Translation guide
The English word "temperature" can refer to the measurable heat level of something, a fever, or the weather. This guide covers how to express these concepts naturally in Japanese.
Referring to how hot or cold something is, often in degrees.
The general term for temperature of objects, rooms, liquids, etc. Used in scientific and everyday contexts.
What is the temperature of this room?
Please measure the temperature.
Specifically refers to air temperature, often outdoors or atmospheric. Common in weather reports.
Water temperature. Used for baths, pools, oceans, etc.
Body temperature. Used when talking about health or fever.
Talking about having a fever or elevated body temperature due to illness.
The most common word for fever. Often used in phrases like 熱がある (to have a fever).
I have a fever, so I'll rest.
My fever went down.
Feeling feverish, but not necessarily confirmed with a thermometer.
A slight fever, low-grade fever.
Referring to how hot or cold it is outside, often in casual conversation.
Air temperature, used in weather forecasts and formal contexts.
What's the temperature tomorrow?
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers often describe the feeling rather than stating the temperature. Use 暑い (hot) or 寒い (cold) instead of asking for the exact number.
温度 is the general term for temperature of anything. 気温 is specifically air temperature (weather). 体温 is body temperature. Use the specific word when context requires it.
Saying 温度がある to mean 'I have a temperature' is unnatural. Use 熱がある for fever. 温度 is for measurable heat of objects.
The temperature of the water is perfect.
Check the temperature before you get in the bath.
Today's temperature exceeded 30 degrees.
お風呂の水温をチェックした。
I checked the bath water temperature.
体温を測りましたか。
Did you take your temperature?
I feel kind of feverish.
I've had a low-grade fever.
Is it cold outside?