起伏 en 30 segundos
- 起伏 (kifuku) means the rise and fall of land or life's events.
- It describes physical terrain and metaphorical ups and downs.
- Use it for landscapes, life stories, emotions, and plot dynamics.
- Think 'undulating' for land, 'turbulent' for life.
- Literal Meaning
- The word 起伏 (kifuku) is composed of two kanji: 起 (ki), meaning 'to rise' or 'to start,' and 伏 (fuku), meaning 'to lie down,' 'to bend,' or 'to hide.' Together, they evoke the image of something going up and down, or in and out of view.
- Terrain Description
- In its most literal sense, 起伏 refers to the physical contours of the land. When describing geography, mountains, or even a landscape seen from a distance, 起伏 captures the sense of unevenness, hills, valleys, and changes in elevation. It's the undulating quality of the earth's surface.
- Metaphorical Use: Life and Emotions
- Beyond the physical, 起伏 is frequently used metaphorically to describe the unpredictable nature of human experiences. This includes the ups and downs of life, such as periods of success followed by setbacks, or emotional states that fluctuate between happiness and sadness, excitement and despair. It speaks to the dynamic and often turbulent journey of existence.
- Narrative and Performance
- In storytelling, music, or drama, 起伏 can describe the pacing and emotional arc. A plot with significant 起伏 will have many twists, turns, moments of tension, and resolutions. Similarly, a piece of music with strong 起伏 will feature variations in volume, tempo, and melody, creating an engaging and dynamic listening experience.
- Usage Contexts
- You'll encounter 起伏 in travel writing describing scenic routes, in biographies discussing a person's challenging life, in literary reviews analyzing a novel's plot, and in discussions about economic trends or personal development. It's a versatile word for capturing change and variation.
The mountainous region had dramatic 起伏.
Her life was marked by significant 起伏.
The story's plot had many 起伏.
- Describing Landscape
- When discussing geography or travel, 起伏 is perfect for conveying the unevenness of terrain. Instead of just saying 'hilly,' you can use 起伏 to paint a more vivid picture of a landscape that rises and falls, creating a dynamic visual. This applies to natural formations like mountains and valleys, as well as man-made features like rolling farmlands or roads that wind through varied topography.
- Narrating Life Experiences
- The metaphorical use of 起伏 is very common when talking about personal journeys, careers, or historical events. It acknowledges that life isn't always smooth sailing. Periods of great success and happiness (the 'ups') are often followed by challenges, failures, or sadness (the 'downs'). Using 起伏 acknowledges this complexity and the natural ebb and flow of human existence.
- Analyzing Stories and Art
- In literary criticism or discussions about artistic works, 起伏 can describe the structure and emotional impact. A novel with significant 起伏 will keep the reader engaged through plot twists, suspense, and emotional depth. A musical piece with pronounced 起伏 will create a compelling auditory experience through variations in dynamics and tempo. This term helps articulate how a work of art unfolds and affects its audience.
- Expressing Emotional States
- While words like 'mood swings' exist, 起伏 offers a more nuanced way to describe fluctuating emotions. It can refer to a general pattern of emotional ups and downs over time, rather than a sudden, drastic shift. It implies a natural, perhaps even inevitable, variation in how one feels, often in response to external circumstances or internal reflections.
- Common Sentence Structures
- The word often appears with adjectives like 'dramatic' (劇的な), 'significant' (大きな), or 'gradual' (緩やかな) to qualify the nature of the rise and fall. It can also be used with verbs like 'to have' (〜がある), 'to experience' (〜を経験する), or 'to show' (〜を示す). For example, 「人生に多くの起伏があった」 (Jinsei ni ooku no kifuku ga atta - There were many ups and downs in life) or 「この地域の地形は起伏に富んでいる」 (Kono chiiki no chikei wa kifuku ni tonde iru - The topography of this region is rich in undulations).
The hikers appreciated the scenic 起伏 of the mountain trail.
His career experienced significant 起伏 before he found success.
The novel's plot, with its many 起伏, kept readers on the edge of their seats.
- Travel Documentaries and Guides
- When a documentary showcases a scenic mountain range, a winding coastal road, or even a vast desert landscape with dunes, the narrator might use 起伏 to describe the terrain. Travel writers often employ this word to give readers a sense of the physical challenges or visual beauty associated with a particular location. For instance, 'This national park is known for its dramatic 起伏, offering breathtaking views from its peaks.' This helps listeners and readers visualize the ups and downs of the land.
- Biographies and Historical Accounts
- In discussions about the lives of notable figures or the unfolding of historical events, 起伏 is frequently used to describe the non-linear nature of progress and setbacks. A historian might say, 'The nation's journey through the 20th century was characterized by significant 起伏, with periods of rapid industrialization followed by social unrest.' Similarly, a biography might detail the subject's career, noting the 'emotional 起伏' they experienced before achieving their goals. It's a way to acknowledge the complexities and challenges inherent in any long-term endeavor.
- Literary and Film Criticism
- When critics analyze the structure and impact of a novel, play, or film, 起伏 is a valuable term. They might comment on the plot's 起伏, meaning its twists, turns, moments of suspense, and resolutions. A review could state, 'The narrative arc of the protagonist exhibited considerable 起伏, making for a compelling viewing experience.' This helps articulate how the story engages the audience emotionally and intellectually.
- Economic and Market Analysis
- In news reports or financial discussions, the stock market's performance or economic indicators are often described using 起伏. An analyst might say, 'The market showed significant 起伏 this quarter due to global uncertainties.' This conveys the volatility and unpredictability of financial trends, highlighting periods of gain and loss.
- Discussions on Personal Growth and Psychology
- In conversations about mental well-being or personal development, individuals might refer to the emotional 起伏 they experience. A therapist might explain, 'It's normal to experience emotional 起伏 as you navigate life changes.' This acknowledges that emotional stability isn't constant and that fluctuations are a natural part of the human condition.
The documentary highlighted the dramatic 起伏 of the Andes mountains.
Her autobiography detailed the emotional 起伏 of her artistic journey.
The critic praised the novel's intricate plot 起伏.
- Confusing Literal and Metaphorical Use
- Learners might overuse 起伏 in situations where a simpler word would suffice, or they might struggle to differentiate between its literal meaning (terrain) and its metaphorical meaning (life events, emotions). For example, using 起伏 to describe a very minor change in mood might sound overly dramatic or unnatural. It's best reserved for significant or noticeable variations.
- Overuse in Casual Conversation
- While 起伏 is a rich word, it's not typically used in very casual, everyday conversation to describe minor fluctuations. If you're just talking about feeling a little sad one day and a little happy the next, simpler Japanese expressions for mood changes would be more appropriate. 起伏 implies a more substantial or noticeable pattern of ups and downs.
- Incorrectly Applying it to Static Situations
- 起伏 inherently describes change, variation, or movement. Using it to describe something that is consistently flat or unchanging would be incorrect. For instance, you wouldn't say a perfectly flat desert has 起伏. You would use it to describe a desert with dunes that rise and fall.
- Grammatical Misplacement
- Like any noun, 起伏 needs to be placed correctly within a sentence. Common errors might involve using it as a verb or adjective, or failing to use appropriate particles like が (ga) or を (o) when it functions as the subject or object. For example, saying 「人生が起伏する」 (Jinsei ga kifuku suru - Life rises and falls) is grammatically awkward; it's better to say 「人生に起伏がある」 (Jinsei ni kifuku ga aru - There are ups and downs in life).
- Ignoring Nuance with Adjectives
- While 起伏 itself means ups and downs, the *degree* of these ups and downs is often important. Failing to use modifiers like 'dramatic' (劇的な), 'significant' (大きな), or 'slight' (わずかな) can lead to a less precise description. A landscape might have gentle 起伏, while a person's life might have dramatic 起伏. Omitting these qualifiers can make the description vague.
Incorrect: His mood 起伏s a lot.
Correct: His mood has significant 起伏.
Incorrect: The flat road had 起伏.
- 起伏 (Kifuku) vs. 波 (Nami)
- 波 (nami) literally means 'wave' and is often used metaphorically for fluctuations, especially in trends, economics, or emotions. While both can describe ups and downs, 波 often suggests a more rhythmic or cyclical pattern, like waves on the sea or economic cycles. 起伏 can be more about general unevenness or variation, whether rhythmic or not. For example, stock market 起伏 (kifuku) is common, but stock market 波 (nami) is also used, often implying more frequent fluctuations.
- 起伏 (Kifuku) vs. 変動 (Hendō)
- 変動 (hendō) means 'change,' 'fluctuation,' or 'variation.' It's a more general term than 起伏. While 起伏 specifically implies an up-and-down movement or unevenness, 変動 can refer to any kind of change, including simple increases or decreases without necessarily going back down. For example, temperature 変動 (hendō) is common, as temperature can rise or fall. However, terrain 起伏 (kifuku) is more descriptive of hills and valleys than just general change.
- 起伏 (Kifuku) vs. 浮き沈み (Ukijizumi)
- 浮き沈み (ukijizumi) is a direct idiom for 'ups and downs,' particularly in life, career, or emotions. It is very similar in meaning to the metaphorical use of 起伏. 浮き沈み literally means 'floating and sinking,' evoking a sense of instability and constant change. While 起伏 can be used for terrain, 浮き沈み is almost exclusively metaphorical. For example, 'His career had its 浮き沈み' is a very natural expression, as is 'The life of an artist is full of 起伏.' The choice often comes down to stylistic preference, with 浮き沈み being slightly more colloquial and idiomatic.
- 起伏 (Kifuku) vs. 起伏に富む (Kifuku ni tomu)
- 起伏に富む (kifuku ni tomu) is a common phrase that means 'to be rich in undulations' or 'to be full of ups and downs.' It's not a separate word but an expansion of 起伏, specifically used to describe something that has a lot of these variations. For example, you might say a region's terrain has 起伏 (kifuku), but you would more likely say it is 起伏に富む (kifuku ni tomu) to emphasize the abundance of these features. Similarly, a life or story can be described as 起伏に富む.
- 起伏 (Kifuku) vs. 起伏がない (Kifuku ga nai)
- 起伏がない (kifuku ga nai) is the direct opposite, meaning 'without ups and downs' or 'flat.' This is used to describe terrain that is level or a life/situation that is stable and uneventful. For example, 'The plains had no 起伏' (平野には起伏がなかった - Heiya ni wa kifuku ga nakatta). This phrase is crucial for understanding the concept of 起伏 by its absence.
The stock market showed significant 起伏 last year.
The stock market showed significant 波 last year.
Her life was full of 浮き沈み.
The region's terrain is rich in 起伏に富む.
The plains had no 起伏.
How Formal Is It?
Dato curioso
The kanji 伏 (fuku) itself visually depicts a person (人) lying down (a stroke representing the body) with a lid or cover (the top part) over them, suggesting being hidden or subdued. This imagery adds a layer to the idea of 'falling' or 'going down' within the word 起伏.
Guía de pronunciación
- Pronouncing the final 'u' too strongly.
- Incorrectly stressing the first syllable.
- Not devoicing or shortening the final 'u' sound, making it sound like 'koo' instead of a quick 'ku'.
Nivel de dificultad
Understanding 起伏 requires grasping both its literal meaning for terrain and its metaphorical application to abstract concepts like life, emotions, and narratives. Recognizing the context is key to accurate comprehension. Texts discussing geography, biographies, literature, or economics are likely to use this word.
Using 起伏 effectively in writing means choosing the right context (terrain vs. life events) and potentially modifying it with adjectives (dramatic, gentle) or phrases (起伏に富む). Overuse or misapplication can lead to unnatural phrasing.
When speaking, learners need to be mindful of the context to use 起伏 appropriately. It adds richness to descriptions but can sound overly formal or dramatic if used incorrectly in casual conversation.
Recognizing 起伏 in spoken Japanese requires an awareness of its dual meaning. Context is crucial for distinguishing between descriptions of landscapes and discussions of life experiences or plot points.
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Requisitos previos
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Avanzado
Gramática que debes saber
Using 'no' particle to connect nouns, indicating possession or description.
人生の起伏 (jinsei no kifuku) - The ups and downs of life. Here, 'jinsei' describes the type of 'kifuku'.
Using 'na' adjectives before nouns.
劇的な起伏 (geki teki na kifuku) - Dramatic ups and downs. 'Geki teki' is a na-adjective modifying 'kifuku'.
Using 'ga' particle as a subject marker.
感情が激しい (kanjō ga hageshii) - Emotions are intense. When describing the nature of 'kifuku', 'ga' is often used.
Using 'ni' particle with 'tomu' (to be rich in).
起伏に富む (kifuku ni tomu) - To be rich in undulations. The particle 'ni' indicates the quality or characteristic that something is rich in.
Using 'wa' particle for topic marking.
人生は起伏がある (jinsei wa kifuku ga aru) - Life has ups and downs. 'Wa' marks 'jinsei' as the topic being discussed.
Ejemplos por nivel
山は高いです。
The mountain is high.
Simple sentence structure.
道は平らです。
The road is flat.
Using the adjective 'flat'.
空は青いです。
The sky is blue.
Basic descriptive sentence.
元気ですか？
How are you?
Common greeting.
ありがとう。
Thank you.
Basic expression of gratitude.
はい、そうです。
Yes, that's right.
Affirmative response.
いいえ、違います。
No, that's wrong.
Negative response.
これは何ですか？
What is this?
Asking for identification.
この公園は坂が多いです。
This park has many slopes.
Using '多い' (many) to describe slopes.
彼の話はいつも面白いです。
His stories are always interesting.
Using adverbs like 'always'.
気分が少し落ち込んでいます。
I'm feeling a little down.
Expressing a low mood.
最近、仕事が忙しいです。
Recently, work has been busy.
Using '最近' (recently) and '忙しい' (busy).
週末は友達と遊びました。
I played with friends on the weekend.
Past tense verb conjugation.
明日は晴れるでしょう。
It will probably be sunny tomorrow.
Using 'でしょう' for probability.
この本はとても感動的です。
This book is very moving.
Using '感動的' (moving).
道が混んでいますね。
The road is crowded, isn't it?
Using '混む' (to be crowded).
この地域の地形は、緩やかな起伏が多い。
The topography of this region has many gentle undulations.
Using '起伏' to describe terrain and adding an adjective '緩やかな' (gentle).
彼の人生は、成功と失敗の起伏に富んでいた。
His life was rich with the ups and downs of success and failure.
Metaphorical use of '起伏' with '富んでいた' (was rich with).
物語の展開には、予想外の起伏があった。
The development of the story had unexpected twists and turns.
Using '起伏' for plot development.
彼女の感情は、最近大きな起伏を見せている。
Her emotions have shown significant ups and downs recently.
Using '大きな' (significant) with '起伏' for emotions.
経済の起伏が、企業の経営に影響を与えている。
The fluctuations in the economy are affecting the management of companies.
'起伏' used for economic trends.
この楽曲は、ダイナミックな起伏が特徴だ。
This musical piece is characterized by its dynamic variations.
'起伏' describing music.
長年の交渉は、多くの起伏を経て合意に至った。
The years of negotiation reached an agreement after many twists and turns.
'起伏' used for a complex process.
この辺りの道は、起伏が激しいので運転には注意が必要です。
The roads around here have steep inclines, so caution is needed when driving.
Using '激しい' (intense) with '起伏' for roads.
その小説は、登場人物たちの複雑な心理的起伏を巧みに描いている。
The novel skillfully depicts the complex psychological fluctuations of its characters.
Using '心理的起伏' (psychological ups and downs) and '巧みに描いている' (skillfully depicts).
長年にわたる研究は、数々の起伏を経験したが、ついに画期的な発見に至った。
The research, spanning many years, experienced numerous ups and downs before finally reaching a groundbreaking discovery.
'数々の起伏' (numerous ups and downs) and '画期的な発見' (groundbreaking discovery).
この地域の地形は、太古からの地殻変動による顕著な起伏を見せている。
The topography of this region exhibits remarkable undulations due to ancient crustal movements.
'顕著な起伏' (remarkable undulations) and geological context.
政治情勢の激しい起伏は、国際社会に不確実性をもたらした。
The intense fluctuations in the political situation brought uncertainty to the international community.
'激しい起伏' (intense fluctuations) applied to politics.
彼のキャリアは、栄光と挫折の起伏を繰り返しながら、最終的に大きな成功を収めた。
His career, while repeating cycles of glory and setbacks, ultimately achieved great success.
'栄光と挫折の起伏' (ups and downs of glory and setbacks).
このドキュメンタリーは、自然災害がもたらす景観の起伏を克明に記録している。
This documentary meticulously records the changes in landscape caused by natural disasters.
'景観の起伏' (changes in landscape) and '克明に記録している' (meticulously records).
人生における精神的な起伏に対処する方法を学ぶことは、自己成長に不可欠である。
Learning how to cope with the emotional fluctuations in life is essential for personal growth.
'精神的な起伏' (emotional fluctuations) and connection to self-growth.
この音楽作品の構成は、静寂と激しさの鮮やかな起伏によって特徴づけられる。
The composition of this musical work is characterized by vivid contrasts between silence and intensity.
'鮮やかな起伏' (vivid contrasts/fluctuations) in music.
その地域特有の複雑な地質構造は、地形に顕著な起伏をもたらしている。
The region's unique and complex geological structure results in significant topographical undulations.
Advanced vocabulary for geology and detailed description.
彼の回想録は、激動の時代における個人の精神的葛藤と、それに伴う感情の起伏を克明に綴っている。
His memoirs meticulously chronicle the individual's psychological struggles during a turbulent era and the accompanying emotional fluctuations.
Focus on '精神的葛藤' (psychological struggles) and detailed emotional description.
物語の構造は、読者の感情を揺さぶる巧みな起伏によって、読書体験を一層深めている。
The narrative structure, through skillful twists and turns that stir the reader's emotions, profoundly deepens the reading experience.
Emphasis on reader experience and narrative technique.
経済政策の度重なる変更は、市場に予測不能な起伏を生じさせ、投資家心理を不安定にした。
The repeated changes in economic policy have created unpredictable fluctuations in the market, destabilizing investor sentiment.
Focus on unpredictability and psychological impact in economics.
この交響曲は、静謐な楽想と情熱的なクライマックスとの劇的な起伏が、聴衆を魅了してやまない。
This symphony captivates its audience with dramatic contrasts between serene musical ideas and passionate climaxes.
Sophisticated musical terminology and description of contrast.
歴史の流れは、しばしば権力闘争や社会変革による複雑な起伏を経ながら、現代へと続いている。
The course of history, often through complex fluctuations driven by power struggles and social transformations, continues into the present day.
Broad historical perspective and complex causal relationships.
作家は、登場人物の内面における目まぐるしい起伏を描写することで、人間存在の多層性を浮き彫りにする。
By depicting the dizzying fluctuations within characters' inner lives, the author illuminates the multi-layered nature of human existence.
Focus on inner complexity and authorial intent.
その舞台芸術は、光と影、音と沈黙の鮮烈な起伏を駆使し、観客に強烈な印象を与えた。
The stage performance utilized vivid contrasts of light and shadow, sound and silence, leaving a powerful impression on the audience.
Artistic expression using sensory contrasts.
その地域の景観は、数百万年にわたる地殻変動と侵食作用の遺物であり、その壮大な起伏は自然の力の偉大さを物語っている。
The region's landscape is a testament to millions of years of tectonic activity and erosion, its majestic undulations narrating the grandeur of natural forces.
Highly academic and descriptive language, emphasizing geological processes and their monumental impact.
彼の芸術的探求は、創造の頂点と絶望の淵との間の絶え間ない起伏の連続であり、その過程で彼は自己の表現の限界を押し広げていった。
His artistic quest was a continuous series of oscillations between pinnacles of creation and abysses of despair, a process through which he pushed the boundaries of his self-expression.
Philosophical and abstract language describing an artist's journey and existential exploration.
物語の構造は、読者の期待を巧みに裏切り、意表を突く展開の起伏を織り交ぜることで、読書体験に類例のない深みと複雑さをもたらしている。
The narrative's structure, by weaving in twists and turns that cunningly subvert reader expectations and surprise them, bestows unparalleled depth and complexity upon the reading experience.
Focus on sophisticated literary analysis, reader psychology, and narrative manipulation.
グローバル経済の予測不能な起伏は、国家間のパワーバランスの変動を加速させ、新たな地政学的秩序の形成を促している。
The unpredictable oscillations of the global economy are accelerating shifts in the balance of power between nations, fostering the formation of a new geopolitical order.
Advanced discussion of global economics, geopolitics, and systemic change.
そのオペラは、人間の魂の極端な感情の起伏を、音楽的言語のあらゆる表現力を駆使して描き出し、聴衆を歓喜と悲嘆の渦へと引き込む。
The opera, employing the full expressive power of its musical language, portrays the extreme emotional fluctuations of the human soul, drawing the audience into a vortex of ecstasy and sorrow.
Highly evocative language describing operatic art and its emotional impact.
歴史叙述における解釈の起伏は、過去の出来事に対する我々の理解が、時代精神や社会的価値観によって絶えず再構築されることを示唆している。
The oscillations in the interpretation of historical narratives suggest that our understanding of past events is perpetually reconstructed by the zeitgeist and prevailing social values.
Philosophical reflection on historiography and the subjectivity of historical understanding.
作家は、登場人物の意識における、しばしば矛盾に満ちた、目まぐるしい起伏を精緻に描写することで、人間心理の深淵と複雑性を露呈させる。
By meticulously depicting the often contradictory and dizzying fluctuations within characters' consciousness, the author reveals the profundity and complexity of the human psyche.
In-depth psychological analysis and nuanced portrayal of consciousness.
その前衛的な演劇は、現実と幻想、存在と不在との間の境界線を曖昧にする、大胆な視覚的・聴覚的起伏によって観客の知覚を揺さぶる。
The avant-garde play shakes the audience's perception through bold visual and auditory oscillations that blur the lines between reality and illusion, presence and absence.
Exploration of abstract concepts and sensory manipulation in performance art.
Sinónimos
Antónimos
Colocaciones comunes
Frases Comunes
— There are ups and downs; it's not flat or monotonous.
人生には起伏がある。(Jinsei ni wa kifuku ga aru. - Life has its ups and downs.)
— To be rich in undulations; to have many ups and downs.
この小説は起伏に富んでいる。(Kono shōsetsu wa kifuku ni tonde iru. - This novel is rich in ups and downs.)
— Intense ups and downs; dramatic fluctuations.
その株価は起伏が激しい。(Sono kabuka wa kifuku ga hageshii. - That stock price has intense fluctuations.)
— Gentle ups and downs; mild variations.
丘陵地帯は起伏が緩やかだ。(Kyūryōchitai wa kifuku ga yuruyaka da. - The hilly area has gentle undulations.)
— Without ups and downs; flat, monotonous, stable.
彼の人生は起伏がないように見える。(Kare no jinsei wa kifuku ga nai yō ni mieru. - His life seems to have no ups and downs.)
— The undulations or contours of the terrain.
地図には地形の起伏が描かれている。(Chizu ni wa chikei no kifuku ga egakarete iru. - The map depicts the undulations of the terrain.)
— Emotional fluctuations or mood swings.
彼女は感情の起伏が激しい。(Kanojo wa kanjō no kifuku ga hageshii. - She has intense emotional fluctuations.)
— The ups and downs of life; life's journey.
人生の起伏は誰にでもある。(Jinsei no kifuku wa dare ni demo aru. - Everyone has the ups and downs of life.)
— The twists and turns of a story; plot development.
その映画は物語の起伏が面白い。(Sono eiga wa monogatari no kifuku ga omoshiroi. - That movie's plot twists are interesting.)
— Economic fluctuations or volatility.
市場は経済の起伏に注意している。(Shijō wa keizai no kifuku ni chūi shite iru. - The market is paying attention to economic fluctuations.)
Se confunde a menudo con
While both can mean fluctuations, 波 often implies a more rhythmic or wave-like pattern, especially for trends or emotions, whereas 起伏 can be more about general unevenness or dramatic changes. 起伏 is also used for terrain, which 波 is not.
変動 is a general term for 'change' or 'fluctuation.' 起伏 specifically implies an up-and-down movement or unevenness. You can have 変動 in temperature, but you describe terrain with 起伏.
平坦 means 'flat' or 'level,' which is the direct opposite of the unevenness described by 起伏. You would use 起伏 to describe terrain that is *not* 平坦.
Modismos y expresiones
— This idiom literally means 'there are mountains and valleys,' and it's a very common and direct way to express the ups and downs of life, similar to the metaphorical use of 起伏.
人生は山あり谷ありだ。(Jinsei wa yama ari tani ari da. - Life has its mountains and valleys (ups and downs).)
Common, colloquial— Literally 'floating and sinking,' this idiom specifically refers to the ups and downs of life, career, or emotions. It's very close in meaning to the metaphorical use of 起伏.
彼のキャリアには浮き沈みが多かった。(Kare no kyaria ni wa ukijizumi ga ookatta. - His career had many ups and downs.)
Common, idiomatic— Literally 'fall down seven times, get up eight,' this proverb emphasizes resilience and perseverance through difficulties, reflecting the 'downs' part of 起伏 and the determination to overcome them.
彼女は七転び八起きの精神で困難を乗り越えた。(Kanojo wa nanakorobi yaoki no seishin de konnan o norikoeta. - She overcame difficulties with the spirit of 'fall seven times, rise eight'.)
Proverbial, inspirational— Literally 'to ride the waves,' this idiom means to go with the flow, to take advantage of opportunities, or to adapt to changing circumstances. It relates to navigating the 'ups' or favorable moments within the broader context of life's 起伏.
時代の波に乗ることが大切だ。(Jidai no nami ni noru koto ga taisetsu da. - It's important to ride the waves of the times.)
Idiomatic, adaptable— Literally 'smooth sailing with a full sail,' this idiom describes a situation of complete success and ease, representing the ideal 'up' phase or a period without the 'downs' implied by 起伏.
彼のキャリアは順風満帆だった。(Kare no kyaria wa junpū manpan datta. - His career was smooth sailing.)
Idiomatic, positive— Literally 'groping in the dark,' this idiom describes searching for a solution or direction without clear guidance, reflecting a period of uncertainty and struggle, often part of the 'downs' in life's 起伏.
新しい事業は暗中模索の状態だ。(Atarashii jigyō wa anchū mosaku no jōtai da. - The new business is in a state of groping in the dark.)
Idiomatic, challenging— To be alternately happy and anxious; to fluctuate between joy and sorrow. This idiom directly describes the rapid emotional 起伏 one might experience.
試合の結果に一喜一憂する。(Shiai no kekka ni ikki ichiyū suru. - To be alternately happy and anxious about the match results.)
Idiomatic, emotional— Literally 'plow and sow on sunny days, read on rainy days.' This proverb describes a simple, self-sufficient life, implicitly accepting the natural variations (like weather) without excessive drama, a contrast to a life full of dramatic 起伏.
彼は晴耕雨読の生活を送っている。(Kare wa seikō udoku no seikatsu o okutte iru. - He leads a life of 'plow and sow, read on rainy days'.)
Proverbial, lifestyle— This idiom refers to the unpredictable nature of fortune, where a seemingly bad event might lead to a good outcome and vice versa. It highlights the inherent uncertainty and 'ups and downs' in life's larger narrative, similar to 起伏.
その出来事は塞翁が馬だった。(Sono dekigoto wa saiō ga uma datta. - That event was like the old man Sai's horse (a mixed blessing/unpredictable fortune).)
Idiomatic, philosophical— Literally 'flourishing and withering, growing and declining.' This idiom describes the rise and fall of families, businesses, or eras, capturing a grander scale of 起伏 over time.
歴史は栄枯盛衰の繰り返しだ。(Rekishi wa eiko seisui no kurikaeshi da. - History is a cycle of flourishing and decline.)
Idiomatic, historicalFácil de confundir
Both 起伏 and 波 can describe fluctuations and ups and downs.
波 often suggests a more cyclical or rhythmic pattern, like waves, commonly used for trends, economics, or emotions. 起伏 is broader, encompassing general unevenness, dramatic changes, and importantly, the physical contours of land. While you can talk about the '波' of the stock market, you describe a mountain range's '起伏'.
株価の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>波</mark>は激しいが、この地域の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>もまた特徴的だ。(Kabuka no <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>nami</mark> wa hageshii ga, kono chiiki no <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> mo mata tokuchōteki da. - The stock market's waves are intense, but the undulations of this region are also characteristic.)
Both terms relate to change and variation.
変動 is a general term for any kind of change, increase, decrease, or variation. 起伏 specifically denotes an up-and-down movement, unevenness, or rise and fall. For example, temperature can have 変動 (rise and fall), but terrain has 起伏 (hills and valleys). You wouldn't describe a flat road as having 変動, but you might say it has no 起伏.
気温の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>変動</mark>は大きいが、この山の<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>は緩やかだ。(Kion no <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>hendō</mark> wa ookii ga, kono yama no <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> wa yuruyaka da. - Temperature fluctuations are large, but the undulations of this mountain are gentle.)
浮き沈み is an idiom that means 'ups and downs,' very similar to the metaphorical use of 起伏.
浮き沈み is almost exclusively used metaphorically for life experiences, career, or emotions. 起伏, however, has a dual meaning: it can refer to both physical terrain and metaphorical ups and downs. While interchangeable in many metaphorical contexts, 起伏 is more versatile as it also applies to landscapes.
彼の人生は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>浮き沈み</mark>が多かったが、その<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>が彼を強くした。(Kare no jinsei wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>ukijizumi</mark> ga ookatta ga, sono <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> ga kare o tsuyoku shita. - His life had many ups and downs, and those fluctuations made him strong.)
平坦 means 'flat' or 'level,' which is the direct opposite of the concept of 起伏.
起伏 describes unevenness, hills, and valleys. 平坦 describes a surface that is completely flat and without any variation in elevation. You would use 起伏 to describe a landscape that is *not* 平坦, or the absence of 起伏 would mean it is 平坦.
この地域は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>に富んでいるが、あちらの平野は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>平坦</mark>だ。(Kono chiiki wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> ni tonde iru ga, achira no heiya wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>heitan</mark> da. - This region is rich in undulations, but that plain is flat.)
Both terms can describe a lack of excitement or variation.
単調 means monotonous, dull, or uneventful, describing a lack of excitement or variety. 起伏 describes the presence of variation, specifically ups and downs. A life with 起伏 is the opposite of a 単調 life. A 単調 sound has no variation in pitch or volume, while music with 起伏 has dynamic changes.
彼の話し方は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>単調</mark>で、<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>がない。(Kare no hanashikata wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>tanchō</mark> de, <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> ga nai. - His way of speaking is monotonous and lacks variation.)
Patrones de oraciones
[Noun] は 起伏 が あります。
この道は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>があります。(Kono michi wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> ga arimasu. - This road has ups and downs.)
[Noun] は 起伏 が ありません。
あの平野は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏</mark>がありません。(Ano heiya wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku</mark> ga arimasen. - That plain has no undulations.)
[Noun] の 起伏 は [Description] です。
人生<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>の</mark>起伏は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>激しい</mark>です。(Jinsei <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>no</mark> kifuku wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>hageshii</mark> desu. - The ups and downs of life are intense.)
[Noun] は [Adjective] 起伏 に 富んでいます。
この地域は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>起伏に富んだ</mark>地形をしています。(Kono chiiki wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>kifuku ni tonda</mark> chikei o shite imasu. - This region has a terrain rich in undulations.)
[Noun] は [Adjective] 起伏 を 見せています。
経済は<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>劇的な起伏</mark>を見せています。(Keizai wa <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>geki teki na kifuku</mark> o misete imasu. - The economy is showing dramatic fluctuations.)
[Noun] の [Adjective] 起伏 は [Effect] を もたらしました。
政治情勢<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>の</mark>激しい起伏は、国際社会に不確実性をもたらしました。(Seiji jōsei <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>no</mark> hageshii kifuku wa, kokusai shakai ni fukakujitsusei o motarashimashita. - The intense fluctuations in the political situation brought uncertainty to the international community.)
物語の[Noun] は、[Adjective] 起伏 によって [Result]。
物語<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>の</mark>展開は、巧みな起伏によって読者を引きつけます。(Monogatari <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>no</mark> tenkai wa, takumi na kifuku ni yotte dokusha o hikitsukemasu. - The story's development attracts readers through skillful twists and turns.)
[Noun] は、[Description] 起伏 を 描いています。
その小説は、登場人物の複雑な<mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>心理的起伏</mark>を描いています。(Sono shōsetsu wa, tōjō jinbutsu no fukuzatsu na <mark class='bg-emerald-200 dark:bg-emerald-800 px-0.5 rounded'>shinriteki kifuku</mark> o egaite imasu. - That novel depicts the complex psychological fluctuations of its characters.)
Familia de palabras
Sustantivos
Relacionado
Cómo usarlo
Common, especially in B1-C2 levels.
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Using 起伏 for minor, everyday mood changes.
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Using simpler expressions or acknowledging the minor nature of the change.
While 起伏 can describe emotional fluctuations, using it for very slight or everyday mood shifts can sound overly dramatic or unnatural. For instance, saying 'My mood has 起伏' might be less common than '気分がちょっと変わった' (kibun ga chotto kawatta - my mood changed a bit) in very casual talk. 起伏 implies more significant or noticeable variations.
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Applying 起伏 to completely flat surfaces.
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Using 起伏 to describe unevenness and using 平坦 (heitan) for flat surfaces.
起伏 inherently means unevenness, rise and fall. Describing a perfectly flat desert or a level road as having 起伏 is incorrect. In such cases, you would say it has no 起伏 (起伏がない - kifuku ga nai) or is 平坦 (heitan).
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Confusing its literal and metaphorical meanings without context.
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Using 起伏 for terrain when discussing geography, and for life/emotions/plots in other contexts.
Learners might use 起伏 inappropriately if they don't differentiate between its physical meaning (terrain) and its metaphorical meaning (life events, emotions, narrative). Understanding the surrounding words and topic is crucial.
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Using 起伏 as a verb or adjective.
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Using 起伏 as a noun, often with particles or in phrases like '起伏がある' or '起伏に富む'.
起伏 is primarily a noun. It's incorrect to use it directly as a verb (like 'to undulate') or an adjective. Instead, use related phrases like '起伏がある' (there are ups and downs) or '起伏に富む' (rich in ups and downs).
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Not qualifying the degree of 起伏.
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Using adjectives like 劇的な (dramatic), 緩やかな (gentle), or 激しい (intense) to specify the nature of the ups and downs.
Simply saying '起伏' can be vague. Describing the *type* of 起伏 (e.g., 'dramatic ups and downs' vs. 'gentle undulations') adds precision. Failing to do so can make the description less impactful or clear.
Consejos
Visualize the Concept
When you encounter 起伏, immediately picture a roller coaster track or a mountain range. This visual connection will help you recall both the literal meaning (terrain) and the metaphorical meaning (ups and downs of life/emotions/stories).
Learn Related Phrases
Don't just learn 起伏 in isolation. Learn common phrases like '起伏に富む' (rich in undulations/ups and downs), '起伏がある' (there are ups and downs), and '感情の起伏' (emotional fluctuations) to use it more effectively.
Stress the Second Syllable
Remember that the stress in 起伏 (kifuku) falls on the second syllable: ki-FU-ku. Pay attention to the short, often devoiced final 'u' sound.
起伏 vs. 波 vs. 変動
起伏 is for unevenness/rise-and-fall (terrain, life). 波 (nami) is more like rhythmic 'waves' (trends, moods). 変動 (hendō) is general 'change' or 'fluctuation' (any kind).
Describe Your Experiences
Try describing your commute, your favorite movie's plot, or a challenging period in your life using 起伏. This active recall will solidify your understanding and usage.
Embrace the Flow
Japanese culture often embraces the natural flow of change and impermanence. 起伏 fits well with this worldview, acknowledging that life and nature are rarely static but are instead characterized by movement and variation.
Avoid Overuse in Casual Talk
While 起伏 is a great word, it can sound a bit formal or dramatic in very casual conversations about minor mood shifts. For those, simpler expressions are often preferred.
Opposites Show Meaning
Understanding the opposites like 平坦 (heitan - flat) for terrain, or 安定 (antei - stable) and 単調 (tanchō - monotonous) for life, helps clarify what 起伏 truly signifies by contrast.
Sentence Building
Construct sentences using 起伏 in different contexts: describing a landscape, a person's life, a story's plot, and emotional changes. This active practice is crucial for mastery.
Memorízalo
Mnemotecnia
Imagine a roller coaster (起伏). It goes UP (起) and then DOWN (伏). The track has many ups and downs, just like life or a story. Think of the 'ki' sound like 'key' to unlock the 'up' part, and 'fu' like 'fall' for the 'down' part.
Asociación visual
Picture a mountain range with sharp peaks and deep valleys. The jagged line represents the 'ups' (起) and 'downs' (伏) of the terrain. Alternatively, visualize a graph showing a stock market's dramatic rise and fall, or a person experiencing extreme joy and sorrow.
Word Web
Desafío
Try describing your commute to work using 起伏. Does it have many 起伏? Or is it relatively flat? Then, think about a favorite movie or book and describe its plot using 起伏. Does it have dramatic 起伏, or are they more gentle?
Origen de la palabra
The word 起伏 (kifuku) is a compound word derived from two kanji: 起 (ki) and 伏 (fuku). This type of compound, using two kanji to create a new meaning, is very common in Japanese, often borrowing or adapting concepts from Chinese. The combination directly reflects the idea of 'rising' and 'falling' or 'lying down'.
Significado original: 起 (ki) means 'to rise,' 'to get up,' 'to start.' 伏 (fuku) means 'to lie down,' 'to bend down,' 'to hide oneself.' Together, they literally convey the action of rising and then falling or lying down, forming the basis for the concept of unevenness or fluctuation.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters and compound structures)Contexto cultural
When discussing life's 起伏, it's important to be sensitive. While it acknowledges challenges, it's often used in a neutral or even positive light, implying resilience and the richness that comes from experiencing a full range of life events. Avoid using it lightly when someone is going through a particularly difficult time, unless it's in a context of empathy and shared understanding of life's complexities.
In English, we use phrases like 'ups and downs,' 'rollercoaster of emotions,' 'undulating terrain,' or 'twists and turns' to convey similar meanings. The Japanese word 起伏 neatly encapsulates these diverse concepts into a single, versatile term.
Practica en la vida real
Contextos reales
Describing geographical features.
- 地形の起伏 (chikei no kifuku)
- 緩やかな起伏 (yuruyaka na kifuku)
- 起伏に富む (kifuku ni tomu)
Discussing personal life experiences.
- 人生の起伏 (jinsei no kifuku)
- 起伏がある (kifuku ga aru)
- 浮き沈み (ukijizumi)
Analyzing literary or cinematic plots.
- 物語の起伏 (monogatari no kifuku)
- 展開の起伏 (tenkai no kifuku)
- 巧みな起伏 (takumi na kifuku)
Talking about emotional states.
- 感情の起伏 (kanjō no kifuku)
- 激しい起伏 (hageshii kifuku)
- 一喜一憂 (ikki ichiyū)
Economic or market analysis.
- 経済の起伏 (keizai no kifuku)
- 市場の起伏 (shijō no kifuku)
- 予測不能な起伏 (yosoku funō na kifuku)
Inicios de conversación
"Have you ever visited a place with dramatic topographical 起伏?"
"How do you cope with the emotional 起伏 in your life?"
"What's a movie or book you enjoyed that had particularly interesting plot 起伏?"
"Do you think life is more interesting with its 起伏, or would you prefer a steady path?"
"How does the economic 起伏 in your country affect daily life?"
Temas para diario
Describe a time in your life that felt like a series of significant 起伏. What did you learn from those experiences?
Imagine you are describing a fictional landscape. Use the word 起伏 to detail its unique features.
Reflect on your emotional journey over the past year. Have there been notable 起伏? How did you navigate them?
Choose a piece of music or art that you feel has strong 起伏. Explain how these variations affect your perception.
Consider the concept of 'flatness' versus 'undulation' in life. Which do you find more appealing, and why? Use 起伏 in your answer.
Preguntas frecuentes
10 preguntasNo, 起伏 has a very common metaphorical use. It is frequently used to describe the ups and downs of life, career, emotions, or even the twists and turns in a story or plot. So, while it *can* mean terrain, it often means much more.
Both can refer to fluctuations. 波 (wave) often implies a more rhythmic or cyclical pattern, like waves on the sea or economic cycles. 起伏 is broader; it can describe general unevenness, dramatic changes, and importantly, the physical contours of land. For example, you'd describe a mountain range's 起伏, but you might talk about the 波 of the stock market or a person's emotional 波.
Yes, you can, but it's often used for more significant or noticeable emotional fluctuations. If you're feeling slightly happy one moment and slightly sad the next, simpler phrases might be more natural. However, if you experience considerable highs and lows, saying '感情の起伏が激しい' (kanjō no kifuku ga hageshii - intense emotional fluctuations) is appropriate.
起伏 itself is neutral. It simply describes variation or change. Whether it's perceived as positive or negative depends on the context. Dramatic 起伏 in a story can be exciting, while intense 起伏 in life might be challenging. The phrase '起伏に富む' (rich in ups and downs) often suggests a more interesting or full life.
There are several ways. For life experiences, 浮き沈み (ukijizumi) is a common idiom. For more general fluctuations, 波 (nami) or 変動 (hendō) can be used. 起伏 (kifuku) is also used metaphorically, especially when emphasizing the dynamic nature of these changes or when comparing it to its literal meaning of terrain.
Yes, very common ones include '人生の起伏' (jinsei no kifuku - life's ups and downs), '感情の起伏' (kanjō no kifuku - emotional fluctuations), '地形の起伏' (chikei no kifuku - topographical undulation), and '起伏に富む' (kifuku ni tomu - rich in ups and downs). You'll also hear '起伏がある' (kifuku ga aru - there are ups and downs) and '起伏が激しい' (kifuku ga hageshii - intense ups and downs).
Absolutely. In music, 起伏 refers to the dynamic variations in volume, tempo, and intensity. A piece of music with significant 起伏 will have dramatic contrasts, making it more engaging for the listener.
The direct opposite, especially for terrain, is 平坦 (heitan), meaning flat or level. For life or situations, opposites could be 安定 (antei - stability) or 単調 (tanchō - monotonous, uneventful).
It's a B2 level word, so it requires some understanding of context. The main challenge is distinguishing between its literal (terrain) and metaphorical (life, emotions, plot) uses, and applying it appropriately without sounding too formal or dramatic in casual settings.
You'll frequently encounter it in descriptions of landscapes (travelogues, geography), analyses of literature and film (plot, character development), discussions about personal life journeys (biographies, self-help), and economic or political news.
Ponte a prueba 10 preguntas
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Summary
起伏 (kifuku) is a versatile word denoting both the physical undulations of terrain and the metaphorical ups and downs encountered in life, emotions, or narratives, capturing the essence of change and variation.
- 起伏 (kifuku) means the rise and fall of land or life's events.
- It describes physical terrain and metaphorical ups and downs.
- Use it for landscapes, life stories, emotions, and plot dynamics.
- Think 'undulating' for land, 'turbulent' for life.
Visualize the Concept
When you encounter 起伏, immediately picture a roller coaster track or a mountain range. This visual connection will help you recall both the literal meaning (terrain) and the metaphorical meaning (ups and downs of life/emotions/stories).
Context is Key
Always consider the context. If someone is talking about hiking, they mean terrain. If they are discussing their career or a novel, they mean metaphorical ups and downs. Using it correctly shows a nuanced understanding of Japanese.
Learn Related Phrases
Don't just learn 起伏 in isolation. Learn common phrases like '起伏に富む' (rich in undulations/ups and downs), '起伏がある' (there are ups and downs), and '感情の起伏' (emotional fluctuations) to use it more effectively.
Stress the Second Syllable
Remember that the stress in 起伏 (kifuku) falls on the second syllable: ki-FU-ku. Pay attention to the short, often devoiced final 'u' sound.
Ejemplo
この辺りは起伏が激しく、自転車で走るのは大変だ。
Contenido relacionado
Esta palabra en otros idiomas
Más palabras de geography
〜を越えて
B1Cruzar una frontera o superar un obstáculo.
〜を横切って
A2Cruzar (una calle, un área). 'El gato corrió a través de la calle.' / 'Él atravesó el parque.'
〜沿って
A2Caminamos a lo largo de la playa al atardecer.
〜に沿って
A2A lo largo de (camino, río); de acuerdo con (plan, reglas).
周りに
A2Hay muchos árboles alrededor de la casa.
〜のそばに
A2Cerca de, al lado de. Indica una proximidad física o emocional cercana.
〜の間に
A2Entre dos cosas o durante un periodo de tiempo.
〜の向こうに
A2Más allá de; al otro lado de.
埋める
A2Enterrar algo en el suelo o llenar un espacio vacío.
冷気
A2El aire frío que sale del refrigerador es una sensación de 冷気.
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