Translation guide
The period when the sea is at its lowest level, or the water level itself. In Japanese, the most common word is 干潮, but there are other terms depending on context, such as the state of the tide being out (引き潮) or the exposed shore (干潟).
Referring to the time when the tide is at its lowest point, often in contrast to high tide.
The standard, neutral term for low tide. Used in weather forecasts, tide tables, and general conversation.
Low tide today is at 3 PM.
Please check the time of low tide.
A more technical term, often used in oceanography or navigation. Less common in daily speech.
The low-water line in this sea area is complex.
Describing the process of the tide receding, or the period when the water is moving away from the shore.
Refers to the outgoing tide, the movement of water away from the shore. Often used when talking about beachcombing or fishing.
Let's go pick up shells at low tide (when the tide is out).
Similar to 引き潮, but slightly more nautical. Often used by fishermen and sailors.
Referring to the land that is uncovered when the tide goes out, such as tidal flats or beaches.
Tidal flat, the area of mud or sand exposed at low tide. Common in environmental contexts or when talking about shorebirds.
Sandpipers are foraging on the tidal flats.
The activity of digging for clams on the beach at low tide. A popular leisure activity.
Using 'low tide' metaphorically to describe a low point in life, mood, or fortune.
Literally 'the very bottom', used figuratively for the lowest point in life, mood, or economy. Not directly related to tides, but conveys the same sense of a low point.
I lost my job and feel like I'm at low tide (rock bottom).
Literally 'the tide goes out', can be used metaphorically to mean enthusiasm or fortune fades. Less common than どん底.
干潮 refers to the specific moment of lowest water, while 引き潮 refers to the period when the tide is going out. Use 干潮 for tide times, and 引き潮 for the process or state of the tide receding.
Low tide is at 6 AM.
The water is receding quickly with the ebb tide.
We can't set sail because of the ebb tide.
Ride the ebb tide out to sea.
We plan to go clam digging at low tide this weekend.
His enthusiasm faded like the ebbing tide.