At the A1 level, you primarily learn the word 'yuki' for snow. However, introducing 'kousetsu' helps you recognize it in weather reports. At this stage, just think of 'kousetsu' as a formal way to say 'snow falling.' You will see it on TV or weather apps. You don't need to use it in your own speaking yet, but recognizing the kanji for 'descend' (降) and 'snow' (雪) is a great step forward. Focus on the sentence 'Kousetsu ga arimasu' (There is snowfall). This is the simplest way to use the word. It is a noun, so it behaves like other objects you've learned. In Japan, snow is very important, so even at A1, knowing the formal terms for weather can be very helpful for daily survival, such as understanding if your train might be late. Remember: Yuki = general snow, Kousetsu = snowfall event.
At the A2 level, you can start to understand how 'kousetsu' is used in compound words. You might see 'kousetsu-ryou' (snowfall amount) on a news ticker. You should be able to understand that 'kousetsu no tame' means 'because of snowfall.' This is a common structure in announcements. At this level, you are moving beyond simple descriptions and starting to understand cause and effect. If a teacher or a news reporter uses 'kousetsu,' they are being professional. You can stick to 'yuki ga furu' for your own conversations, but try to identify 'kousetsu' in written signs at train stations. Understanding the kanji components (降 and 雪) will also help you learn other words like 'kou-u' (rainfall) later. It's about building a foundation for more technical Japanese.
At the B1 level, you should be able to use 'kousetsu' in semi-formal writing or when discussing the weather in a more structured way. You understand the difference between 'kousetsu' (the act of falling) and 'sekisetsu' (the accumulation on the ground). This distinction is important for accurately describing winter conditions. You might use 'kousetsu' in a journal entry about a trip to a snowy region: 'Kousetsu no eikyou de, koutsuu ga midareta' (Due to the effects of snowfall, traffic was disrupted). You are now comfortable with the 'noun + particle' patterns that 'kousetsu' requires. You also begin to recognize the word in various media, from newspapers to weather apps, without needing a dictionary. This word is a bridge to more advanced academic and journalistic Japanese.
At the B2 level, you understand the register of 'kousetsu' perfectly. You know that using it in a casual chat with friends would sound slightly 'stiff' or 'robotic,' and you consciously choose 'yuki' instead. However, in a business meeting or a formal presentation about regional geography or logistics, you would use 'kousetsu' to maintain a professional tone. You are also familiar with related technical terms like 'gousetsu-chitai' (heavy snowfall zone) and 'kousetsu-kakuritsu' (snowfall probability). You can read and synthesize information from weather reports that use 'kousetsu' to describe complex weather patterns. Your understanding of the kanji '降' allows you to infer the meaning of related terms like 'kouka' (descending) or 'koufuku' (surrender), showing a deep linguistic connection.
At the C1 level, you can discuss the nuances of 'kousetsu' in the context of climate change or regional economics. You can analyze how 'nenkan kousetsuryou' (annual snowfall amount) affects the local agriculture or tourism industries in Japan. You understand the historical and cultural weight of snow in Japan and how formal terminology like 'kousetsu' is used to provide an objective distance in reporting. You can easily navigate government white papers or scientific articles that use 'kousetsu' as a standard metric. You also recognize the word's use in legal or insurance documents regarding 'snow damage.' Your mastery of the word includes knowing all its collocations and being able to explain the subtle differences between it and its synonyms to lower-level learners.
At the C2 level, you have a native-like grasp of 'kousetsu.' You can appreciate the word's role in the broader landscape of Japanese meteorological discourse. You might even notice when a writer uses 'kousetsu' in a literary context to create a specific, cold, clinical atmosphere, contrasting it with more poetic terms. You can engage in high-level debates about urban planning in 'gousetsu-chitai' and the technological challenges of managing 'kousetsu' on high-speed rail lines. The word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a tool for precise communication in specialized fields. You can effortlessly switch between the technical 'kousetsu' and the evocative 'yuki' depending on the audience and purpose, demonstrating a complete command of Japanese register and nuance.

降雪 30초 만에

  • Kousetsu is the formal Japanese noun for 'snowfall,' primarily used in weather reports and news.
  • It combines the kanji for 'descend' (降) and 'snow' (雪) to describe the meteorological event.
  • Unlike 'yuki' (snow), it is a technical term used for measurement and official documentation.
  • It is often found in compounds like 'kousetsuryou' (amount of snowfall) or 'kousetsu kakuritsu' (snowfall probability).

The Japanese word 降雪 (こうせつ - kousetsu) is a formal noun that describes the meteorological event of snow falling from the sky. While most beginners learn the word 雪 (yuki) early on, kousetsu is a Sino-Japanese compound (kango) that elevates the register of speech. It is used primarily in technical, administrative, and journalistic contexts. Understanding the distinction between the substance (snow) and the event (snowfall) is crucial for moving from basic Japanese to a more sophisticated level of fluency.

Etymological Breakdown
The first kanji, (kou), means to descend, to fall, or to surrender. It is the same character found in the verb furu (to rain or snow). The second kanji, (setsu), is the character for snow. Together, they literally mean 'descending snow.'

In daily life, if you look out the window and see white flakes, you would say, 'Yuki da!' (It's snow!). However, if you are watching the NHK evening news, the meteorologist will likely say, 'Kousetsu ga yosou saremasu' (Snowfall is predicted). This word allows for precise measurement and categorization, which is why you will often see it paired with 量 (ryou) to form kousetsuryou (amount of snowfall).

昨夜からの降雪により、交通機関に影響が出ています。(Due to the snowfall since last night, transportation systems are being affected.)

The nuance of kousetsu is clinical and objective. It removes the emotional or aesthetic quality of snow and treats it as a data point or a weather phenomenon. This is why it is rarely used in poetry or romantic songs, where yuki or more evocative terms like miyuki are preferred. In a business or safety context, however, using yuki might sound too casual or imprecise.

Register and Context
Formal weather reports, academic papers on climate, official government warnings, and news headlines are the primary domains for this word. It sounds professional and authoritative.

Furthermore, kousetsu is often used to describe the frequency or pattern of snow in a region. For example, a 'heavy snowfall area' is called a 豪雪地帯 (gousetsu chitai), utilizing the same 'setsu' but a different 'falling' nuance. Understanding kousetsu helps learners parse complex compound nouns that are essential for living in snowy regions of Japan like Hokkaido or Niigata.

この地域は年間を通して降雪が多い。(This region has high snowfall throughout the year.)

In summary, while yuki is the snow you play in, kousetsu is the snow you measure, report on, and plan around. It is a vital word for anyone looking to understand Japanese news or official documentation regarding the winter season.

Using 降雪 (kousetsu) correctly requires an understanding of Japanese noun-verb collocations. Because it is a noun, it often functions as the subject of a sentence or as part of a compound. The most common verb to pair with it is ある (aru) to indicate that snowfall occurs, or 記録する (kiroku suru) to record the amount of snowfall.

Grammar Pattern: [Time/Place] + に + 降雪 + がある
This is the standard way to state that snowfall is occurring or will occur in a specific area. For example: 'Kanto chihou ni kousetsu ga arimashita' (There was snowfall in the Kanto region).

Another frequent pattern involves the particle による (ni yoru), which means 'due to' or 'caused by.' This is extremely common in news reports regarding traffic delays or school closures. You will see phrases like 'kousetsu ni yoru eikyou' (effects due to snowfall).

強い降雪のため、視界が悪くなっています。(Due to heavy snowfall, visibility is becoming poor.)

When discussing the intensity of the snowfall, you can use adjectives like 強い (tsuyoi - strong), 激しい (hageshii - intense), or わずかな (wazuka na - slight). Note that while you can say 'oo-yuki' (heavy snow), in a formal context, 'tsuyoi kousetsu' is often preferred to describe the act of falling intensely.

In professional writing, kousetsu is frequently part of a compound noun. For example, 降雪確率 (kousetsu kakuritsu) means the probability of snowfall. In these cases, the word functions almost like a prefix, defining the nature of the probability or measurement.

明日の降雪確率は80%です。(The probability of snowfall tomorrow is 80%.)

Common Verb Pairings
1. 降雪を観測する (kansoku suru) - To observe snowfall.
2. 降雪が続く (tsuzuku) - Snowfall continues.
3. 降雪が弱まる (yowamaru) - Snowfall weakens.

When comparing kousetsu to sekisetsu (accumulation), remember that kousetsu focuses on the action of falling. If you are talking about the depth of snow already on the ground, use sekisetsu. If you are talking about the snow currently coming from the sky, use kousetsu. This distinction is vital for accuracy in Japanese communication.

北海道では、激しい降雪が続いています。(In Hokkaido, intense snowfall is continuing.)

The word 降雪 (kousetsu) is ubiquitous in specific environments in Japan, particularly during the winter months. If you live in or travel to Japan between December and March, you will encounter this word in several key locations.

1. Public Transportation Announcements
At train stations and airports, announcements regarding delays often cite 'kousetsu.' You might hear: 'Kousetsu no eikyou de, densha ga okurete orimasu' (Due to the influence of snowfall, trains are delayed). This is much more common than saying 'Yuki no sei de' in a formal announcement.

The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) is the primary source of this word. Their daily briefings and website use kousetsu to provide objective data. For residents in the 'Snow Country' (Yukiguni) areas like Niigata, Toyama, and Akita, checking the kousetsuryou (snowfall amount) is a daily ritual to determine if they need to shovel their roofs or if the roads will be passable.

気象庁は、大雪に関する降雪情報を発表しました。(The Meteorological Agency has released snowfall information regarding heavy snow.)

Ski resorts are another prime location for this vocabulary. When looking at a ski resort's website or billboard, they will list the 24-jikan kousetsuryou (24-hour snowfall amount) to entice skiers with promises of fresh powder. Here, the word carries a positive connotation for winter sports enthusiasts, though it remains technically formal.

In academic and environmental discussions, kousetsu is used to discuss climate change. Researchers study the 'annual snowfall' (nenkan kousetsuryou) to track changes in precipitation patterns. If you attend a lecture on Japanese geography or climate, this word is indispensable.

今年の冬は、例年より降雪が少ないです。(This winter, there is less snowfall than in average years.)

Summary of Locations
- NHK News (Weather segment)
- JR Station electronic boards
- Ski resort status reports
- Geography textbooks
- Government emergency alerts on smartphones

By recognizing kousetsu in these contexts, you can quickly grasp the severity and nature of winter weather situations in Japan without needing to understand every single surrounding word.

While 降雪 (kousetsu) is a useful word, its formal nature makes it prone to misuse by learners who might over-apply it in casual settings. The most common mistake is using it where the simple word 雪 (yuki) is much more natural.

Mistake 1: Over-formality in Conversation
If you are talking to a friend and say, 'Kousetsu ga kirei desu ne' (The snowfall is beautiful), it sounds like you are reading a weather report. Instead, use: 'Yuki ga kirei desu ne.' Use yuki for aesthetics and personal experiences.

Another error involves confusing 降雪 (kousetsu) with 積雪 (sekisetsu). As mentioned previously, kousetsu is the snow falling, while sekisetsu is the snow piled up. If you want to say 'There is 50cm of snow on the ground,' using kousetsu is incorrect because that refers to the falling action. You must use sekisetsu or simply yuki.

❌ 降雪が30センチあります。(Incorrect for '30cm of snow on ground')
積雪が30センチあります。(Correct)

Learners also often forget that kousetsu is a noun and try to use it like a verb. While furu is the verb 'to fall,' kousetsu cannot be used as 'kousetsu-shiteiru' in standard Japanese. Instead, you would say 'kousetsu ga aru' or 'kousetsu ga kansoku sareru.'

Mistake 3: Misusing with 'Heavy'
While 'Ooyuki' (heavy snow) is a common noun, you don't typically say 'Ookina kousetsu.' Instead, use 'Tsuyoi kousetsu' (strong snowfall) or 'Hageshii kousetsu' (intense snowfall) to describe the intensity.

Finally, be careful with the particle usage. People often say 'kousetsu 見る' (to see the snowfall), which is okay, but in a technical sense, it's 'kousetsu ある' (there is snowfall). Using the wrong particle can make the sentence feel slightly off-balance in a formal context.

❌ 降雪を降る (Incorrect)
が降る (Correct)

By keeping these distinctions in mind—formal vs. casual, falling vs. accumulated, and noun vs. verb—you will use kousetsu like a native speaker.

Japanese has a rich vocabulary for winter weather. Understanding how 降雪 (kousetsu) fits into this web of synonyms and related terms will greatly enhance your descriptive abilities.

降雪 (Kousetsu) vs. 雪 (Yuki)
降雪: The formal, technical event of snow falling. Used in news and reports.
雪: The general, everyday word for snow. Used in conversation, poetry, and for the white substance itself.

Another critical comparison is with 積雪 (sekisetsu). As previously noted, sekisetsu refers to the depth of snow that has already settled on the ground. In a weather report, you will often hear both: 'Kousetsuryou wa 20cm, sekisetsu wa 50cm' (Snowfall amount is 20cm, accumulated snow is 50cm).

積雪 (Sekisetsu) focusing on the ground; 降雪 (Kousetsu) focusing on the sky.

For 'heavy snow,' you have several options. 大雪 (ooyuki) is the most common term for a heavy snowfall event. However, in technical terms, 豪雪 (gousetsu) is used for exceptionally heavy, often disastrous snowfall. You might hear of a gousetsu-chitai (heavy snow zone), but you wouldn't say kousetsu-chitai.

There are also more specific types of snowfall:

  • 粉雪 (konayuki): Powder snow. Very light and dry.
  • 吹雪 (fubuki): Blizzard or snowstorm. Focuses on the wind and lack of visibility.
  • 初雪 (hatsuyuki): The first snow of the season. A very culturally significant word in Japan.
  • 淡雪 (awayuki): Light, fleeting snow that melts quickly.
Technical Comparison
- 降雪量 (Kousetsuryou): Amount of snow that fell in a specific period.
- 降水量 (Kousuiryou): Total precipitation (melted snow + rain).
- 降雪強度 (Kousetsu Kyoudo): Snowfall intensity.

When you want to sound professional, use kousetsu. When you want to be descriptive or emotional, use the specific 'yuki' variations. For example, 'Konayuki ga futteiru' sounds more poetic and descriptive than 'Kousetsu ga aru,' even if both describe the same physical reality.

明日は降雪の恐れがあります。(There is a fear/risk of snowfall tomorrow.)

How Formal Is It?

재미있는 사실

The kanji for snow (雪) contains the 'rain' radical (雨) on top and a character representing 'broom' or 'hand holding a tool' below, suggesting something that can be swept away.

발음 가이드

UK /koʊ.seɪ.tsuː/
US /koʊ.seɪ.tsuː/
The stress is relatively even, but there is a slight pitch drop after 'kou'.
라임이 맞는 단어
Kousetsu (降雪) Kousetsu (後節 - later passage) Kousetsu (高説 - your enlightened opinion) Kousetsu (口舌 - tongue/speech) Kousetsu (公説 - public opinion) Kousetsu (巧拙 - skill level) Kousetsu (巷説 - rumor) Kousetsu (恒説 - established theory)
자주 하는 실수
  • Pronouncing 'tsu' as 'tu' (it should be like the 'ts' in 'cats').
  • Shortening the 'kou' to 'ko' (it must be a long vowel).
  • Confusing the pitch accent with 'kousetsu' (construction), though they are usually distinguished by context.
  • Over-emphasizing the 'u' at the end (it is often whispered/devoiced).
  • Pronouncing 'se' as 'say' (it should be a short 'e' like in 'met').

난이도

독해 3/5

The kanji are standard but the first one (降) has many readings.

쓰기 4/5

Writing 降 requires attention to stroke order and radicals.

말하기 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward.

듣기 3/5

Can be confused with other 'kousetsu' homophones if context is missing.

다음에 무엇을 배울까

선수 학습

雪 (yuki) 降る (furu) 天気 (tenki) 量 (ryou) ある (aru)

다음에 배울 것

積雪 (sekisetsu) 除雪 (josetsu) 降水 (kousui) 豪雪 (gousetsu) 気象 (kishou)

고급

降雪強度 (kousetsu kyoudo) 雪水比 (sessuihi) 昇華 (shouka - sublimation)

알아야 할 문법

Noun + のため (Due to...)

降雪のため、学校は休みです。

Noun + による (By means of / Due to...)

降雪による事故が増えています。

Passive Voice (Saremasu)

各地で降雪が観測されました。

Compound Nouns

降雪量 (kousetsu + ryou).

Particle 'ga' with Existence

降雪がありました。

수준별 예문

1

今日は降雪があります。

Today there is snowfall.

Uses the basic 'ga arimasu' structure for existence.

2

降雪はきれいです。

The snowfall is beautiful.

Uses 'wa' to describe the subject.

3

降雪を見ています。

I am watching the snowfall.

Uses 'o miteimasu' (present continuous).

4

ここは降雪が多いです。

There is a lot of snowfall here.

Uses 'ga ooi' to describe quantity.

5

明日も降雪でしょう。

It will probably be snowfall tomorrow too.

Uses 'deshou' for prediction.

6

降雪が好きです。

I like snowfall.

Uses 'ga suki' for preference.

7

降雪が始まりました。

The snowfall has started.

Uses 'ga hajimaru' (to start).

8

降雪に気をつけてください。

Please be careful of the snowfall.

Uses 'ni ki o tsukeru' (to be careful).

1

降雪のため、電車が遅れました。

Because of the snowfall, the train was late.

Uses 'no tame' to indicate reason.

2

昨日の降雪量は5センチでした。

Yesterday's snowfall amount was 5 centimeters.

Uses 'ryou' (amount) as a compound.

3

強い降雪が予想されています。

Strong snowfall is being predicted.

Uses 'yosou sareteiru' (passive voice).

4

降雪が止むまで待ちましょう。

Let's wait until the snowfall stops.

Uses 'yamu' (to stop raining/snowing).

5

この町は降雪が珍しいです。

Snowfall is rare in this town.

Uses 'mezurashii' (rare).

6

降雪の影響で道が滑ります。

Due to the influence of snowfall, the roads are slippery.

Uses 'no eikyou de' (influence/effect).

7

テレビで降雪のニュースを見ました。

I saw news of the snowfall on TV.

Uses 'no news' to specify the topic.

8

降雪が続くと困りますね。

It's a problem if the snowfall continues, isn't it?

Uses 'to' (if) conditional.

1

激しい降雪により、高速道路が通行止めになった。

Due to intense snowfall, the highway was closed to traffic.

Uses 'ni yori' (formal 'due to').

2

この地域では、例年12月に降雪が見られます。

In this region, snowfall is seen in December in average years.

Uses 'mirareru' (potential/passive).

3

降雪が激しくなり、視界が遮られた。

The snowfall became intense, and visibility was blocked.

Uses 'ni naru' (to become) and 'saegirareru' (passive).

4

降雪確率は低いですが、念のため傘を持って行きます。

The snowfall probability is low, but I'll take an umbrella just in case.

Uses 'kousetsu kakuritsu' (snowfall probability).

5

降雪のピークは今夜から明朝にかけてでしょう。

The peak of the snowfall will likely be from tonight through tomorrow morning.

Uses 'kara... ni kakete' (from... to).

6

山間部では、かなりの降雪が記録されました。

In the mountain areas, a considerable amount of snowfall was recorded.

Uses 'kiroku sareta' (was recorded).

7

降雪が収まった後、雪かきをしなければならない。

After the snowfall subsides, I must shovel the snow.

Uses 'osamatta' (subsided).

8

気象庁は、今後の降雪に警戒を呼びかけている。

The Meteorological Agency is calling for vigilance regarding future snowfall.

Uses 'keikai o yobikakeru' (to call for caution).

1

記録的な降雪により、ライフラインに支障をきたしている。

Due to record-breaking snowfall, lifelines are being disrupted.

Uses 'shishou o kitasu' (to cause an obstacle/disruption).

2

降雪が予想を上回り、除雪作業が追いつかない。

Snowfall exceeded expectations, and snow removal work cannot keep up.

Uses 'uomawaru' (to exceed) and 'oitsukanai' (cannot keep up).

3

この建物は、激しい降雪にも耐えられる設計になっている。

This building is designed to withstand intense snowfall.

Uses 'ni taerareru' (can withstand).

4

降雪のメカニズムについて、気象学者が解説した。

A meteorologist explained the mechanism of snowfall.

Uses 'mechanism' as a loanword.

5

断続的な降雪が、農作物の生育に悪影響を及ぼしている。

Intermittent snowfall is having a negative effect on crop growth.

Uses 'danzokuteki' (intermittent) and 'akueikyou o oyobosu'.

6

降雪に伴い、気温が急激に低下した。

Along with the snowfall, the temperature dropped sharply.

Uses 'ni tomonai' (along with/accompanying).

7

降雪時には、スタッドレスタイヤの装着が義務付けられている。

At the time of snowfall, fitting studless tires is mandatory.

Uses 'gimutukerareteiru' (is mandatory).

8

降雪が見込まれるため、イベントの中止が決定した。

Because snowfall is expected, the cancellation of the event was decided.

Uses 'mikomareru' (is expected).

1

温暖化の影響で、年間の降雪パターンが変化している。

Due to the effects of global warming, annual snowfall patterns are changing.

Uses 'pattern' as a loanword.

2

当該地域における降雪の頻度は、過去10年で減少傾向にある。

The frequency of snowfall in the region in question has been on a downward trend over the past 10 years.

Uses 'tougai' (the said/concerned) and 'genshou keikou' (downward trend).

3

降雪がもたらす経済的損失は、無視できない規模である。

The economic losses brought about by snowfall are of a scale that cannot be ignored.

Uses 'motarasu' (to bring about) and 'mushi dekinai' (cannot ignore).

4

最新のシミュレーションによれば、明日の降雪は避けられない見通しだ。

According to the latest simulations, snowfall tomorrow is an unavoidable prospect.

Uses 'mitoushi' (prospect/outlook).

5

降雪による倒木の危険性があるため、入山が規制されている。

Access to the mountain is restricted due to the danger of fallen trees caused by snowfall.

Uses 'kisei sareteiru' (is restricted).

6

降雪の強弱によって、除雪車の出動回数が調整される。

The number of times snowplows are deployed is adjusted based on the intensity of snowfall.

Uses 'kyoujaku' (strength/intensity).

7

降雪が都市機能に与えるインパクトを最小限に抑える必要がある。

It is necessary to minimize the impact that snowfall has on urban functions.

Uses 'impact' and 'saishougen ni osaeru' (minimize).

8

局地的な降雪が、予測困難な事態を招いている。

Localized snowfall is leading to unpredictable situations.

Uses 'kyokuchiteki' (localized) and 'jitai o maneku' (bring about a situation).

1

降雪の物理的特性を解明することは、防災対策において肝要である。

Elucidating the physical characteristics of snowfall is essential for disaster prevention measures.

Uses 'kan'you' (essential/vital).

2

大気中の水蒸気量と降雪の相関関係が、緻密に分析された。

The correlation between the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere and snowfall was meticulously analyzed.

Uses 'soukan kankei' (correlation).

3

降雪がもたらす静寂は、しばしば文学的表現の主題となる。

The silence brought by snowfall is often the subject of literary expression.

Uses 'shujai' (subject/theme).

4

降雪量の変動は、水資源の管理に多大な影響を及ぼす。

Fluctuations in snowfall amounts have a significant impact on the management of water resources.

Uses 'hendou' (fluctuation) and 'tadaina' (great/enormous).

5

降雪の推移を長期的に観測することで、気候変動の全容が見えてくる。

By observing the transition of snowfall over the long term, the full picture of climate change becomes visible.

Uses 'suii' (transition/change) and 'zen'you' (full picture).

6

過酷な降雪環境下でのインフラ整備には、高度な技術が要求される。

Infrastructure development under harsh snowfall environments requires advanced technology.

Uses 'kankyou-ka' (under the environment).

7

降雪に対する社会のレジリエンスを高めることが、喫緊の課題だ。

Increasing society's resilience to snowfall is an urgent task.

Uses 'resilience' and 'kikkin no kadai' (urgent task).

8

降雪の予報精度を向上させるべく、新たな衛星が導入された。

A new satellite was introduced in order to improve the accuracy of snowfall forecasts.

Uses 'beku' (in order to).

동의어

積雪 降雪量 粉雪 吹雪

자주 쓰는 조합

降雪がある
降雪量
降雪の影響
降雪が続く
降雪を観測する
降雪確率
強い降雪
降雪記録
降雪地帯
降雪のため

자주 쓰는 구문

降雪による通行止め

— Road closure due to snowfall. Found on highway signs.

降雪による通行止めが解除されました。

降雪が予想される

— Snowfall is expected. Standard weather forecast phrase.

今夜から明日にかけて降雪が予想されます。

わずかな降雪

— Slight or minor snowfall. Used for light dusting.

都内でもわずかな降雪がありました。

降雪のピーク

— The peak of the snowfall. Used to identify the worst time.

降雪のピークは過ぎました。

断続的な降雪

— Intermittent snowfall. Snow that starts and stops.

断続的な降雪にご注意ください。

局地的な降雪

— Localized snowfall. Snow falling in a specific, small area.

局地的な降雪により視界が悪化しています。

降雪に見舞われる

— To be hit by/struck by snowfall. Often used for sudden, heavy snow.

東北地方が激しい降雪に見舞われた。

降雪を伴う寒気

— Cold air accompanied by snowfall. Technical weather description.

降雪を伴う強い寒気が流れ込んでいます。

降雪への備え

— Preparation for snowfall. Common in community newsletters.

本格的な降雪への備えを始めましょう。

降雪が弱まる

— Snowfall weakens or lets up. Used when the intensity decreases.

午後から降雪が弱まる見通しです。

자주 혼동되는 단어

降雪 vs 積雪 (sekisetsu)

Kousetsu is falling snow; Sekisetsu is snow on the ground.

降雪 vs 降水 (kousui)

Kousui is any liquid/solid water (rain or snow); Kousetsu is only snow.

降雪 vs 降雨 (kou-u)

Kousetsu is snow; Kou-u is rain.

관용어 및 표현

"降雪に閉じ込められる"

— To be snowed in or trapped by snowfall.

山荘で激しい降雪に閉じ込められた。

Neutral
"降雪を突く"

— To go through or brave the snowfall. Used for moving despite the snow.

降雪を突いて進軍した。

Literary
"降雪が静寂を呼ぶ"

— The snowfall brings silence. A common descriptive trope.

降雪が街に静寂を呼んでいる。

Poetic
"降雪に埋もれる"

— To be buried in snowfall. Can be literal or metaphorical.

小さな村が降雪に埋もれてしまった。

Neutral
"降雪の洗礼を受ける"

— To receive the 'baptism' of snowfall. Used for someone's first experience.

彼は初めての冬に降雪の洗礼を受けた。

Informal/Metaphorical
"降雪を待つ"

— To wait for the snowfall. Often used by ski resorts.

スキー場は今か今かと降雪を待っている。

Neutral
"降雪が足止めする"

— The snowfall keeps one in place / prevents travel.

降雪が多くの帰省客を足止めした。

Neutral
"降雪の下で"

— Under the snowfall. Used as a setting description.

降雪の下で、二人は再会した。

Poetic
"降雪が景色を変える"

— The snowfall changes the scenery.

一晩の降雪が景色をすっかり変えてしまった。

Neutral
"降雪を喜ぶ"

— To rejoice in the snowfall. Often used for children or dogs.

子供たちは庭で降雪を喜んでいる。

Neutral

혼동하기 쉬운

降雪 vs 雪 (yuki)

Both mean snow.

Yuki is general and used for the substance. Kousetsu is formal and refers to the event of falling.

雪で遊ぶ (Play with snow) vs 降雪を記録する (Record snowfall).

降雪 vs 積雪 (sekisetsu)

Both are used in weather reports.

Kousetsu measures what fell today. Sekisetsu measures the total depth on the ground.

今日の降雪は10cm、現在の積雪は50cmです。

降雪 vs 豪雪 (gousetsu)

Both contain 'setsu'.

Kousetsu is any snowfall. Gousetsu is specifically heavy or extreme snowfall.

豪雪地帯 (Heavy snow zone).

降雪 vs 落雪 (rakusetsu)

Both involve snow moving down.

Kousetsu is from the sky. Rakusetsu is from a roof or a mountain slope (avalanche context).

屋根からの落雪 (Snow falling from the roof).

降雪 vs 吹雪 (fubuki)

Both occur during snow.

Kousetsu is the act of falling. Fubuki is the storm condition (wind + snow).

激しい吹雪で前が見えない。

문장 패턴

A1

Noun が あります。

降雪があります。

A2

Noun のため、...

降雪のため、遅れます。

B1

Noun により、...

降雪により、通行止めです。

B1

Noun が 予想されます。

降雪が予想されます。

B2

Noun に 伴い、...

降雪に伴い、気温が下がった。

B2

Noun を 観測する。

強い降雪を観測した。

C1

Noun の 傾向に ある。

降雪は減少傾向にある。

C2

Noun を 最小限に 抑える。

降雪の影響を最小限に抑える。

어휘 가족

명사

降雪 (Snowfall)
降雪量 (Snowfall amount)
降雪機 (Snow machine)
豪雪 (Heavy snow)

동사

降る (To fall - rain/snow)
降り積もる (To fall and pile up)

형용사

雪深い (Deep in snow)
雪白い (Snow white)

관련

積雪
除雪
雪害
降水
気象

사용법

frequency

High (Seasonal)

자주 하는 실수
  • Using 'kousetsu' for snow on the ground. 積雪 (sekisetsu)

    Kousetsu is only for falling snow. Once it hits the ground and stays there, it's sekisetsu.

  • Saying 'kousetsu-shiteiru'. 雪が降っている (yuki ga futteiru)

    Kousetsu is a noun, not a suru-verb. Use 'yuki ga furu' for the action.

  • Using 'kousetsu' in a very casual sentence. 雪 (yuki)

    It sounds overly formal and weird in casual conversation with friends.

  • Confusing 'kousetsu' (snowfall) with 'kousetsu' (construction). Check kanji (降雪 vs 建設/工説)

    While they sound similar, the context of weather vs. building is usually clear.

  • Using 'ookina kousetsu' for heavy snow. 強い降雪 (tsuyoi kousetsu) / 大雪 (ooyuki)

    Intensity of snowfall is described with 'tsuyoi' (strong) or 'hageshii' (intense).

Watch the News

The best way to learn 'kousetsu' is to watch the NHK weather forecast. They use it every single day during winter.

Pair with Nouns

Learn it as part of 'kousetsu-ryou' (amount) or 'kousetsu-kakuritsu' (probability) to see how it functions in compounds.

Radical Recognition

The left side of 降 is the 'hill' radical. Imagine snow falling down a hill to remember the meaning.

Snow vs Rainfall

Learn 'kousetsu' and 'kou-u' (rainfall) together. They follow the same pattern: 降 + [weather type].

Keep it Formal

Avoid using 'kousetsu' when talking to your friends about a ski trip; it sounds too much like a lecture.

Context Clues

If you see 'cm' after a word starting with 降, it's almost certainly 'kousetsu-ryou' (snowfall amount).

Pitch Accent

Focus on a flat or slightly dropping pitch. Don't stress any syllable too hard.

Station Alerts

Listen for 'kousetsu' in train station announcements during winter delays to practice real-world listening.

Warning Signs

Look for 'kousetsu' on mountain road signs. It usually warns of dangerous driving conditions.

Snow Country

Read about the 'Yukiguni' regions of Japan to understand why this technical vocabulary is so important there.

암기하기

기억법

Think of 'KOU' as a King descending from his throne, and 'SETSU' as the snow setting on the ground. The King of winter makes the snow descend.

시각적 연상

Imagine a weather map with a blue 'KOU' (降) arrow pointing down and a white 'SETSU' (雪) snowflake. This is the official 'snowfall' event.

Word Web

Weather Winter Meteorology Precipitation Kanji Formal NHK Japan

챌린지

Try to find the word 降雪 on a Japanese weather website (like Yahoo Weather Japan) and note the 'ryou' (amount) next to it.

어원

Kousetsu is a Sino-Japanese word (kango) that entered the Japanese language through the study of Chinese texts and was later adopted into modern meteorological terminology.

원래 의미: The literal combination of 'descend' and 'snow.'

Japonic (Sino-Japanese compound).

문화적 맥락

No specific sensitivities, but be aware that for people in heavy snow zones, 'kousetsu' can imply hardship or danger.

In English, we usually just say 'snowfall.' We don't have a specific formal word that is used as distinctively as 'kousetsu' is from 'yuki.'

NHK News Weather Segment Yasunari Kawabata's 'Snow Country' (contextual) Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) reports

실생활에서 연습하기

실제 사용 상황

Weather Forecast

  • 降雪が予想されます
  • 降雪確率は...
  • 強い降雪に注意
  • 降雪量は...

Train/Flight Delay

  • 降雪の影響で
  • 降雪のため遅延
  • 降雪による欠航
  • 降雪状況を確認

Ski Resort

  • 昨晩の降雪
  • 降雪機を稼働
  • 降雪を待つ
  • フレッシュな降雪

News Headline

  • 記録的な降雪
  • 降雪で立ち往生
  • 降雪被害
  • 降雪の見通し

Geography Class

  • 年間降雪量
  • 降雪のメカニズム
  • 降雪地帯の特徴
  • 降雪の変化

대화 시작하기

"ニュースで言っていた降雪量は、どのくらいでしたか?"

"降雪の影響で、今日の予定は変わりますか?"

"あなたの国では、冬にどのくらいの降雪がありますか?"

"このあたりの降雪は、例年いつ頃から始まりますか?"

"降雪確率が高いですが、スタッドレスタイヤは履いていますか?"

일기 주제

今日の降雪について、窓からの景色を詳しく描写してください。

降雪が原因で困った経験があれば、それを書いてください。

降雪量が多い地域に住むことのメリットとデメリットを考えてください。

もし明日、記録的な降雪があったら、あなたはどう過ごしますか?

「降雪」という言葉を使って、冬のニュースレポートを書いてみましょう。

자주 묻는 질문

10 질문

Rarely. Native speakers use 'yuki' (snow) or 'yuki ga furu' (snow falls) in casual talk. 'Kousetsu' is for news and formal reports.

It is measured in centimeters (cm) using a snow gauge, usually referred to as 'kousetsuryou' (snowfall amount).

Technically yes, but 'hatsuyuki' is the standard and more beautiful word for that specific event.

'Kousui' is the general term for precipitation (rain, snow, hail). 'Kousetsu' is specifically for snow.

Not necessarily. It can be 'wazuka na kousetsu' (slight snowfall) or 'hageshii kousetsu' (intense snowfall).

No, it is a noun. To use it as an action, you say 'kousetsu ga aru' or 'kousetsu ga mirareru'.

It means 'to fall' or 'descend.' You see it in 'kouka' (descending) and 'kou-u' (rainfall).

It sounds more objective, technical, and precise, which is the standard for professional reporting in Japan.

No, an avalanche is 'nadare.' 'Kousetsu' is only snow falling from the sky.

Yes, 'kousetsuki' is the word for a snow-making machine.

셀프 테스트 180 질문

writing

Write 'snowfall' in Kanji.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Due to snowfall' using 'no tame'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Snowfall is expected' formally.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The amount of snowfall was 20cm.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Annual snowfall is decreasing.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Compose a formal weather warning about heavy snowfall.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'There is snowfall.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The snowfall stopped.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Snowfall probability is 50%.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Traffic is affected by snowfall.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'Localized snowfall caused an accident.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Translate: 'The correlation between altitude and snowfall was studied.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write the Hiragana for 降雪.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Today's snowfall' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Strong snowfall' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Snowfall information' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Snowfall distribution' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'The mechanism of snowfall' in Japanese.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'I like snowfall.' formally.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
writing

Write 'Is there snowfall?' formally.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'There is snowfall' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'The train is late due to snowfall.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain the difference between 'yuki' and 'kousetsu'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Describe a weather forecast using 'kousetsu kakuritsu'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Discuss the impact of snowfall on your city.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Analyze the trend of annual snowfall in Japan.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Pronounce: 降雪 (こうせつ)

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'It is snowing' formally.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'I am watching the snowfall.' formally.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Snowfall is expected from tonight.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Localized snowfall is dangerous.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Discuss 'resilience against snowfall'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'White snowfall' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Is it snowfall tomorrow?' formally.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Snowfall amount is 10cm.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Due to intense snowfall...'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Snowfall patterns are changing.'

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Explain 'kousetsu mechanism'.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Snowfall' three times.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
speaking

Say 'Snowfall information' in Japanese.

Read this aloud:

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen to the word: こうせつ. What is it?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪のため... What is the reason given?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪量は20センチ。 How much snow?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪確率は0%。 Is it going to snow?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 局地的な降雪に警戒。 What should you watch out for?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪の物理的特性。 What is the lecture about?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪があります。 Is it snowing now?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪が止みました。 Is it still snowing?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 激しい降雪にご注意。 Is the snow light or heavy?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪が続いています。 Is the snow starting or continuing?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪の影響で通行止め。 Is the road open?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪の推移を長期的に観測。 What is the duration of observation?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: きれいな降雪。 Is the snow ugly or beautiful?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 明日の降雪。 When is the snow?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
listening

Listen: 降雪情報を確認。 What should you check?

정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:
정답! 아쉬워요. 정답:

/ 180 correct

Perfect score!

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