godan verb (-tsu), intransitive verb
Describes the surface of water, especially the sea, when waves rise and become rough. Often used for weather or sea conditions.
風が強くて海が波立っている。
The wind is strong and the sea is choppy.
台風の前は湖
Before a typhoon, even the lake gets rough.
godan verb (-tsu), intransitive verb
Used for things that move in a wavelike manner, such as fields of grass, flags, or a heart beating rapidly from emotion. The heart usage is somewhat literary.
風で麦畑が波立っている。
The wheat field is waving in the wind.
彼の胸は期待に波立った。
His heart beat fast with anticipation.
godan verb (-tsu), intransitive verb
be in turmoil; be discordant; have troubles
Describes a situation, group, or relationship that becomes unsettled, conflicted, or troubled. Often used for social or emotional unrest.
会議は意見の対立で波立った。
The meeting became turbulent due to conflicting opinions.
家庭内が波立つと子供にも影響する。
When there is discord at home, it affects the children too.