Translation guide
The English word 'sounding' can refer to the act of measuring depth, the quality of a sound, or the act of making a sound. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
To measure the depth of water or a container, often with a line or pole.
The most direct and common way to say 'to sound the depth' or 'to measure water depth'.
Describing how something sounds, often in terms of tone or impression.
A common pattern meaning 'sounds like...' or 'gives the impression of...'.
The act of producing a sound, often with an instrument or voice.
The most basic way to say 'to make a sound' or 'to sound' (e.g., sounding a horn).
English uses 'sounding' as a gerund or noun (e.g., 'the sounding of the alarm'), but Japanese typically uses verb phrases like 鳴らすこと or 音を出すこと. Avoid direct translations like サウンディング, which is not natural.
The alarm sounded.
The captain ordered them to sound the depth.
A technical term for depth sounding, often used in nautical or surveying contexts.
Sounding technology has advanced.
A more general phrase meaning 'to check the depth', usable in everyday contexts.
We sounded the well.
That sounds like a strange excuse.
Similar to 〜ように聞こえる, but often used with adjectives to convey 'sounds (adjective)'.
His voice sounded sad.
Refers to the resonance, tone, or impression of a sound. Often used for names or words.
That name has a nice sound to it.
He sounded the horn.
A transitive verb meaning 'to sound' or 'to ring' something, like a bell or horn.
Please sound the bell.