Translation guide
The English word 'river' generally corresponds to the Japanese word 川 (kawa). However, there are nuances in usage, including size distinctions, compound words, and idiomatic expressions.
Referring to a natural stream of water flowing to the sea, a lake, or another river.
The most common and general word for 'river'. Used for rivers of all sizes in everyday conversation.
この川はとてもきれいです。
This river is very beautiful.
川で泳いではいけません。
You must not swim in the river.
A more formal or technical term for rivers and streams, often used in official contexts like flood control or geography.
河川の氾濫に注意してください。
Please be careful of river flooding.
Specifically referring to a major or large river, often with a proper name.
Means 'large river' or 'great river'. Often used in literary or descriptive contexts, or in proper names like the Amazon River.
アマゾン川は世界最大の大河です。
The Amazon River is the world's largest river.
When 'river' is part of a proper name, such as 'Thames River'.
Referring to the area alongside a river.
Means 'riverbank' or 'riverside'. Used for the edge of a river.
川岸を散歩しましょう。
Let's take a walk along the riverbank.
Refers to a dry riverbed or a riverside area with pebbles, often used for recreation.
Referring to the water of a river or its current.
Literally 'river water'. Used when specifically talking about the water itself.
川の水は冷たいです。
The river water is cold.
Means 'flow' or 'current'. Can refer to the river's current.
川の流れが速いです。
The river's current is fast.
Using 'river' metaphorically to describe a large amount of something flowing.
Literally 'river of tears'. Used in poetic or dramatic contexts.
彼女の頬を涙の川が流れた。
A river of tears streamed down her cheeks.
川 (kawa) is the everyday word for river. 河川 (kasen) is a formal term used in legal, geographical, or technical contexts, such as 'river management' (河川管理). In casual speech, always use 川.
この川の名前は何ですか？
What is the name of this river?
河川法について学んでいます。
I am studying the River Law.
English distinguishes between river, stream, and brook by size. Japanese 川 covers all of these, but for very small streams, 小川 (ogawa, 'small river') is often used. If size is important, specify with adjectives like 大きい川 (big river) or 小さい川 (small river).
小川で水遊びをした。
We played in the brook.
Children are playing on the riverside.