Translation guide
The word for 'swan' in Japanese is 白鳥 (はくちょう). This is the standard term used in all contexts. There is also a poetic or literary term 鵠 (くぐい), but it is rarely used in modern everyday language.
Referring to the large waterbird of the genus Cygnus.
Standard word for swan. Used in all contexts, from everyday conversation to scientific writing.
公園の池に白鳥がいます。
There are swans in the park pond.
白鳥は優雅な鳥です。
Swans are elegant birds.
Poetic or literary term for swan. Rarely used in modern Japanese; may appear in classical literature or poetry.
鵠の姿は気高く美しい。
The figure of the swan is noble and beautiful.