Translation guide
The coldest season of the year. In Japanese, the word 冬 (ふゆ) is the standard term. This guide covers how to talk about winter, including seasonal expressions, winter activities, and related vocabulary.
冬
winter
Referring to the season itself, typically December to February in Japan.
The most common and neutral word for winter.
More formal or written term for the winter season, often used in official contexts like '冬季オリンピック' (Winter Olympics).
冬季は雪が多い。
There is a lot of snow in the winter season.
Talking about things that happen in winter or describing winter conditions.
Common nouns and activities associated with winter.
Winter vacation or winter break, typically around New Year's.
冬休みにスキーに行く。
I'm going skiing during winter break.
Winter clothes.
冬服を買わなきゃ。
I have to buy winter clothes.
Preparations for winter, such as putting up storm shutters or changing to winter tires.
Using winter in haiku, poetry, or metaphorical expressions.
In poetry, 冬 is a kigo (season word) for winter.
冬の朝、静けさの中に雪が積もる。
On a winter morning, snow piles up in the silence.
Severe winter; harsh winter. Used in literary or descriptive contexts.
Japanese culture places strong emphasis on the four seasons. Winter is associated with snow, New Year's (お正月), and hot pot dishes (鍋料理). Using seasonal references appropriately shows cultural awareness.
そろそろ冬支度を始めよう。
Let's start getting ready for winter soon.
厳冬の候、皆様お元気でお過ごしください。
In this severe winter season, please take care of yourselves.