tidal front; current rip; line where ocean currents meet
Oceanographic term for the boundary where two sea currents converge, often visible as a line of foam or debris. Also used in fishing contexts because fish gather there.
Plankton gather at the tidal front, attracting many fish.
When the boat crossed the current rip, the waves suddenly became calm.
turning point; course of events; juncture
Figurative extension of the oceanographic sense, used for a critical moment or shift in a situation. Often appears in phrases like 潮目が変わる (the tide turns).
After that incident, the company's fortunes took a turn.
It's important to act by reading the turning point.
Compound of 潮 (tide, current) and 目 (eye, point). The literal meaning is 'tide point', referring to the visible line where currents meet. The figurative sense developed from the idea of a critical boundary or turning point in events.