流行
流行 في 30 ثانية
- 流行 (ryuukou) means trend, fashion, or epidemic. It describes things that spread quickly through a group of people.
- It is used as a noun (流行), a Suru-verb (流行する), or a casual verb (流行る).
- In fashion, it refers to what is 'in style.' In health, it refers to a disease 'going around.'
- Commonly confused with 'ninki' (popular), but 'ryuukou' is more about the current flow and timing.
The word 流行 (りゅうこう - ryuukou) is a multifaceted Japanese term that bridges the gap between the world of high fashion and the world of clinical pathology. At its core, the word encapsulates the concept of something 'flowing' (流) and 'going' (行) through a population. In a sociological context, it refers to a trend, a fad, or a fashion that captures the collective interest of a group for a specific period. Whether it is the sudden ubiquity of a certain style of sneaker or the viral spread of a new dance on social media, 流行 is the word used to describe that momentum.
- Sociological Impact
- 流行 represents the heartbeat of consumer culture. It isn't just about clothes; it can be a way of thinking, a specific phrase (流行語 - ryuukougo), or even a type of food like tapioca tea or specialized pancakes that suddenly see lines forming around the block.
最近、この色の服が流行していますね。 (Lately, clothes of this color are in fashion, aren't they?)
However, there is a second, more somber side to 流行. Because the kanji imply a 'spreading flow,' the word is also the standard term for the prevalence or epidemic of a disease. When the flu or a cold is 'going around' or 'prevalent,' Japanese speakers use 流行. This dual meaning highlights the linguistic connection between how ideas and biological organisms both move through human networks. Understanding this duality is crucial for B2 learners who must distinguish between a 'fashionable' situation and a 'contagious' one based on context.
- Medical Context
- In medical reports or news broadcasts, 流行 refers to the 'outbreak' or 'prevalence' of illnesses. For instance, インフルエンザの流行 (infuruenza no ryuukou) means a flu epidemic.
冬になると、風邪が流行しやすくなります。 (When winter comes, colds tend to spread easily.)
In contemporary Japan, 流行 is often associated with 'Trend' or 'Boom.' While 'Boom' (ブーム) implies a sudden, explosive popularity that might fade quickly, 流行 feels slightly more established as a social phenomenon. A 流行 can last a season or a year, shaping the aesthetic of an entire era. For example, the 1990s in Japan had specific 流行 in music and fashion that are now looked back upon with nostalgia. The word is essentially the bridge between the individual's choice and the collective's behavior.
- Business Application
- Marketing professionals constantly monitor 流行 to predict consumer needs. Terms like 流行遅れ (ryuukou-okure), meaning 'behind the times' or 'outdated,' are used to describe products that failed to keep up with the current flow.
彼はいつも流行の先端を行っています。 (He is always at the leading edge of fashion.)
今年の流行語大賞は何になるでしょうか。 (I wonder what will win this year's Buzzword Award?)
To wrap up, 流行 is not just a word for 'popular.' It is a word for 'movement.' Whether it is the movement of a virus through a city or the movement of an idea through a culture, it describes the state of being widespread and active. As a B2 learner, you should practice using it as both a noun (流行) and a Suru-verb (流行する) to describe everything from the latest TikTok dance to the seasonal flu.
Mastering 流行 requires understanding its grammatical versatility. It primarily functions as a noun, but it frequently transforms into a verb by adding 'suru.' Additionally, it can act like an adjective when combined with the particle 'no' (流行の). This section will break down these patterns to help you use the word naturally in various contexts, from casual chats to formal reports.
- Noun Usage (The Trend)
- When used as a noun, 流行 often sits as the subject or object of a sentence. You might 'follow' (追う) a trend or 'create' (作る) one. For example, '流行を追う' (to follow trends) is a common phrase for someone who likes to stay stylish.
その髪型は、若者の間で大きな流行となった。 (That hairstyle became a huge trend among young people.)
In medical or news contexts, the noun form often identifies the scope or timing of an outbreak. Phrases like '流行の兆し' (signs of an epidemic) or '流行のピーク' (the peak of the epidemic) are essential for discussing public health. Notice how the word remains the same, but the surrounding vocabulary shifts the meaning from fashion to health.
- Verb Usage (To be Popular/To Spread)
- As a verb, 流行する (ryuukou suru) describes the action of becoming widespread. In casual speech, the intransitive verb 流行る (hayaru) is much more common. '流行っている' (hayatte iru) is the go-to expression for 'it's popular right now.'
今、このアプリが中学生の間でめちゃくちゃ流行っているよ。 (Right now, this app is incredibly popular among middle schoolers.)
When you want to describe an item as being 'trendy' or 'fashionable,' you use 流行 as a noun-modifier with 'no.' For example, '流行の服' (trendy clothes) or '流行のレストラン' (a popular/trendy restaurant). This is a very efficient way to add descriptive power to your nouns. It implies that the item is currently favored by many people.
- Adjectival Usage (Trendy/Current)
- Using '流行の' allows you to qualify any noun. It suggests that the noun is part of the current cultural flow. '流行のデザイン' (a trendy design) or '流行の音楽' (popular music of the moment).
彼はいつも流行の歌をチェックしている。 (He is always checking out the trendy songs.)
Finally, consider the negative forms. '流行遅れ' (ryuukou-okure) is a noun meaning 'out of fashion.' If you say '流行に遅れる' (ryuukou ni okureru), it means 'to fall behind the trends.' Conversely, '流行を先取りする' (ryuukou wo sakidori suru) means 'to get ahead of the trends.' These variations allow you to describe someone's relationship with the current cultural zeitgeist.
去年の服を着るのは流行遅れだと思われるかもしれない。 (Wearing last year's clothes might be thought of as being out of fashion.)
都市部では新しいライフスタイルが流行し始めている。 (A new lifestyle is beginning to trend in urban areas.)
By internalizing these patterns, you can discuss everything from public health crises to the latest fashion week with precision. Remember: noun for the concept, 'no' for the adjective, and 'suru' for the action.
In Japan, you will encounter the word 流行 almost daily, but the context will vary wildly depending on the medium. From the neon-lit streets of Harajuku to the sterile environment of a medical clinic, 流行 is a constant presence. Understanding where you are likely to hear it will help you decipher its intended meaning instantly.
- Television and News Media
- On the evening news, 流行 is frequently used in two segments: the weather/health report and the lifestyle/trend segment. In the health report, you'll hear about the '流行状況' (epidemic status) of seasonal illnesses. In lifestyle segments, they cover '流行のスイーツ' (trendy sweets) or '流行のスポット' (trendy spots).
ニュース番組で「インフルエンザの流行」が報じられた。 (The 'flu epidemic' was reported on the news program.)
Social media platforms like Twitter (X), Instagram, and TikTok are breeding grounds for 流行. Users often use the hashtag #流行り (hayari) to share what is currently popular. You might see influencers saying 'これが今の流行りだよ!' (This is what's trending now!). In this digital space, 流行 moves fast—what is 流行 today might be 流行遅れ (out of fashion) by next week.
- Retail and Fashion Industry
- If you go shopping in Shibuya or Ginza, signs will often scream '今シーズンの流行!' (This season's trend!). Clerks will use the word to persuade customers: 'こちらは今、非常に流行しております' (This is very popular right now). In fashion magazines like Vivi or Non-no, the word is used on almost every page to categorize styles.
店員さんに「これは今年の流行の色ですよ」と勧められた。 (The shop assistant recommended it to me, saying, 'This is this year's trendy color.')
In professional settings, particularly in marketing, product development, and sociology, 流行 is used to analyze consumer behavior. Business meetings might involve discussing '流行の変遷' (the transition of trends) to understand how tastes have changed over the decades. It's a key term for anyone working in a creative or consumer-facing field in Japan.
- Educational and Academic Contexts
- In schools, teachers might warn students about '流行の風邪' (the cold that's going around). In universities, sociology students study '流行現象' (trend phenomena) to understand the mechanics of how information and preferences diffuse through a society.
学校でインフルエンザが流行し、学級閉鎖になった。 (The flu spread at school, leading to a class closure.)
「最近、若者の間でどんな音楽が流行っているんですか?」 (What kind of music is popular among young people these days?)
Whether you are watching a variety show on TV, reading a medical pamphlet, or scrolling through social media, 流行 is the lens through which Japanese society views what is 'now'—for better or for worse.
While 流行 is a common word, English speakers often stumble when trying to translate 'popular' or 'trend' directly. Japanese has several words for 'popular,' and choosing the wrong one can lead to awkward or confusing sentences. Here are the most frequent pitfalls to avoid when using 流行.
- Mistake 1: Confusing '流行' (Ryuukou) with '人気' (Ninki)
- This is the most common error. '人気' (ninki) refers to something being well-liked or having many fans. '流行' (ryuukou) refers to something being widespread or a current trend. A person can be '人気' (popular/liked), but a person is rarely '流行' (unless you mean they are the 'person of the hour' in a very specific, trend-like way).
❌ 彼は学校で流行です。 (He is a trend at school - Sounds weird)
✅ 彼は学校で人気です。 (He is popular/liked at school.)
Think of it this way: '人気' is about affection and preference, while '流行' is about prevalence and timing. You might like a classic movie (人気がある), but it isn't necessarily 'trending' (流行っている) unless everyone is suddenly watching it again right now.
- Mistake 2: Overusing '流行' for Long-term Popularity
- 流行 implies something temporary—a 'flow' that passes. If you use it for something that has been popular for 50 years (like Ramen or Baseball), it sounds like you think it's just a temporary fad. For long-standing popularity, stick to '人気' or '定着している' (teichaku shite iru - has become established).
❌ 日本では寿司が流行しています。 (Sushi is a trend in Japan - Sounds like it just started yesterday)
✅ 日本では寿司がとても人気があります。 (Sushi is very popular in Japan.)
Another mistake involves the medical usage. Learners sometimes use '流行' for a disease that is always present (endemic) rather than one that is currently spreading (epidemic). '流行' implies an active increase in cases. For a disease that is simply common in a region, other words like '風土病' (fuudobyou - endemic disease) are more appropriate.
- Mistake 3: Incorrect Particle Usage
- When using the verb '流行る' (hayaru), learners often use the wrong particle to indicate the group or place where it is popular. You should use '〜の間で' (among...) or '〜で' (at/in...). Using 'を' is almost always incorrect because '流行る' is an intransitive verb.
❌ その歌を流行っています。 (Incorrect particle)
✅ その歌が流行っています。 (The song is popular.)
✅ 若者の間でキャンプが流行っている。 (Camping is popular among young people.)
Finally, don't forget the 'no' when using 流行 as an adjective. Saying '流行服' (ryuukou fuku) is technically understandable but sounds like a compound noun or a headline. In natural speech, '流行の服' (ryuukou no fuku) is the standard way to describe trendy clothing.
Japanese has a rich vocabulary for describing popularity and trends. While 流行 is the most versatile, knowing its synonyms and alternatives will allow you to express the specific *type* of popularity you're talking about. Here is a comparison of 流行 with its closest linguistic neighbors.
- 1. 人気 (Ninki) vs. 流行 (Ryuukou)
- As discussed in the mistakes section, '人気' is about being liked. You can have 'ninki' for decades (like Mickey Mouse). '流行' is about the current 'flow.' Something can be 'ninki' without being 'ryuukou' (like a classic book), and something can be 'ryuukou' without being universally 'ninki' (like a controversial trend everyone is talking about but not everyone likes).
Another common alternative is ブーム (Buumu). This is a loanword from English 'boom.' It describes a sudden, explosive rise in popularity. While 流行 can be a steady trend, a ブーム is usually more intense and often implies it might be short-lived. People talk about the 'Tapioca Boom' or the 'Camping Boom.'
- 2. トレンド (Torendo)
- This is the direct loanword for 'trend.' It is used almost interchangeably with 流行 in fashion and social media contexts. However, 'トレンド' sounds more modern and 'cool.' You'll see it used in technical contexts like 'Twitter Trends' (トレンド入り).
そのハッシュタグが世界中でトレンド入りした。 (That hashtag trended worldwide.)
When discussing the spread of something negative (like a virus, a rumor, or a bad habit), you might use 蔓延 (Man'en). While 流行 can be used for diseases neutrally, 蔓延 has a very negative nuance of 'spreading like a plague' or 'becoming rampant.' It is often used for social ills like corruption or the spread of an invasive species.
- 3. 普及 (Fukyuu)
- This means 'diffusion' or 'becoming widespread' in a more permanent, utilitarian sense. For example, the '普及' of smartphones or the '普及' of the internet. Unlike 流行, which might fade, 普及 implies that the thing has become a standard part of life.
電気自動車が一般に普及するにはまだ時間がかかる。 (It will still take time for electric vehicles to become widely used by the general public.)
Finally, consider 流行り (Hayari). This is the noun form of the verb 'hayaru.' It is the most casual way to say 'the thing that's in right now.' In a sentence like '流行りに乗る' (hayari ni noru), it means 'to jump on the bandwagon.' It feels more personal and less 'sociological' than 流行.
私はあまり流行りに興味がありません。 (I'm not very interested in what's trendy.)
By choosing the right word from this list, you can show that you understand not just the word 流行, but the complex social dynamics of Japanese culture.
How Formal Is It?
حقيقة ممتعة
The word '流行' was used in ancient Chinese texts to describe the influence of a ruler's virtue spreading to his subjects. It only became heavily associated with 'fashion' in the modern era.
دليل النطق
- Pronouncing 'ryu' as two syllables 'ri-yu'. It should be one.
- Shortening the long 'o' in 'kou' to 'ko'.
- Using an English 'r' instead of the Japanese tapped 'r'.
- Confusing the pitch with 'ryuukou' (dragon light - rare).
- Forgetting the vowel length in the verb 'hayaru' (it is short).
مستوى الصعوبة
Kanji are N3 level, but the word is common early on.
The kanji for 'ryuu' (流) can be tricky for beginners to write correctly.
Pronunciation is straightforward, and the word is very useful.
Must distinguish between fashion and medical contexts by ear.
ماذا تتعلّم بعد ذلك
المتطلبات الأساسية
تعلّم لاحقاً
متقدم
قواعد يجب معرفتها
Noun + の + Noun
流行の音楽 (Popular music)
〜の間で + 流行る
学生の間で流行る (Popular among students)
〜ている (State/Continuous)
今、流行っています (It is currently popular)
〜によって (Cause/Means)
SNSによって流行が広まる (Trends spread via SNS)
〜ように (So that...)
流行に遅れないように (So as not to fall behind trends)
أمثلة حسب المستوى
このぼうしは、いま流行っています。
This hat is popular now.
Uses the casual verb 流行る in the polite continuous form (〜ています).
流行のうたをききます。
I listen to popular songs.
Uses 流行の as a noun modifier.
それは流行のいろですね。
That is a trendy color, isn't it?
Uses the particle 'no' to link 流行 and color.
いま、なにが流行っていますか。
What is popular now?
Question form using the continuous 'te-iru'.
このゲームは流行っています。
This game is popular.
Subject 'game' followed by the verb 'hayatte-imasu'.
流行のダンスをおどります。
I dance the popular dance.
Direct object 'dance' modified by 'ryuukou no'.
あのお店は流行っています。
That shop is popular (busy).
In this context, 'hayaru' implies the shop has many customers.
流行のふくをかいました。
I bought trendy clothes.
Past tense 'kaimashita' with 'ryuukou no fuku'.
最近、キャンプが流行っているそうです。
I heard that camping is popular recently.
Uses 'sou desu' to report something heard.
流行に遅れないように、雑誌を読みます。
I read magazines so I don't fall behind the trends.
Uses 'ryuukou ni okureru' (to fall behind trends).
冬は風邪が流行するので、気をつけてください。
Colds spread in winter, so please be careful.
Uses 'ryuukou suru' in a medical/health context.
このレストランは今、とても流行っています。
This restaurant is very popular right now.
Uses 'hayatte imasu' to mean 'busy' or 'trendy'.
流行のヘアスタイルにしたいです。
I want to have a trendy hairstyle.
Expressing desire with 'tai desu' + 'ryuukou no'.
去年流行った歌を覚えていますか。
Do you remember the song that was popular last year?
Past tense 'hayatta' used as a noun modifier.
流行の言葉はすぐ変わります。
Trendy words change quickly.
Topic marker 'wa' with 'ryuukou no kotoba'.
彼女は流行に敏感な人です。
She is a person sensitive to trends.
Uses 'ryuukou ni binkan' (sensitive to trends).
今年の流行語大賞には、どんな言葉が選ばれるでしょうか。
I wonder what words will be chosen for this year's Buzzword Award.
Uses 'ryuukougo' (buzzword) and 'taishou' (grand prize).
インフルエンザが流行しているため、学校が休みになった。
Because the flu is spreading, the school was closed.
Uses 'ryuukou shite iru tame' to indicate cause/reason.
流行を追うのもいいけれど、自分のスタイルも大切だ。
Following trends is fine, but your own style is also important.
Uses 'ryuukou wo ou' (to follow trends).
そのデザインは、もう流行遅れだと思います。
I think that design is already out of fashion.
Uses 'ryuukou-okure' (out of fashion).
SNSの普及によって、流行が広まるスピードが速くなった。
Due to the spread of SNS, the speed at which trends spread has increased.
Contrasts 'fukyuu' (spread of tech) with 'ryuukou' (trends).
流行に流されずに、長く使えるものを選びたい。
I want to choose things I can use for a long time without being carried away by trends.
Uses 'ryuukou ni nagasareru' (to be carried away by trends).
若者の間での流行を調査する仕事に興味があります。
I am interested in a job investigating trends among young people.
Uses 'ryuukou wo chousa suru' (to investigate trends).
この漫画は、アニメ化されてから爆発的に流行した。
This manga became explosively popular after being made into an anime.
Uses 'bakuhatsuteki ni' (explosively) + 'ryuukou shita'.
流行は繰り返されると言われており、古いスタイルが再び注目されている。
It is said that trends repeat themselves, and old styles are gaining attention again.
Passive form 'kurikaesareru' (is repeated).
特定の地域で未知のウイルスが流行する兆しが見られる。
There are signs of an unknown virus spreading in a specific region.
Uses 'ryuukou suru kizashi' (signs of spreading).
彼は流行の最先端を行くクリエイターとして知られている。
He is known as a creator who is at the cutting edge of trends.
Uses 'ryuukou no saishantan' (the leading edge of fashion/trends).
過度な流行の追求は、環境問題を引き起こす可能性がある。
Excessive pursuit of trends can potentially cause environmental issues.
Uses 'tsuikyuu' (pursuit) and 'hikikosu' (to cause).
流行現象の背後には、人々の帰属意識が隠されていることが多い。
Behind trend phenomena, people's sense of belonging is often hidden.
Uses 'ryuukou genshou' (trend phenomenon) and 'kizoku ishiki' (sense of belonging).
その企業は、流行を先取りした商品開発で成功を収めた。
The company achieved success through product development that anticipated trends.
Uses 'ryuukou wo sakidori suru' (to anticipate/get ahead of trends).
情報過多の現代において、流行のサイクルはますます短くなっている。
In today's information-overloaded society, the cycle of trends is becoming increasingly shorter.
Uses 'ryuukou no saikuru' (trend cycle).
流行に左右されない普遍的な価値を見出すことが重要だ。
It is important to find universal values that are not influenced by trends.
Uses 'ryuukou ni sayou sarenai' (not influenced by trends).
江戸時代における浮世絵の流行は、庶民文化の成熟を象徴している。
The popularity of Ukiyo-e during the Edo period symbolizes the maturity of commoner culture.
Historical context using 'ni okeru' (in/at).
パンデミックの発生に伴い、流行病の管理体制が強化された。
With the occurrence of the pandemic, the management system for epidemic diseases was strengthened.
Uses 'ryuukoubyou' (epidemic disease) in a formal administrative context.
流行の伝播メカニズムを社会心理学の観点から考察する。
We will consider the propagation mechanism of trends from the perspective of social psychology.
Academic phrasing using 'denpa mekanizumu' (propagation mechanism).
その作家の文体は、当時の文学界における流行の粋を集めたものだった。
The author's style was a collection of the very essence of the trends in the literary world at that time.
Uses 'ryuukou no sui' (the essence/best of the trend).
消費者の嗜好が多様化し、かつてのような巨大な流行は生まれにくくなっている。
As consumer preferences diversify, it has become harder for massive trends like those of the past to emerge.
Uses 'shikou' (preferences) and 'umare-nikui' (hard to be born/created).
流行は単なる模倣ではなく、個人のアイデンティティ形成の一助となる側面もある。
Trends are not merely imitation; they also have an aspect of aiding in the formation of individual identity.
Complex logical structure using 'tannaru... dewa naku' (not just...).
グローバル化の進展により、世界規模での流行の同時多発化が顕著である。
With the progress of globalization, the simultaneous occurrence of trends on a global scale is remarkable.
Uses 'douji tahatsuka' (simultaneous multiple occurrences).
流行に盲従することは、批判的思考の欠如を露呈しかねない。
Blindly following trends might expose a lack of critical thinking.
Uses 'moujuu' (blind obedience) and 'rotei shikanenai' (could expose).
流行という現象は、通時的な文化変容のプロセスとして捉え直すべきである。
The phenomenon of trends should be re-conceptualized as a process of diachronic cultural transformation.
Highly academic/philosophical language using 'tsuujiteki' (diachronic).
マスメディアによる流行の捏造が、大衆の審美眼を歪めているとの批判がある。
There is criticism that the fabrication of trends by mass media is distorting the aesthetic discernment of the public.
Uses 'netsuzou' (fabrication) and 'shinbigan' (aesthetic eye/discernment).
流行の消長は、社会の深層心理に潜む集団的無意識の表出に他ならない。
The rise and fall of trends is nothing other than the manifestation of the collective unconscious lurking in the deep psychology of society.
Uses 'shouchou' (rise and fall) and 'ni hokanaranai' (nothing other than).
ポストモダン社会における流行は、中心を欠いた断片的な差異の遊戯へと変質した。
Trends in postmodern society have transformed into a fragmentary play of differences lacking a center.
Uses philosophical terms like 'yuugi' (play) and 'henshitsu' (degeneration/transformation).
特定の言説が流行し、それが真理として固定化される過程には権力構造が介在している。
The power structure intervenes in the process where a specific discourse trends and becomes fixed as truth.
Uses 'gensetsu' (discourse) and 'kaizai' (intervention).
流行病の蔓延を阻止するためには、国境を越えた疫学的な連帯が不可欠である。
To prevent the spread of epidemic diseases, trans-border epidemiological solidarity is indispensable.
Uses 'ekigakuteki' (epidemiological) and 'rentai' (solidarity).
流行の最中にあっても、その一時性に自覚的であることは知的な誠実さを保つ条件である。
Even in the midst of a trend, being conscious of its ephemerality is a condition for maintaining intellectual integrity.
Uses 'ichijisei' (temporariness/ephemerality) and 'seijitsusa' (integrity).
伝統と流行の弁証法的な統合こそが、新たな文化創造の源泉となる。
The dialectical integration of tradition and trend is the very source of new cultural creation.
Uses 'benshouhouteki' (dialectical) and 'gensen' (source).
تلازمات شائعة
العبارات الشائعة
— The rise and fall of trends. It refers to the cyclical nature of popularity.
流行り廃りの激しい業界です。
— The Buzzword of the Year Award. A major annual event in Japan.
今年の流行語大賞は何かな?
— Trendy things or fads. Often used slightly dismissively.
彼は流行りものに目がない。
— The trendy color of the season.
今年の流行色はパステルカラーだ。
— A popular song; a hit song of a certain era.
昭和の流行歌を歌う。
— A popular/best-selling author of the moment.
彼は今、最も注目されている流行作家だ。
— A trendy style.
これが最新の流行スタイルです。
— Trendy clothes.
流行の服を買いに行く。
— A trendy or popular shop/restaurant.
流行の店はどこも混んでいる。
— The very edge of current trends; the 'cutting edge'.
流行の最先端を行く。
يُخلط عادةً مع
Ninki is being liked; Ryuukou is being widespread/trending.
Fukyuu is permanent adoption; Ryuukou is often temporary.
Man'en is the spread of something negative; Ryuukou is more neutral.
تعبيرات اصطلاحية
— To be blindly carried away by trends without thinking for oneself.
流行に流されず、自分自身の価値観を大切にしなさい。
Neutral— To adopt a trend before it becomes widely popular.
彼女はいつも流行を先取りしている。
Positive— To be out of fashion; an outdated style.
そのネクタイはもう流行遅れだよ。
Informal— To be very aware of and quick to adopt new trends.
若者は流行に敏感だ。
Neutral— To ride the wave of a trend; to take advantage of a current popularity.
新製品はうまく流行の波に乗った。
Neutral— To dominate an era; to be incredibly popular throughout society for a time.
そのアイドルは80年代に一世を風靡した。
Formal/Literary— To be out of touch with trends; to not know what is popular.
私はファッションの流行に疎いんです。
Neutral/Humble— To create or pioneer a new trend.
カリスマ店員が新しい流行を創り出す。
Neutral— To have ups and downs in popularity; 'easy come, easy go'.
世の中には流行り廃りがあるものだ。
Neutral— For a trend to become popular again after a period of absence.
レトロなカメラの流行が再燃している。
Neutralسهل الخلط
Often translated as 'popular' in English dictionaries.
Refers specifically to the 'flow' or 'trend' aspect. It implies timing and prevalence.
流行のヘアスタイル (A trendy hairstyle)
Also translated as 'popular'.
Refers to being liked or having a high reputation. A classic teacher might be 'ninki' but not 'ryuukou'.
人気の先生 (A popular teacher)
Similar meaning to trend.
Usually implies a more sudden and intense spike in popularity than 'ryuukou'.
タピオカブーム (The tapioca boom)
Loanword for trend.
Used more in modern digital or professional fashion contexts. Sounds more 'up-to-date'.
Twitterのトレンド (Twitter trends)
Means to spread.
Used specifically for rumors, information, or theories. Not for fashion or diseases.
噂が流布する (A rumor spreads)
أنماط الجُمل
[Item] が 流行っています。
この歌が流行っています。
流行の [Noun] を [Verb]。
流行の服を買いました。
[Group] の間で [Item] が 流行っている。
若者の間でこのアプリが流行っている。
流行に [遅れる/乗る/追う]。
流行に乗るのは楽しい。
[Disease] の 流行 が 懸念される。
感染症の流行が懸念される。
流行に左右されずに [Verb]。
流行に左右されずに自分の道を行く。
流行の [兆し/最先端/サイクル]。
流行のサイクルが速くなっている。
流行という [現象/言説/表出]。
流行という現象を多角的に分析する。
عائلة الكلمة
الأسماء
الأفعال
الصفات
مرتبط
كيفية الاستخدام
Extremely high in daily life, media, and medical contexts.
-
Using 流行 for people.
→
田中さんは人気があります。
流行 is for things or phenomena. Using it for a person implies they are a temporary fad object.
-
Using 'wo' with hayaru.
→
この歌が流行っています。
Hayaru is intransitive. The trend itself is the subject, so use 'ga'.
-
Using 流行 for long-term popularity.
→
日本では野球が人気です。
Baseball is a staple, not a temporary trend. Use 'ninki'.
-
Forgetting 'no' in 'ryuukou no [noun]'.
→
流行のスタイル
流行 is a noun, so it needs 'no' to modify another noun.
-
Confusing 'ryuukou' with 'fukyuu'.
→
スマホが普及した。
For widespread adoption of tools/tech, 'fukyuu' is more accurate than 'ryuukou'.
نصائح
Fashion vs. Disease
Always check the subject. If it's a noun like 'kaze' (cold), it's an epidemic. If it's 'fuku' (clothes), it's fashion. The grammar is identical, so context is key.
Antonym Check
Use 'ryuukou-okure' to describe your old smartphone or clothes from five years ago. It's a very useful word for shopping!
Casual Fluency
Try saying 'Saikin nani ga hayatteru no?' to your Japanese friends. It's the perfect way to learn about new music or apps while practicing the word.
Buzzword Award
Look up 'Ryuukougo Taishou' on YouTube in December. It's a great way to see what was important in Japan that year.
Verb Forms
Remember that 'hayaru' is a Group 1 (u-verb), so it becomes 'hayatta' in the past and 'hayaranai' in the negative.
Kanji Practice
The kanji for 'ryuu' (流) has 10 strokes. Make sure the 'water' radical on the left is clear. It's a very common kanji in many words.
Popular vs. Trendy
If you want to say you like something because it's good, use 'ninki'. If you like it because everyone else is doing it, use 'ryuukou'.
Hashtags
On Japanese Instagram, people often use #流行り or #流行りのもの to tag trendy cafes and products.
News Context
When you hear 'ryuukou' on the news, wait for words like 'yobou' (prevention) or 'kansen' (infection) to confirm it's about a disease.
Flow and Go
Associate 'ryuu' with a river. Trends flow in like a river and then they go (kou) away. This helps remember both kanji and the meaning.
احفظها
وسيلة تذكّر
Imagine a river (流) where everyone is walking (行) in the same direction. That's a trend!
ربط بصري
A crowd of people in Tokyo all holding the same colorful umbrella (a trend) or a virus icon flowing through a city map.
Word Web
تحدٍّ
Try to find one 'ryuukou' in your neighborhood today (a fashion item) and one 'ryuukou' in the news (a health topic) and write a sentence for each.
أصل الكلمة
The word comes from Middle Chinese roots. '流' (ryuu) means to flow, like water in a river. '行' (kou) means to go, to walk, or to conduct. Together, they describe something that is moving through society like a current.
المعنى الأصلي: Originally referred to the spread of customs, beliefs, or diseases from one person to another, much like water flowing down a stream.
Sino-Japanese (Kango)السياق الثقافي
Be careful when using 流行 for diseases; in serious medical contexts, 'kansen' (infection) or 'man'en' (spread) might be more specific, but 流行 is standard for news.
English speakers often use 'popular' for both 'ninki' and 'ryuukou', but in Japanese, you must distinguish between 'liked' and 'trending'.
تدرّب في الحياة الواقعية
سياقات واقعية
Fashion and Style
- 最新の流行 (the latest trend)
- 流行の服 (trendy clothes)
- 流行を取り入れる (to incorporate trends)
- 流行を追わない (not following trends)
Health and Medicine
- 流行病 (epidemic disease)
- 流行の兆し (signs of an outbreak)
- 流行を抑える (to suppress an epidemic)
- 流行地域 (affected area)
Social Media and Internet
- トレンド入り (trending/entering the trends)
- バズる (to go viral)
- 流行のハッシュタグ (trending hashtags)
- 流行りの動画 (popular videos)
Business and Marketing
- 市場の流行 (market trends)
- 流行を予測する (to predict trends)
- 流行の変遷 (transition of trends)
- 流行に敏感な消費者 (trend-sensitive consumers)
Daily Conversation
- 今、何が流行ってる? (What's popular now?)
- 流行りに乗ってみた (I tried the trend)
- それはもう流行ってないよ (That's not popular anymore)
- 流行りもの好き (someone who loves trendy things)
بدايات محادثة
"最近、あなたの国では何が流行っていますか? (What is popular in your country recently?)"
"流行のファッションを追うのは好きですか? (Do you like following fashion trends?)"
"今までで一番変だと思った流行は何ですか? (What is the weirdest trend you've seen so far?)"
"冬に風邪が流行るのを防ぐために、何をしていますか? (What do you do to prevent colds from spreading in winter?)"
"最近、SNSで流行っている言葉を知っていますか? (Do you know any words currently trending on SNS?)"
مواضيع للكتابة اليومية
今の流行についてどう思いますか?自分は流行に敏感な方だと思いますか? (What do you think about current trends? Do you think you are sensitive to them?)
子供の頃に流行っていた遊びやゲームについて書いてください。 (Write about the games or toys that were popular when you were a child.)
流行は社会にどのような影響を与えると思いますか? (What kind of influence do you think trends have on society?)
「流行遅れ」と言われることを気にしますか?その理由も教えてください。 (Do you care about being called 'out of fashion'? Please explain why.)
もし自分が新しい流行を作れるとしたら、どんなことを流行らせたいですか? (If you could create a new trend, what would you want to make popular?)
الأسئلة الشائعة
10 أسئلةGenerally, no. If you say 'Kare wa ryuukou desu,' it sounds like he is a temporary fashion trend. Use 'Kare wa ninki ga arimasu' (He is popular) instead. However, in very specific media contexts, you might hear 'ryuukou no hito' to mean the 'person of the hour,' but it's rare.
流行る (hayaru) is a native Japanese verb (kun-yomi) and is more casual. 流行する (ryuukou suru) is a Sino-Japanese verb (on-yomi) and is more formal. Use 'hayaru' with friends and 'ryuukou suru' in writing or formal speeches.
Usually, yes. The nuance of the 'flow' (流) suggests that it will eventually flow away. If something is popular for a very long time, it is better described as 'ninki' or 'teichaku shite iru' (established).
Yes, it is the standard word for the spread of diseases (epidemics). It can also be used for bad habits or social problems if they are spreading like a trend, though 'man'en' is more common for severe social ills.
It means 'buzzword' or 'trendy phrase'. Japan has an annual award for the most influential 流行語 of the year.
You can say '流行遅れ' (ryuukou-okure) as a noun, or '流行に遅れている' (ryuukou ni okurete iru) as a verb phrase.
A 'boom' is a type of 流行 that is very sudden and explosive. 'Ryuukou' is a broader term that covers all trends, whether they are slow or fast.
If it's a 'fad' technology, yes. But if it's the general adoption of something useful (like the internet), '普及' (fukyuu) is better.
It means 'trendy color'. It refers to the color that fashion designers and magazines are pushing for a specific season.
You can say '流行を作る' (ryuukou wo tsukuru) or '流行を生み出す' (ryuukou wo umidasu).
اختبر نفسك 180 أسئلة
Write a sentence in Japanese: 'This song is popular.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'kono uta' and 'hayatte imasu'.
Uses 'kono uta' and 'hayatte imasu'.
Write a sentence: 'I bought trendy clothes.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'ryuukou no fuku'.
Uses 'ryuukou no fuku'.
Write a sentence: 'I want to follow the trends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'ryuukou wo ou' + 'tai'.
Uses 'ryuukou wo ou' + 'tai'.
Write a sentence: 'The flu is spreading at school.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'ryuukou shite iru' for disease.
Uses 'ryuukou shite iru' for disease.
Write a sentence: 'She is sensitive to the latest trends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'saishin' and 'binkan'.
Uses 'saishin' and 'binkan'.
Write the kanji for 'ryuukou'.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Flow + Go.
Flow + Go.
Write a sentence: 'What is popular now?'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Standard question form.
Standard question form.
Write a sentence: 'That style is out of fashion.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'ryuukou-okure'.
Uses 'ryuukou-okure'.
Write a sentence: 'Don't be carried away by trends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'ryuukou ni nagasareru' in negative command.
Uses 'ryuukou ni nagasareru' in negative command.
Write a sentence: 'Analyze the social background of the trend.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'shakaiteki haikei' and 'bunseki'.
Uses 'shakaiteki haikei' and 'bunseki'.
Write 'popular song' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Noun + no + Noun.
Noun + no + Noun.
Write 'The shop is busy/popular.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Hayaru can mean a busy shop.
Hayaru can mean a busy shop.
Write 'I'm behind the trends.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'okurete iru'.
Uses 'okurete iru'.
Write 'Anticipate the next trend.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Uses 'sakidori suru'.
Uses 'sakidori suru'.
Write 'Signs of an epidemic were seen.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Passive form 'mirareta'.
Passive form 'mirareta'.
Write 'Trendy color' in Japanese.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Iro means color.
Iro means color.
Write 'A cold is going around.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Kaze means cold.
Kaze means cold.
Write 'Buzzword Award' in Kanji.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Ryuukou + go + tai + shou.
Ryuukou + go + tai + shou.
Write 'Trends repeat themselves.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Passive 'kurikaesareru'.
Passive 'kurikaesareru'.
Write 'Trends are transient.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Ichijiteki means temporary.
Ichijiteki means temporary.
Say: 'This hat is trendy.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'What is popular recently?'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'I'm not interested in trends.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'A cold is going around, so be careful.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'He is at the leading edge of fashion.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'I like popular songs.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'I bought a trendy shirt.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'I don't want to be behind the trends.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'Trends repeat themselves, don't they?'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'Trends reflect the collective consciousness.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'Is this popular?'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
Speech recognition is not supported in your browser. Try Chrome or Edge.
Speaking practice.
Say: 'That shop is very popular.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'Let's check the buzzwords.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'I want to anticipate the next trend.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Say: 'Don't be carried away by trends.'
Read this aloud:
قلت:
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Speaking practice.
Listen and choose the meaning: 'Ryuukou no iro'.
Listening practice.
Listen and choose the meaning: 'Kaze ga hayatte iru'.
Listening practice.
Listen and choose the meaning: 'Ryuukou-okure'.
Listening practice.
Listen and choose the meaning: 'Ryuukou ni sayou sarenai'.
Listening practice.
Listen and choose the meaning: 'Ryuukou no kizashi'.
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Hayatte imasu'. What does it mean?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou no fuku'. What is it?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou ni okureru'. What happens?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou wo sakidori suru'. What is it?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou no shouchou'. What is it?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou no uta'. What is it?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Nani ga hayatteru?'. What is asked?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou ni binkan'. What is the person?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou wa kurikaesareru'. What is the meaning?
Listening practice.
Listen: 'Ryuukou no saishantan'. Where are they?
Listening practice.
/ 180 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
流行 (ryuukou) essentially means 'movement through a population.' Whether it's a new fashion trend or a seasonal flu, it describes the state of being widespread at a specific moment. Example: '流行の服を着て、流行の風邪をひいた' (I wore trendy clothes and caught the cold that's going around).
- 流行 (ryuukou) means trend, fashion, or epidemic. It describes things that spread quickly through a group of people.
- It is used as a noun (流行), a Suru-verb (流行する), or a casual verb (流行る).
- In fashion, it refers to what is 'in style.' In health, it refers to a disease 'going around.'
- Commonly confused with 'ninki' (popular), but 'ryuukou' is more about the current flow and timing.
Fashion vs. Disease
Always check the subject. If it's a noun like 'kaze' (cold), it's an epidemic. If it's 'fuku' (clothes), it's fashion. The grammar is identical, so context is key.
Antonym Check
Use 'ryuukou-okure' to describe your old smartphone or clothes from five years ago. It's a very useful word for shopping!
Casual Fluency
Try saying 'Saikin nani ga hayatteru no?' to your Japanese friends. It's the perfect way to learn about new music or apps while practicing the word.
Buzzword Award
Look up 'Ryuukougo Taishou' on YouTube in December. It's a great way to see what was important in Japan that year.
مثال
若者の間で、このアプリが流行している。
محتوى ذو صلة
هذه الكلمة بلغات أخرى
قواعد ذات صلة
مزيد من كلمات culture
折衷
B2عملية أخذ أفضل الأجزاء من أفكار أو أساليب مختلفة ودمجها في توليفة متوازنة. 'هذا المبنى هو مزيج (折衷) بين العمارة التقليدية والحديثة.'
保全
A1صيانة أو حفظ نظام أو بيئة معينة.
娯楽
B1Activities that provide entertainment or relaxation. Relevant for IELTS Speaking Part 1 and 2 about hobbies and free time.
継承
B2وراثة أو نقل تقليد أو مهارة أو منصب. 'ورث مهارات سيده بدقة.'
現代
B1العصر الحالي أو الأوقات الحديثة، خاصة في مقابل الماضي البعيد.
象徴
B2شيء أو صورة تمثل فكرة مجردة أو قيمة.
伝承
B1عملية نقل القصص أو التقاليد أو المهارات من جيل إلى آخر.
固有
B2متأصل أو خاص بشخص أو مكان أو شيء معين.