tide; tidal current
Refers to the physical movement of seawater driven by tides. Used in oceanographic and nautical contexts.
The tidal current is fast in this sea area, so caution is needed.
Figurative use for the general direction in which a society, era, or field is moving. Often used in formal or analytical writing.
時代の潮流に乗り遅れないようにしなければならない。
We must not fall behind the trends of the times.
This company successfully rode the trend toward digitalization.
This strait is known for its fast tidal currents.
In recent years, the trend in the industry has shifted dramatically.
He went against the trend of the times and stuck to his old management policy.
ニューウェーブ names a concrete new artistic movement, whereas 潮流 is a more abstract, often figurative word for the general trend or current of the times.
潮流 refers to a trend or current of thought/events in a formal register, while 波 evokes a surging, wave-like advance of change.
潮流 specifically names the ocean current (or a figurative trend), whereas 潮 more broadly means the tide itself or seawater.
潮流 describes a broader trend or tide of the times, whereas ムーブメント points to a more concrete, organized movement or fad.