Translation guide
Describes a loud, deep, resonant sound like thunder, or the action of making such a sound. Can be literal (weather) or figurative (applause, voice, hooves).
To describe something producing a sound reminiscent of thunder, such as a voice, applause, or hooves.
Uses the verb 轟く (to roar, to reverberate) attributively. This is the most direct and natural way to describe a thundering sound.
彼の轟くような声が部屋中に響いた。
His thundering voice echoed throughout the room.
観客から轟くような拍手が起こった。
Thundering applause erupted from the audience.
A literary or formal adjective meaning 'roaring' or 'thundering', often used for sounds like wind, waves, or engines.
轟々たる滝の音が谷に響き渡った。
The thundering sound of the waterfall echoed through the valley.
Literally 'like thunder'. A simile that is easily understood but slightly less idiomatic than 轟くような for figurative uses.
雷のような拍手がスタジアムを包んだ。
Thunder-like applause filled the stadium.
To describe the meteorological phenomenon of thunder sounding.
The standard way to say 'it is thundering' or 'thunder is rumbling'. Uses the verb 鳴る (to sound).
外で雷が鳴っている。
It's thundering outside.
A noun meaning 'thunderclap' or 'peal of thunder'. Often used in written descriptions or news.
遠くで雷鳴がとどろいた。
Thunder rumbled in the distance.
To describe something large or numerous moving and creating a thunderous noise, like a herd of animals or a train.
Literally 'making the ground shake'. Used for heavy, thundering movement like a stampede or a large vehicle.
牛の群れが地響きを立てて走り去った。
The herd of cattle thundered away.
Literally 'making a roaring sound'. Suitable for engines, trains, or anything producing a continuous loud noise.
トラックが轟音を立てて通り過ぎた。
The truck thundered past.
While 雷のような (like thunder) is understandable, it can sound childish or overly direct in figurative contexts. Prefer 轟くような for natural, idiomatic expressions like 'thundering applause'.
轟くような拍手
thundering applause