Refers to social, political, or situational upheaval; often used in news contexts for scandals, conflicts, or chaotic events.
That remark caused turmoil within the party.
波乱の幕開けとなった大会だった。
It was a tournament that began with an uproar.
Describes the unpredictable changes and hardships in life; often used in set phrases like 波乱万丈.
彼の人生は波乱に満ちていた。
His life was full of ups and downs.
波乱万丈の生涯を送る。
Lead a life of many vicissitudes.
small and large waves
Obsolete literal meaning referring to the original image of waves; not used in modern Japanese outside historical or literary contexts.
古語では「波瀾」は文字通り大小の波を指した。
In old language, 波瀾 literally referred to small and large waves.
The prime minister's remark stirred up turmoil in the political world.
He lived a life full of ups and downs.
The new season got off to a turbulent start.
The meeting ended without any trouble.
It looks like the final match will have some drama.
That ruling turned out to be a controversial result.