Translation guide
A rainstorm is a storm with heavy rain. In Japanese, the most common and natural way to express this is 暴風雨 (bōfūu), which specifically means a rainstorm with strong winds. For everyday heavy rain without strong winds, 大雨 (ōame) is more common. Learners should note that directly translating 'rainstorm' as 雨の嵐 is unnatural.
A weather event with both heavy rain and strong winds, often used in weather reports or descriptions of severe weather.
The standard term for a rainstorm with strong winds. Used in weather forecasts and formal contexts.
明日は暴風雨になるでしょう。
There will be a rainstorm tomorrow.
暴風雨のため、電車が止まった。
The trains stopped due to the rainstorm.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'violent rain and wind'. More colloquial than 暴風雨.
昨夜は激しい雨と風だった。
Last night was a rainstorm (with violent rain and wind).
Means 'storm' in general, which can include rain, wind, snow, etc. Context usually makes it clear if rain is involved. Often used in casual speech.
嵐 alone does not specify rain; it can be a windstorm or snowstorm. Use context or modifiers to clarify.
ひどい嵐で外に出られない。
I can't go outside because of the terrible rainstorm.
A period of very heavy rain, not necessarily accompanied by strong winds. Often used in daily conversation.
The most common word for heavy rain. Used in weather forecasts and everyday speech.
大雨で川が氾濫した。
The river flooded due to the heavy rain.
今日は大雨の予報だ。
The forecast says heavy rain today.
Colloquial term for a downpour or torrential rain. Emphasizes the intensity of the rain.
A large-scale tropical cyclone bringing heavy rain and strong winds, common in Japan during summer and autumn.
Typhoon. In Japan, typhoons are the most common cause of rainstorms. Often used when the rainstorm is part of a typhoon.
台風が接近しているので、暴風雨に注意してください。
A typhoon is approaching, so please be careful of the rainstorm.
Do not translate 'rainstorm' as 雨の嵐 (ame no arashi). This is not a natural Japanese expression. Use 暴風雨 or 大雨 depending on the context.
暴風雨 (bōfūu) specifically includes strong winds, while 大雨 (ōame) simply means heavy rain. Use 暴風雨 when wind is a significant factor, and 大雨 for general heavy rain.
外は土砂降りだ。
It's pouring rain outside.