Translation guide
The English word 'sonar' refers to a technology that uses sound waves to detect objects underwater. In Japanese, it is commonly expressed using the loanword ソナー or the native term 水中音波探知機, with ソナー being the most natural choice in everyday contexts.
To refer to sonar as a technology or system for underwater detection using sound.
The most common and natural way to say 'sonar' in Japanese. It is a loanword from English and is widely understood.
The submarine used sonar to detect the enemy.
A more technical, descriptive term meaning 'underwater sound wave detector'. It is used in formal or technical contexts but is less common in everyday speech.
This ship is equipped with the latest sonar.
To refer to a specific sonar device or unit, such as on a boat or submarine.
To refer to sonar used by submarines or naval vessels for detection and navigation.
In almost all everyday situations, ソナー is the best choice. 水中音波探知機 is very technical and may sound overly formal or stiff. Use it only in scientific papers or official documents.
We survey the ocean floor using sonar.
Specifically a 'fish finder', a type of sonar used in fishing. Very common in that context.
He bought a new fish finder.
The former navy used hydrophones for anti-submarine warfare.