Translation guide
The English word "stampede" can refer to a sudden rush of a crowd or animals, often in panic, or metaphorically to a sudden mass movement. In Japanese, different words and phrases are used depending on what is rushing and why.
To describe a sudden, panicked rush of a crowd of people, often resulting in danger or injury.
Literally 'crowd avalanche', this is the standard term for a human stampede where people are pushed forward uncontrollably, often in a confined space.
To describe a sudden, panicked rush of animals, such as cattle, horses, or wild animals.
Means 'running wild' or 'rampaging'. It is commonly used for animals that are out of control and rushing, though it can also apply to vehicles or people.
To describe a sudden, unthinking rush of people to do something, such as buying a product or joining a trend.
The English word 'stampede' is often translated directly as スタンピード, but this is rarely used in natural Japanese. Use the context-appropriate terms above instead.
A stampede occurred at the concert venue.
Literally 'falling like shogi pieces', this describes a domino-effect fall in a crowd, often leading to a stampede. It emphasizes the collapsing aspect.
A domino-effect fall occurred at the exit, and many people were injured.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'to rush in a panic'. It is more general and can be used for any panicked rush.
The fire alarm went off and people panicked and stampeded to the exit.
The herd of cattle stampeded and broke the fence.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'to startle and run away'. It is a natural way to describe animals fleeing in panic, though it lacks the connotation of a massive, crushing rush.
The horses were startled by the thunder and stampeded.
Means 'rush' or 'flood' of people or things. It is the most common word for a metaphorical stampede, such as a rush to buy tickets or apply for a job.
On the release day of the new product, customers stampeded to the store.
An adverb phrase meaning 'each trying to be first' or 'scrambling'. It vividly describes a competitive rush.
When the sale started, customers stampeded to grab the items.