Translation guide
In Japanese, the concept of 'water shortage' is most commonly expressed with the word 水不足 (mizubusoku). Depending on context, other terms like 渇水 (kassui) or 水枯れ (mizugare) may be used, but 水不足 is the most versatile and widely understood.
A lack of sufficient water for daily use, agriculture, or industry.
The most common and general term for water shortage. Used in everyday conversation and news.
今年は水不足が深刻だ。
This year, the water shortage is serious.
水不足のため、節水をお願いします。
Due to the water shortage, please conserve water.
Often used in formal or technical contexts, such as news reports or official announcements. Can imply drought conditions.
渇水により農作物に被害が出ている。
Crops are being damaged due to the water shortage.
Literally 'water drying up'. Used for wells, rivers, or springs running dry. More specific than general shortage.
井戸が水枯れした。
The well ran dry.
A long period with little or no rain, leading to water scarcity.
The standard term for drought. Often used in news and weather reports.
干ばつが続いている。
The drought continues.
干ばつ対策が必要だ。
Drought countermeasures are necessary.
Refers to a long spell of dry, sunny weather. More colloquial than 干ばつ.
A temporary interruption of water supply, often due to maintenance or disaster.
Specifically means water supply is cut off. Not a natural shortage, but a planned or emergency suspension.
明日、水道工事のため断水します。
Tomorrow, the water will be cut off due to plumbing work.
地震で断水した。
The water supply was cut off due to the earthquake.
水不足 is a general lack of water resources. 渇水 is more formal and often used in official contexts. 断水 means the water supply is intentionally or accidentally stopped, not necessarily due to scarcity.
Do not translate 'water shortage' word-for-word as 水の不足. While understandable, it is not idiomatic. Use 水不足 instead.
The river water decreased due to the dry spell.