also: かざなみ
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.
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.
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.
Standard kanji spelling for both literal and figurative senses.
Alternate reading; less common and may be considered non-standard or dialectal.
Compound of 風 (wind) and 波 (waves). The figurative senses derive from the image of stormy seas representing turmoil or hardship.