Translation guide
The English word "waterfall" refers to a natural cascade of water. In Japanese, the most common and direct equivalent is 滝 (たき). However, there are related terms for different types of waterfalls, metaphorical uses, and cultural references.
Referring to a natural cascade of water, such as in a river or landscape.
The standard word for a waterfall. Used for any natural waterfall, from small cascades to large famous ones.
あの滝はとても美しいです。
That waterfall is very beautiful.
I can hear the sound of the waterfall.
A more literary or formal term for a large waterfall, often used in names or poetic descriptions.
Nachi Falls is a famous tourist spot.
An older or alternative kanji for 滝, sometimes used in proper names or traditional contexts.
The sound of the waterfall broke the silence.
Referring to an artificial waterfall, such as in a garden, fountain, or architectural feature.
Literally 'artificial waterfall'. Used for man-made cascades in parks, buildings, etc.
There is an artificial waterfall in this park.
Loanword from English 'cascade', often used for decorative or architectural water features, or in technical contexts.
Using 'waterfall' to describe something that resembles a waterfall in appearance or flow, such as hair, data, or a large quantity.
Pattern meaning 'like a waterfall', used to describe something flowing or cascading. Common with hair, light, etc.
She has long black hair like a waterfall.
A waterfall of information is flowing in.
Literally 'waterfall basin', the plunge pool at the base of a waterfall. Sometimes used metaphorically for a deep or chaotic situation.
Referring to famous waterfalls in Japan or cultural references.
Many famous waterfalls have established names, often ending in 滝 (たき) or 瀑布 (ばくふ). Use the full name when referring to them.
Kegon Falls is in Nikko.
Shiraito Falls is in Shizuoka Prefecture.
滝 (たき) is the everyday word for waterfall. 瀑布 (ばくふ) is more literary and often used in formal names or poetic descriptions. In casual conversation, stick with 滝.
To describe the height or beauty of a waterfall, use adjectives like 高い (たかい, high) or 美しい (うつくしい, beautiful). For the sound, 滝の音 (たきのおと) is common.
There is a cascade in the hotel lobby.
滝壺に飛び込む。
Jump into the waterfall basin.