Translation guide
The English word "wave" covers several distinct concepts: a physical wave in water, a hand gesture, a surge or trend, and a waveform in physics. This guide helps learners choose the right Japanese expression for each meaning.
A moving ridge on the surface of water, such as in the ocean or a lake.
The most common and general word for a wave in water. Used for ocean waves, ripples, and metaphorical waves.
今日は波が高い。
The waves are high today.
子供たちは波と遊んでいる。
The children are playing with the waves.
A more technical or literary term for waves, often used in weather reports or formal contexts.
波浪注意報が出ている。
A high wave advisory has been issued.
Moving your hand back and forth to greet someone or get attention.
The standard way to say "wave one's hand." Used for waving hello, goodbye, or to get someone's attention.
彼女は私に手を振った。
She waved at me.
駅で友達に手を振って別れた。
I waved goodbye to my friend at the station.
Literally "wave one's hand to signal." Used when the waving is specifically to give a sign or signal.
タクシーに手を振って合図した。
I waved to signal a taxi.
A sudden increase or widespread movement, such as a wave of emotion, a crime wave, or a heat wave.
Attach to a noun to mean "a wave of ~." Very productive and natural.
新技術の波が産業を変えている。
A wave of new technology is transforming the industry.
突然の悲しみの波に襲われた。
I was hit by a sudden wave of sadness.
Specifically means "heat wave." A common compound.
今週は熱波が来るそうだ。
They say a heat wave is coming this week.
Means "trend" or "fad." Can be used for a wave of popularity, but is not a direct translation of "wave."
A periodic disturbance that travels through space and matter, such as sound waves, light waves, or radio waves.
The same word as for water waves. Used in compounds for specific types of waves.
音は波として伝わる。
Sound travels as a wave.
Specifically radio waves or electromagnetic waves used for communication.
When waving a flag, fan, or other object, use 振る (ふる) directly with the object, not 波. For example, 旗を振る (はたをふる) means "wave a flag."
波 (なみ) is the everyday word for waves. 波浪 (はろう) is more formal and often appears in weather forecasts or literature. In casual conversation, stick with 波.
そのゲームは一時的な流行だった。
That game was a passing wave of popularity.
Mobile phones communicate using radio waves.