Translation guide
To cause trouble, attract attention, or create a significant impact, often by challenging the status quo.
To create problems or disrupt a stable situation, often by speaking out or acting against the norm.
Literally 'to raise waves and wind', this is the most direct equivalent for causing trouble or discord in a group or relationship.
To do something new, bold, or unconventional that gets noticed, often in a positive or neutral sense.
Means 'to attract attention' or 'to become the talk of the town'. Used when something creates buzz or becomes a hot topic.
To have a powerful effect that alters a situation or field, often in a lasting way.
A general phrase meaning 'to have an influence' or 'to make an impact'. Can be used in many contexts.
Do not translate 'make waves' literally as 波を作る (なみをつくる). That means 'to create waves' in a physical sense, like in water, and does not convey the idiomatic meaning.
He made a remark that made waves at the meeting.
Means to stir up trouble or make an issue worse. Often used when someone escalates a situation unnecessarily.
She discussed it quietly so as not to make waves.
Literally 'to cause a commotion'. Used for creating a public disturbance or uproar.
A drunk made waves in the store.
His new design made waves in the industry.
Literally 'to throw a stone', meaning to make a proposal or take an action that stirs up discussion or change. Often used in intellectual or social contexts.
The paper made waves in academic circles.
Literally 'to cause a whirlwind', meaning to create a sensation or have a huge impact. Often used for phenomena that take the world by storm.
The movie made waves around the world.
Her research made waves in medicine.
Means 'to give a shock' or 'to have a startling impact'. Used when something surprises or shakes up a field.
The discovery made waves in the scientific community.