosamabatta) is used. In historical or biblical contexts, いなご (inago) is common. This guide helps you choose the right word.
Referring to the insect in everyday conversation, regardless of swarming behavior.
The most common and general term for grasshoppers and locusts. Used in daily life, children's books, and casual conversation. It does not distinguish between solitary and swarming phases.
I found a grasshopper/locust in the garden.
A grasshopper/locust jumped out of the grass.
Specifically refers to locusts, especially those that swarm and are historically known as agricultural pests. Also used for the edible locusts in some regional cuisines. More formal or literary than バッタ.
A swarm of locusts devoured the crops.
Locust tsukudani is a delicacy.
Specifically referring to the migratory locust species or its swarming phase.
The migratory locust (Locusta migratoria), known for forming swarms. This is the scientific and common name for the species. Literally 'lord grasshopper'.
There was a massive outbreak of migratory locusts.
A technical or literary term for swarming locusts. Rarely used in everyday speech.
Referring to locusts in the context of the biblical plague or historical famines.
The standard term used in Japanese translations of the Bible for the plague of locusts. Also used in historical accounts of locust plagues.
The plague of locusts in the Bible.
Referring to locusts as food, a traditional dish in some regions.
When used in culinary contexts, イナゴ specifically refers to locusts prepared as food, often cooked in soy sauce and sugar (tsukudani).
I ate locust tsukudani on rice.
バッタ is the general term for grasshoppers and locusts, while イナゴ specifically refers to locusts, especially those that swarm or are eaten. In everyday conversation, バッタ is more common. Use イナゴ for swarms, plagues, or food.
The child caught a grasshopper.
Locusts infested the rice paddies in large numbers.
The locusts covered the sky.