also: かざなみ
noun
wind and waves; rough seas; storm
Literal meaning: turbulent sea conditions caused by wind. Often used in nautical or weather contexts.
台風の接近で風波が高くなっている。
The wind and waves are getting higher as the typhoon approaches.
noun
Figurative extension: interpersonal conflict or strife, likened to stormy seas.
家庭に風波が絶えない。
There is constant discord in the family.
noun
hardships of life; adversity
Figurative extension: the difficulties and struggles one faces in life, as if tossed by waves.
人生の風波を乗り越える。
Overcome the hardships of life.
Alternate reading; less common and may be considered non-standard or dialectal.
波風 (なみかぜ) also means 'wind and waves' or 'discord', but is more common in figurative use for 'trouble' or 'strife'. 風波 is slightly more literary and less frequent.
Compound of 風 (wind) and 波 (waves). The figurative senses derive from the image of stormy seas representing turmoil or hardship.