豪雨 in 30 Seconds
- 豪雨 (gōu) means heavy rain or downpour.
- It describes intense, voluminous rainfall.
- Used in weather reports and news about severe weather.
- Implies potential for flooding and disruption.
The Japanese word 豪雨 (gōu) is a noun that directly translates to 'heavy rain' or 'downpour' in English. It refers to rainfall that is exceptionally intense and often causes disruptions. This term is commonly used in weather reports, news articles, and everyday conversations when discussing severe weather conditions. It conveys a sense of volume and force in the rain, suggesting that it is more than just a regular shower. The kanji 豪 (gō) itself carries meanings related to 'heroic,' 'chivalrous,' or 'overpowering,' which effectively captures the powerful and overwhelming nature of such rainfall. The kanji 雨 (u) simply means 'rain.' Together, they paint a vivid picture of rain that is intense and noteworthy. When you hear or read 豪雨, think of rain that is so heavy it might impede visibility, cause flooding, or require significant precautions.
- Usage Context
- Used in formal and informal contexts to describe intense rainfall. It is a standard term in meteorological communication and general news reporting.
- Nuance
- Implies a quantity and intensity of rain that is beyond normal levels, often leading to inconvenience or danger.
昨夜は豪雨で大変でした。
注意報が出ているので、豪雨に警戒してください。
Japanese culture often emphasizes preparedness for natural disasters, and 豪雨 is one such phenomenon that communities are accustomed to preparing for. It's not just about the rain itself, but the potential consequences like landslides (土砂崩れ - doshakuzure), floods (洪水 - kōzui), and disruptions to transportation. Therefore, discussions involving 豪雨 often extend to safety measures and disaster prevention. In media, you'll frequently see it paired with terms like 警報 (keihō - warning) or 注意報 (chūihō - advisory) to alert the public. The term's usage is prevalent in regions prone to heavy rainfall, such as parts of Southeast Asia and Japan, especially during monsoon seasons or typhoon periods. For learners, recognizing 豪雨 is crucial for understanding weather-related news and discussions about public safety in Japan.
- Related Weather Terms
- 大雨 (ōame): heavy rain (slightly less intense than 豪雨, more general)
激しい雨 (hageshii ame): violent rain (describes the intensity of the falling drops)
集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu): localized heavy rain, downpour (often refers to sudden, intense showers in a specific area)
Using 豪雨 (gōu) correctly in a sentence involves understanding its role as a noun signifying intense rainfall. It can function as the subject, object, or part of a prepositional phrase, much like 'heavy rain' or 'downpour' in English. Often, it is accompanied by verbs indicating the occurrence or impact of the rain, or by adjectives describing its severity. When speaking or writing about weather events, 豪雨 is a strong indicator of a significant weather phenomenon. For instance, you might use it to describe past events, current conditions, or future warnings. The context typically involves weather reports, news, or personal anecdotes about challenging weather. Remember that 豪雨 is a formal term, suitable for most situations, but especially common in official announcements and news. It's important to pair it with appropriate verbs and context to convey the intended meaning accurately. For example, to say 'the heavy rain caused flooding,' you would use verbs like '起こした (okoshita - caused)' or 'もたらした (motarashita - brought about)' in relation to 洪水 (kōzui - flood).
豪雨のため、試合は中止になりました。
- Subject Usage
- The noun 豪雨 can directly act as the subject of a sentence, indicating that the heavy rain is the agent performing an action or causing a state. For example, 豪雨が川の氾濫を引き起こした (Gōu ga kawa no hanran o hikiokoshita - The heavy rain caused the river to flood).
- Object Usage
- It can also be the object of a verb, describing what is being experienced or dealt with. For example, 私たちは豪雨に耐えました (Watashitachi wa gōu ni taemashita - We endured the heavy rain).
- Adverbial Usage (with particles)
- With particles like 'で (de)' or 'による (ni yoru)', it functions adverbially, indicating the cause or reason for something. For example, 豪雨で道路が寸断された (Gōu de dōro ga sundan sareta - The roads were cut off by the heavy rain).
この地域は豪雨に見舞われやすい。
To express the intensity of the rain, you can use phrases like 激しい豪雨 (hageshii gōu - violent heavy rain), though 豪雨 itself already implies significant intensity. When describing the duration or impact, consider verbs like 続く (tsuzuku - to continue) or 避難する (hinan suru - to evacuate). For instance, 豪雨が数日間続いた (Gōu ga sūjitsukan tsuzuita - The heavy rain continued for several days). When reporting weather forecasts, you might hear or see statements like 明日は豪雨の予報です (Ashita wa gōu no yohō desu - Tomorrow's forecast is for heavy rain). The word is versatile enough to fit into various grammatical structures, making it a fundamental term for discussing severe weather in Japanese. Pay attention to how particles like が (ga), を (o), and で (de) are used to connect 豪雨 with other parts of the sentence.
You will most frequently encounter the term 豪雨 (gōu) in contexts related to weather and natural disasters. Weather forecasts, particularly those delivered on television, radio, or through news websites, are a primary source. Meteorologists use 豪雨 to describe rain that exceeds normal precipitation levels and carries potential risks. News reports about current weather events or aftermaths of storms will also heavily feature this word. For example, a news headline might read: '豪雨により、〇〇地域で土砂崩れが発生' (Gōu ni yori, 〇〇 chiiki de doshakuzure ga hassei - Due to heavy rain, a landslide occurred in the 〇〇 region). This highlights the word's association with significant, often destructive, weather phenomena. Official disaster warnings and advisories issued by government agencies or meteorological bureaus are another common place. These alerts aim to inform the public about imminent dangers, and 豪雨 is a key term used to convey the severity of the rainfall. On a more personal level, people might discuss past experiences with heavy rain using 豪雨, perhaps when recounting travel difficulties or damage to their homes. For instance, a conversation could be: '先週の台風の時、ひどい豪雨だったよね' (Senshū no taifū no toki, hidoi gōu datta yo ne - Last week during the typhoon, it was terrible heavy rain, wasn't it?). Educational materials about meteorology or disaster preparedness in Japanese will also utilize this term. Finally, in literature or film that depicts natural disasters, 豪雨 serves as a descriptive element to set a dramatic or perilous scene. The term's presence signifies an event of substantial meteorological impact.
- News Broadcasts
- Weather segments often use 豪雨 to describe current or upcoming intense rainfall. For example, '現在、〇〇地方では豪雨が続いており、河川の増水に注意が必要です。' (Genzai, 〇〇 chihō de wa gōu ga tsuzuite ori, kasen no zōsui ni chūi ga hitsuyō desu. - Currently, heavy rain is continuing in the 〇〇 region, and caution is needed regarding rising river levels.)
- Government Advisories
- Official warnings about potential natural disasters will use 豪雨 to specify the type of severe weather. For instance, '豪雨による土砂災害警戒情報が発表されました。' (Gōu ni yoru dosha saigai keikai jōhō ga happyō saremashita. - A landslide disaster warning due to heavy rain has been issued.)
- Casual Conversation
- People might describe their experiences with severe weather using this term. '昨日の夜は豪雨で外に出られなかったよ。' (Kinō no yoru wa gōu de soto ni derarenakatta yo. - I couldn't go outside last night because of the heavy rain.)
台風接近のため、豪雨が予想されます。
Disaster preparedness manuals and websites often use 豪雨 when explaining potential hazards and safety measures. You might see it in sections discussing evacuation procedures or necessary supplies for severe weather. Online forums or social media posts discussing recent weather events could also use 豪雨 to describe exceptionally heavy rain. For example, someone might post a picture of a flooded street with a caption like: 'これはひどい豪雨だ！' (Kore wa hidoi gōu da! - This is terrible heavy rain!). Even in fictional works like manga or novels, 豪雨 can be used to establish a mood of danger or hardship. The term is a standard and widely understood descriptor for a significant weather event across various media and communication channels in Japan.
One common mistake for learners is to confuse 豪雨 (gōu) with less intense forms of rain or to use it interchangeably with similar-sounding but less specific terms. While 豪雨 means 'heavy rain' or 'downpour,' it's important to recognize its intensity. Using 豪雨 for a light shower would be incorrect and sound unnatural. For example, saying 豪雨が降っている (Gōu ga futte iru) when it's just drizzling is a mistake. Instead, for light rain, you would use terms like 小雨 (kosame) or just 雨 (ame). Another potential pitfall is the pronunciation. While the kanji are straightforward, ensuring the correct pitch accent for 豪雨 (gō-u, with the first syllable generally higher) is important for natural-sounding speech. Mispronouncing it might hinder comprehension. Learners might also misuse particles when forming sentences with 豪雨. For instance, incorrectly using a particle like 'を (o)' when 'で (de)' is needed to indicate the cause of an event. A sentence like '豪雨を電車が遅れた' (Gōu o densha ga okureta - Heavy rain the train was delayed) is grammatically incorrect; it should be '豪雨で電車が遅れた' (Gōu de densha ga okureta - Due to heavy rain, the train was delayed). Furthermore, some learners might overemphasize the 'heroic' or 'overpowering' nuance of the kanji 豪 (gō) in a way that doesn't fit the context of weather. While the kanji contributes to the meaning, the primary interpretation in 豪雨 is simply the intensity of the rain itself, not necessarily a heroic act. Finally, learners might forget that 豪雨 is a noun and try to use it as an adjective without proper grammatical structure. For example, saying 豪雨な天気 (gōu na tenki - heavy rain weather) is incorrect; it should be something like 豪雨の天気 (gōu no tenki - weather of heavy rain) or more naturally, 豪雨に見舞われた天気 (gōu ni mimawareta tenki - weather struck by heavy rain).
- Overuse for Light Rain
- Using 豪雨 to describe anything less than a downpour. For instance, describing a regular rainy day as 豪雨 is an exaggeration and incorrect.
- Incorrect Particle Usage
- Confusing particles like 'で' (cause) and 'を' (direct object) when constructing sentences. The correct usage is typically 豪雨で (due to heavy rain) rather than 豪雨を.
- Misinterpreting Kanji Nuance
- Focusing too much on the 'heroic' or 'overpowering' meaning of 豪 and not on the primary meaning of intense rain.
これは豪雨ではなく、ただの雨です。
Several Japanese words describe rain, each with nuances in intensity and context. Understanding these distinctions is key to using 豪雨 (gōu) appropriately. The most common alternative is 大雨 (ōame). While both translate to 'heavy rain,' 豪雨 generally implies a more extreme, potentially damaging level of rainfall compared to 大雨, which is a broader term for significant rain. Think of 大雨 as 'heavy rain' and 豪雨 as 'downpour' or 'torrential rain.' In everyday conversation, 大雨 might be used more frequently unless the rain is truly exceptional. Another related term is 激しい雨 (hageshii ame), which translates to 'violent rain' or 'fierce rain.' This phrase focuses more on the intensity and force of the falling raindrops themselves, describing the *way* it's raining rather than just the quantity. 豪雨 can certainly involve 激しい雨, but 激しい雨 doesn't necessarily mean a prolonged downpour; it could be a very intense but short shower. For sudden, localized heavy rain, especially in urban areas, 集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu) is used. This term emphasizes that the heavy rain is concentrated in a specific area, often leading to flash floods. It's a more specific type of 豪雨. When referring to rain in general, simply 雨 (ame) is used. This is the most basic term and covers all types of rainfall, from a light drizzle to a heavy downpour. The context will determine the intensity. If you want to describe a very light rain, you might use 小雨 (kosame) or 霧雨 (kirisame) for drizzle. For learners, it's useful to remember that 豪雨 is generally more severe than 大雨, and 激しい雨 describes the *manner* of the rain's fall. 集中豪雨 is a specific type of 豪雨 that is localized. The choice of word depends on the precise meteorological situation you wish to convey.
- 豪雨 (gōu)
- Meaning: Downpour, torrential rain. Implies extreme intensity and volume, often associated with potential disasters.
- 大雨 (ōame)
- Meaning: Heavy rain. A more general term for significant rainfall, less extreme than 豪雨.
- 激しい雨 (hageshii ame)
- Meaning: Violent rain, fierce rain. Focuses on the force and intensity of the falling drops.
- 集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu)
- Meaning: Localized downpour, sudden heavy shower. Emphasizes a concentrated area of intense rain.
- 雨 (ame)
- Meaning: Rain. The general term for any form of precipitation.
昨夜は豪雨だったが、今朝は大雨の予報だ。
How Formal Is It?
Fun Fact
The kanji 豪 (gō) is also used in words like 豪快 (gōkai - hearty, exhilarating) and 豪邸 (gōtei - mansion), suggesting a sense of grandeur or excess. This underlying nuance of 'overwhelming' or 'grand' contributes to the intensity implied by 豪雨.
Pronunciation Guide
- Pronouncing the 'u' sound too strongly.
- Applying incorrect pitch accent, making it sound unnatural.
- Confusing it with similar-sounding words.
Difficulty Rating
CEFR B1 level. The word 豪雨 is frequently encountered in news and weather reports. Understanding its intensity and context is key to comprehension. Learners at this level should be able to grasp its meaning in most common situations.
CEFR B1 level. Learners can use 豪雨 correctly in sentences describing weather events, cause-and-effect relationships, and warnings. Accuracy in particle usage is important.
CEFR B1 level. Learners can use 豪雨 in spoken conversations about weather, sharing experiences, or discussing potential risks. Natural pronunciation and appropriate context are key.
CEFR B1 level. Learners can identify 豪雨 in spoken weather reports, news broadcasts, and everyday conversations, understanding its implication of intense rainfall.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Using で (de) to indicate cause or reason.
豪雨で電車が遅延しました。 (Gōu de densha ga chien shimashita.) The train was delayed due to heavy rain.
Using の (no) to connect nouns, forming descriptive phrases.
昨夜の豪雨はひどかった。 (Sakuyō no gōu wa hidokatta.) Last night's heavy rain was terrible.
Using passive voice (される - sareru) to describe events that happen to something.
この地域はしばしば豪雨に見舞われる。 (Kono chiiki wa shibashiba gōu ni mimawareru.) This region is often struck by heavy rain.
Using ～恐れがある (osore ga aru) to express a risk or fear.
豪雨により、土砂災害の恐れがあります。 (Gōu ni yori, dosha saigai no osore ga arimasu.) Due to the heavy rain, there is a risk of landslides.
Using ～ため (tame) to indicate reason or purpose.
豪雨のため、試合は中止になりました。 (Gōu no tame, shiai wa chūshi ni narimashita.) Due to the heavy rain, the match was canceled.
Examples by Level
雨がたくさん降っています。
It's raining a lot.
This sentence uses 雨 (ame) for rain andたくさん (takusan) for 'a lot'.
傘が必要です。
An umbrella is necessary.
傘 (kasa) means umbrella. 必要 (hitsuyō) means necessary.
外は暗いです。
It's dark outside.
外 (soto) means outside. 暗い (kurai) means dark.
道が濡れています。
The road is wet.
道 (michi) means road. 濡れている (nurete iru) means is wet.
車がゆっくり走っています。
Cars are driving slowly.
車 (kuruma) means car. ゆっくり (yukkuri) means slowly. 走っています (hashitte imasu) means are driving/running.
家に入りましょう。
Let's go inside the house.
家 (ie) means house. 入りましょう (hairimashō) means let's enter.
雨が止みました。
The rain has stopped.
止みました (yamimashita) means stopped.
空が明るくなりました。
The sky has become bright.
空 (sora) means sky. 明るくなりました (akaruku narimashita) means became bright.
昨夜はひどい雨でした。
Last night, it was terrible rain.
ひどい (hidoi) means terrible/awful. This is a step up from 'a lot of rain.'
雨がたくさん降って、洪水になりそうです。
It's raining a lot, and it looks like there will be a flood.
洪水 (kōzui) means flood. ～になりそうです (ni narisō desu) means 'looks like it will become...'
この地域は雨が多いです。
This region has a lot of rain.
地域 (chiiki) means region. 多い (ōi) means many/much.
雨のせいで、外出できませんでした。
Because of the rain, I couldn't go out.
～のせいで (no sei de) means 'because of' (often with negative consequences).
傘を忘れて、ずぶ濡れになりました。
I forgot my umbrella and got soaked.
ずぶ濡れ (zubunure) means soaked.
天気予報では、明日も雨が続くそうです。
According to the weather forecast, it seems the rain will continue tomorrow as well.
天気予報 (tenki yohō) means weather forecast. ～そうです (sō desu) means 'it is said that...'
激しい雨が窓を叩いています。
Violent rain is beating against the window.
激しい (hageshii) means violent/fierce. 叩いています (tataite imasu) means is hitting/knocking.
この時期は雨季で、よく雨が降ります。
This season is the rainy season, and it rains often.
雨季 (uki) means rainy season. よく (yoku) means often.
昨夜の豪雨で、川が氾濫する恐れがあります。
Due to last night's heavy rain, there is a risk of the river flooding.
豪雨 (gōu) is used here. 氾濫 (hanran) means flood/overflow. 恐れがあります (osore ga arimasu) means 'there is a fear/risk.'
この地域は梅雨時期の豪雨に注意が必要です。
This region needs to be cautious of heavy rain during the rainy season.
梅雨時期 (tsuyu jiki) means rainy season. 注意が必要です (chūi ga hitsuyō desu) means 'caution is necessary.'
豪雨のため、多くの道路が通行止めになりました。
Due to the heavy rain, many roads became closed to traffic.
通行止め (tsūkōdome) means closed to traffic.
気象庁は豪雨に関する特別警報を発表しました。
The Japan Meteorological Agency announced a special warning regarding the heavy rain.
気象庁 (kishōchō) means Japan Meteorological Agency. 特別警報 (tokubetsu keihō) means special warning.
豪雨が予想されるため、屋外での活動は控えるべきです。
As heavy rain is expected, outdoor activities should be refrained from.
予想される (yosō sareru) means is expected. 控えるべきです (hikaeru beki desu) means 'should refrain from.'
この山岳地帯では、豪雨による土砂崩れが頻繁に発生します。
In this mountainous region, landslides caused by heavy rain occur frequently.
山岳地帯 (sangaku chiiki) means mountainous region. 土砂崩れ (doshakuzure) means landslide. 頻繁に (hinpan ni) means frequently.
豪雨の後、村は孤立状態になった。
After the heavy rain, the village became isolated.
孤立状態 (koritsu jōtai) means isolated state.
テレビで豪雨のニュースを見て、心配になった。
Seeing the news about the heavy rain on TV made me worried.
心配になった (shinpai ni natta) means became worried.
連日の豪雨により、各地で河川の増水や土砂災害が報告されています。
Due to consecutive days of heavy rain, rising rivers and landslides are being reported in various areas.
連日 (renjitsu) means consecutive days. 各地 (kakuchi) means various places. 増水 (zōsui) means rising water levels.
都市部では、集中豪雨による局地的な浸水被害が懸念されています。
In urban areas, localized flooding damage due to concentrated downpours is a concern.
都市部 (toshibu) means urban areas. 集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu) means localized downpour. 局地的 (kyokuchiteki) means localized. 浸水被害 (shinsui higai) means flood damage. 懸念されています (kenen sarete imasu) means is feared/is a concern.
過去数十年で最も激しい豪雨が観測され、広範囲にわたる影響が出ています。
The most severe heavy rain in decades has been observed, causing widespread effects.
数十年 (sūjūnen) means decades. 最も激しい (mottomo hageshii) means most severe. 観測され (kansoku sare) means was observed. 広範囲 (kōhan'i) means wide area. 影響 (eikyō) means effect/impact.
この豪雨は、気候変動の影響で頻度と強度が増していると考えられています。
This heavy rain is thought to be increasing in frequency and intensity due to the effects of climate change.
気候変動 (kikō hendō) means climate change. 頻度 (hindo) means frequency. 強度 (kyōdo) means intensity. 増している (masu shite iru) means is increasing. 考えられています (kangaerarete imasu) means is thought/considered.
豪雨によるインフラへのダメージを最小限に抑えるための対策が急務です。
Measures to minimize damage to infrastructure caused by heavy rain are urgently needed.
インフラ (infura) means infrastructure. ダメージ (damēji) means damage. 最小限に抑える (saishōgen ni osaeru) means to minimize. 対策 (taisaku) means measures. 急務です (kyūmu desu) means is urgent.
避難指示が出ている地域では、豪雨がさらに激しくなる可能性があるので、速やかな避難が必要です。
In areas where evacuation orders have been issued, rapid evacuation is necessary as the heavy rain may intensify further.
避難指示 (hinan shiji) means evacuation order. 速やかな (sumiyaka na) means prompt/rapid. 避難 (hinan) means evacuation.
豪雨が地域経済に与える長期的な影響についても議論されています。
The long-term impact of heavy rain on the regional economy is also being discussed.
地域経済 (chiiki keizai) means regional economy. 与える (ataeru) means to give/inflict. 長期的 (chōkiteki) means long-term. 議論されています (giron sarete imasu) means is being discussed.
このダムは、過去の豪雨の経験に基づいて設計されました。
This dam was designed based on past experiences with heavy rain.
ダム (damu) means dam. 経験 (keiken) means experience. 基づいて (motodzuite) means based on. 設計されました (sekkei saremashita) means was designed.
予報によると、週末にかけて広範囲で豪雨となる見込みであり、厳重な警戒が呼びかけられています。
According to the forecast, heavy rain is expected over a wide area through the weekend, and strict vigilance is being called for.
週末にかけて (shūmatsu ni kakete) means through the weekend. 見込み (mikomi) means prospect/expectation. 厳重な警戒 (genjū na keikai) means strict vigilance. 呼びかけられています (yobikake rarete imasu) means is being called for.
近年、ゲリラ豪雨と称されるような、短時間で局地的に激甚な雨が頻発する傾向が見られます。
In recent years, there has been a tendency for extremely intense rain, called 'guerrilla downpours,' to occur frequently in localized areas for short periods.
近年 (kinnen) means in recent years. ゲリラ豪雨 (gerira gōu) means guerrilla downpour (a common colloquial term). 激甚な雨 (gekijin na ame) means extremely intense rain. 頻発する (hinpatsu suru) means to occur frequently. 傾向 (keikō) means tendency.
豪雨による河川の氾濫リスクを低減するため、流域全体での総合的な治水対策が求められています。
Comprehensive flood control measures across the entire river basin are required to reduce the risk of river flooding caused by heavy rain.
流域全体 (ryūiki zentai) means entire river basin. 総合的な (sōgōteki na) means comprehensive. 治水対策 (chisui taisaku) means flood control measures. 求められています (motomerarete imasu) means is required/is sought.
地球温暖化が進むにつれて、極端な気象現象、例えば豪雨や干ばつなどの発生頻度が増加すると予測されています。
As global warming progresses, it is predicted that the frequency of extreme weather phenomena, such as heavy rain and droughts, will increase.
地球温暖化 (chikyū ondanka) means global warming. 進むにつれて (susumu ni tsurete) means as it progresses. 極端な (kyokutan na) means extreme. 干ばつ (kanbatsu) means drought.
過去の豪雨災害の教訓を活かし、より強靭な防災・減災システムの構築が急務となっています。
Leveraging the lessons learned from past heavy rain disasters, building a more resilient disaster prevention and mitigation system is an urgent task.
教訓 (kyōkun) means lesson learned. 活かし (ikashi) means leveraging/making use of. 強靭な (kyōjin na) means resilient/robust. 防災・減災システム (bōsai gensai shisutemu) means disaster prevention and mitigation system.
豪雨がもたらすインフラへの被害は、単なる物理的な損害にとどまらず、経済活動や人々の生活にも深刻な影響を及ぼします。
The damage to infrastructure brought about by heavy rain extends beyond mere physical damage, profoundly affecting economic activities and people's lives.
もたらす (motarasu) means to bring about. 単なる～にとどまらず (tannaru ~ ni todomarazu) means 'not limited to just ~'. 深刻な影響を及ぼします (shinkoku na eikyō o oyoboshimasu) means profoundly affects.
地方自治体は、豪雨による避難勧告や指示の発令基準を、より迅速かつ的確に行うための検討を進めています。
Local governments are considering ways to issue evacuation advisories and orders due to heavy rain more promptly and accurately.
地方自治体 (chihō jichitai) means local government. 避難勧告 (hinan kankoku) means evacuation advisory. 発令基準 (hatsurei kijun) means issuance standards. 迅速かつ的確に (jinsoku katsu tekikaku ni) means promptly and accurately. 検討を進めています (kentō o susumete imasu) means are proceeding with consideration.
最新の気象モデルは、豪雨の発生メカニズムをより詳細に解析し、短期的な予測精度の向上に貢献しています。
The latest meteorological models are analyzing the mechanisms of heavy rain occurrence in more detail, contributing to improved short-term prediction accuracy.
最新の (saishin no) means latest. 気象モデル (kishō moderu) means meteorological model. 発生メカニズム (hassei mekanizumu) means occurrence mechanism. 解析し (kaiseki shi) means analyzing. 短期的な予測精度 (tankiteki na yosoku seido) means short-term prediction accuracy. 貢献しています (kōken shite imasu) means is contributing.
異常気象とも言えるほどの豪雨が頻発する現代において、その影響を緩和するための適応策と、根本原因である気候変動の抑制策の両輪での取り組みが不可欠である。
In an era where heavy rain, which can be called abnormal weather, occurs frequently, it is essential to address both adaptation measures to mitigate its impact and mitigation measures for climate change, the root cause.
異常気象 (ijō kishō) means abnormal weather. 緩和する (kanwa suru) means to mitigate. 適応策 (tekiō saku) means adaptation measures. 根本原因 (konpon gen'in) means root cause. 抑制策 (yokusei saku) means mitigation measures. 両輪 (ryōrin) means both wheels (metaphor for two equally important aspects). 不可欠である (fukaketsu de aru) means is indispensable/essential.
観測史上稀に見る豪雨は、既存のインフラの脆弱性を露呈させ、防災計画の見直しを迫る事態となった。
The heavy rain, rarely seen in observed history, exposed the fragility of existing infrastructure, forcing a review of disaster prevention plans.
観測史上稀に見る (kansoku shijō mare ni miru) means rarely seen in observed history. 脆弱性 (zeijakusei) means fragility/vulnerability. 露呈させ (rotei sase) means exposed. 見直しを迫る (minaoshi o semaru) means to force a review. 事態 (jitai) means situation/circumstance.
気候変動シナリオに基づけば、将来的に豪雨の強度と頻度が増大する可能性が高く、これに対応するための長期的な都市計画や土地利用規制の再検討が急務である。
Based on climate change scenarios, the intensity and frequency of heavy rain are likely to increase in the future, making it an urgent task to reconsider long-term urban planning and land-use regulations to cope with this.
気候変動シナリオ (kikō hendō shinario) means climate change scenario. 増大する (zōdai suru) means to increase/grow. 対応する (taiō suru) means to cope with/respond to. 長期的な (chōkiteki na) means long-term. 土地利用規制 (tochi riyō kisei) means land-use regulations. 再検討 (saikentō) means reconsideration.
豪雨が引き起こす複合的な災害、例えば洪水と地滑りが同時に発生するようなケースでは、初動対応の遅れが被害を拡大させる要因となりうる。
In cases where heavy rain triggers complex disasters, such as simultaneous floods and landslides, delays in initial response can exacerbate the damage.
複合的な災害 (fukugōteki na saigai) means complex disaster. 地滑り (jigurri) means landslide. 同時に発生する (dōji ni hassei suru) means to occur simultaneously. 初動対応 (shodō taiō) means initial response. 被害を拡大させる (higai o kakudai saseru) means to expand/exacerbate damage. 要因となりうる (yōin to nariuru) means can become a factor.
持続可能な社会の実現に向け、豪雨などの自然災害に対するレジリエンスを高めるための技術革新と、地域社会との連携強化が不可欠な要素となる。
Towards the realization of a sustainable society, technological innovation to enhance resilience against natural disasters such as heavy rain, and strengthening cooperation with local communities, are indispensable elements.
持続可能な社会 (jizoku kanō na shakai) means sustainable society. 実現 (jitsugen) means realization. レジリエンス (rejiriensu) means resilience. 技術革新 (gijutsu kakushin) means technological innovation. 地域社会 (chiiki shakai) means local community. 連携強化 (renkei kyōka) means strengthening cooperation.
気象学的な観点から見れば、近年の豪雨のパターン変化は、単なる変動の範囲を超え、地球システムの変化を示唆している可能性が高い。
From a meteorological perspective, the change in the pattern of recent heavy rain is highly likely to indicate a shift in the Earth's system, exceeding the scope of mere variability.
気象学的な観点 (kishōgakuteki na kanten) means meteorological perspective. パターン変化 (patān henka) means pattern change. 単なる変動の範囲 (tannaru hendō no han'i) means scope of mere variability. 超え (koe) means exceeding. 地球システム (chikyū shisutemu) means Earth system. 示唆している (shisa shite iru) means is suggesting. 可能性が高い (kanōsei ga takai) means highly likely.
豪雨によるインフラ被害の復旧には莫大な費用と時間を要するため、事前のリスク評価と、それに伴う投資が極めて重要となる。
Restoration of infrastructure damage caused by heavy rain requires enormous costs and time, making prior risk assessment and associated investment extremely important.
復旧 (fukkyū) means restoration/recovery. 莫大な費用 (bakudai na hiyō) means enormous costs. 要するため (yō suru tame) means because it requires. 事前のリスク評価 (jizen no risuku hyōka) means prior risk assessment. それに伴う投資 (sore ni tomonau tōshi) means associated investment. 極めて重要 (kiwamete jūyō) means extremely important.
都市計画においては、過去の豪雨事例を分析し、将来的な降雨量の増加に対応できるような、より強靭で持続可能な都市インフラの構築が求められている。
In urban planning, it is required to build more resilient and sustainable urban infrastructure that can cope with future increases in rainfall, by analyzing past heavy rain case studies.
事例 (jirei) means case study/example. 分析し (bunseki shi) means analyzing. 対応できるような (taiō dekiru yō na) means able to cope with. 持続可能な (jizoku kanō na) means sustainable. 構築 (kōchiku) means construction/building.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— To be struck by heavy rain; to experience heavy rain.
この地域は、夏になるとしばしば豪雨に見舞われる。 (Kono chiiki wa, natsu ni naru to shibashiba gōu ni mimawareru.) This region is often struck by heavy rain when summer arrives.
— Due to heavy rain; because of the heavy rain.
豪雨のため、電車が遅延しました。 (Gōu no tame, densha ga chien shimashita.) Due to the heavy rain, the train was delayed.
— Heavy rain continues.
連日の豪雨が続いており、心配です。 (Renjitsu no gōu ga tsuzuite ori, shinpai desu.) Consecutive days of heavy rain are continuing, and I am worried.
— To be cautious of heavy rain; to watch out for heavy rain.
明日は豪雨に警戒してください。 (Ashita wa gōu ni keikai shite kudasai.) Please be cautious of heavy rain tomorrow.
— To bring about heavy rain.
台風がこの地域に豪雨をもたらした。 (Taifū ga kono chiiki ni gōu o motarashita.) The typhoon brought heavy rain to this region.
— To experience heavy rain.
人生で初めて、このような豪雨を経験しました。 (Jinsei de hajimete, kono yō na gōu o keiken shimashita.) For the first time in my life, I experienced such heavy rain.
— The impact/effect of heavy rain.
豪雨による影響で、多くの地域で停電が発生した。 (Gōu ni yoru eikyō de, ōku no chiiki de teiden ga hassei shita.) Due to the impact of the heavy rain, power outages occurred in many areas.
— To prepare for heavy rain.
豪雨に備えて、食料を買いだめしておいた。 (Gōu ni sonaete, shokuryō o kaidame shite oita.) I stocked up on food in preparation for the heavy rain.
— Fear/risk of heavy rain.
気象庁は、局地的な豪雨の恐れがあると発表した。 (Kishōchō wa, kyokuchiteki na gōu no osore ga aru to happyō shita.) The Japan Meteorological Agency announced that there is a risk of localized heavy rain.
— Violent heavy rain.
昨夜は激しい豪雨で、窓ガラスが割れるかと思った。 (Sakuyō wa hageshii gōu de, madogarasu ga wareru ka to omotta.) Last night there was violent heavy rain, I thought the window panes would break.
Often Confused With
While both mean 'heavy rain,' 豪雨 (gōu) generally implies a more extreme, potentially damaging level of rainfall. 大雨 is a more general term.
This is the general term for 'rain' and can refer to anything from a light drizzle to a downpour. 豪雨 specifically denotes intense rainfall.
This means 'light rain' or 'drizzle,' which is the opposite of the intensity implied by 豪雨.
Idioms & Expressions
— Adding insult to injury; when something bad happens to someone who is already in a bad situation. While not directly about rain, it can be used to describe a situation made worse by heavy rain.
洪水で家が流された上に、さらに豪雨で避難生活が長引いた。まさに泣きっ面に蜂だ。 (Kōzui de ie ga nagasareta ue ni, sara ni gōu de hinan seikatsu ga nagabita. Masani nakitsura ni hachi da.) On top of their house being washed away by the flood, their life in evacuation was prolonged by the heavy rain. It's truly adding insult to injury.
Informal— After a storm comes a calm; things become stronger after difficulties. Similar to the idiom above, it relates to overcoming hardship, which can be associated with surviving heavy rain events.
今回の豪雨災害は大変だったが、地域住民の絆が強まった。まさに雨降って地固まるだ。 (Konkai no gōu saigai wa taihen datta ga, chiiki jūmin no kizuna ga tsuyomatta. Masani ame futte ji katamaru da.) This heavy rain disaster was terrible, but the bond between the local residents has strengthened. It's truly 'after the rain comes the calm.'
Proverbial— To desperately want something; to be dying to have something. This idiom is not directly related to weather but can be used in contexts where someone is suffering from the effects of heavy rain.
長引く豪雨で外に出られない日々が続き、暖かい日差しが喉から手が出るほど恋しい。 (Nagabiku gōu de soto ni derarenai hibi ga tsuzuki, atatakai hizashi ga nodo kara te ga deru hodo koishii.) Due to the prolonged heavy rain, days of being unable to go outside continue, and I long for warm sunshine as if my throat is sticking out.
Informal— To be flooded; to be soaked. While not an idiom, it's a common descriptive phrase used in conjunction with heavy rain.
豪雨で庭が水浸しになった。 (Gōu de niwa ga mizutashi ni natta.) The garden became flooded due to the heavy rain.
Descriptive— Pouring rain. This is a colloquial term for heavy rain, often used informally.
傘があっても無駄なくらいの土砂降りだった。 (Kasa ga atte mo muda na kurai no doshaburi datta.) It was pouring rain to the point that even having an umbrella was useless.
InformalEasily Confused
Both words translate to 'heavy rain' and are used to describe significant precipitation.
豪雨 (gōu) typically denotes a more extreme, potentially hazardous level of rainfall, often associated with downpours or torrential rain. It implies a greater volume and intensity that can cause significant disruption or damage. 大雨 (ōame) is a broader term for heavy rain and might not necessarily carry the same implication of extreme danger or overwhelming volume.
昨夜は<strong>豪雨</strong>で大変だったが、今朝は<strong>大雨</strong>の予報だ。 (Sakuyō wa gōu de taihen datta ga, kesa wa ōame no yohō da.) Last night was terrible due to the <strong>downpour</strong>, but the forecast for this morning is <strong>heavy rain</strong>.
Both describe intense rainfall.
激しい雨 (hageshii ame) focuses more on the *manner* of the rain – its force, violence, and the intensity of the falling drops. It describes how the rain is falling. 豪雨 (gōu), on the other hand, refers to the *quantity* and overall intensity of the rainfall over a period, implying a significant amount and potential for flooding or disruption. You can have 激しい雨 within a 豪雨, but 激しい雨 doesn't necessarily mean a prolonged 豪雨.
窓を<strong>激しい雨</strong>が叩いていた。これは<strong>豪雨</strong>になるかもしれない。 (Mado o hageshii ame ga tataite ita. Kore wa gōu ni naru kamoshirenai.) <strong>Violent rain</strong> was beating against the window. This might turn into a <strong>downpour</strong>.
It's a common, informal term for very heavy rain.
土砂降り (doshaburi) is a more colloquial and informal expression for extremely heavy rain, akin to 'pouring rain' or 'raining cats and dogs' in English. While it conveys significant intensity, 豪雨 (gōu) is a more formal and technical term, often used in official weather reports and news, implying a level of rainfall that could cause serious consequences like floods or landslides. You might use 土砂降り in casual conversation, but 豪雨 is preferred in more serious or official contexts.
外は<strong>土砂降り</strong>だから、傘があっても濡れるよ。<strong>豪雨</strong>警報が出ているらしい。 (Soto wa doshaburi da kara, kasa ga atte mo nureru yo. Gōu keihō ga deru rashii.) It's <strong>pouring</strong> outside, so you'll get wet even with an umbrella. Apparently, a <strong>heavy rain warning</strong> has been issued.
It contains the word 豪雨 and refers to heavy rain.
集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu) is a specific type of 豪雨 (gōu) that is localized and often sudden. It emphasizes that the heavy rain is concentrated in a particular area, leading to flash floods or rapid water accumulation. While 豪雨 refers to heavy rain in general, 集中豪雨 pinpoints a specific phenomenon of intense, localized downpours, often associated with urban flooding.
都市部では<strong>集中豪雨</strong>が起こりやすい。 (Toshibu de wa shūchūgōu ga okori yasui.) In urban areas, <strong>localized downpours</strong> tend to occur.
Both relate to bad weather conditions.
荒天 (kōten) is a general term for 'stormy weather' or 'inclement weather.' It encompasses a range of severe conditions, which *can* include heavy rain (豪雨), but also strong winds, thunderstorms, snowstorms, etc. 豪雨 specifically refers to the intensity of the rainfall itself. You might experience 荒天 that includes 豪雨, but 豪雨 doesn't necessarily mean 荒天 (e.g., a heavy rain without strong winds could still be 豪雨 but not necessarily 荒天).
<strong>荒天</strong>のため、多くのフライトが欠航した。 (Kōten no tame, ōku no furaito ga kekkō shita.) Due to <strong>stormy weather</strong>, many flights were canceled.
Sentence Patterns
Noun + は + 豪雨 + で (de) + Verb/Adjective.
昨日の天気は<strong>豪雨で</strong>ひどかった。 (Kinō no tenki wa gōu de hidokatta.) Yesterday's weather was terrible <strong>due to heavy rain</strong>.
豪雨 + の (no) + Noun.
<strong>豪雨の</strong>影響で、多くの電車が遅れた。 (Gōu no eikyō de, ōku no densha ga okureta.) Many trains were delayed <strong>due to the heavy rain</strong>.
Noun + が + 豪雨 + に見舞われる (ni mimawareru).
この地域はしばしば<strong>豪雨に見舞われる</strong>。 (Kono chiiki wa shibashiba gōu ni mimawareru.) This region is often <strong>struck by heavy rain</strong>.
豪雨 + により (ni yori) + Noun + が + Verb.
<strong>豪雨により</strong>、道路が通行止めになった。 (Gōu ni yori, dōro ga tsūkōdome ni natta.) <strong>Due to the heavy rain</strong>, the roads were closed to traffic.
Noun + は + 豪雨 + が予想される (ga yosō sareru).
明日は<strong>豪雨が予想される</strong>ので、注意が必要です。 (Ashita wa gōu ga yosō sareru node, chūi ga hitsuyō desu.) <strong>Heavy rain is expected</strong> tomorrow, so caution is necessary.
Noun + と称される + 豪雨 + が + Verb.
近年、ゲリラ<strong>豪雨</strong>と称される現象が観測されている。 (Kinnen, gerira gōu to shōsareru genshō ga kansoku sarete iru.) In recent years, a phenomenon referred to as 'guerrilla <strong>downpours</strong>' has been observed.
豪雨 + による + Noun + の + 影響 + が + Verb.
<strong>豪雨による</strong>インフラへの<strong>影響</strong>は甚大だ。 (Gōu ni yoru infura e no eikyō wa jindai da.) The <strong>impact of the heavy rain</strong> on infrastructure is immense.
Noun + に対応する + ための + 豪雨 + 対策.
将来の<strong>豪雨</strong>に<strong>対応する</strong>ための<strong>対策</strong>が急務である。 (Shōrai no gōu ni taiō suru tame no taisaku ga kyūmu de aru.) <strong>Measures</strong> to <strong>cope with</strong> future <strong>heavy rain</strong> are an urgent task.
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Adjectives
Related
How to Use It
High, especially in weather-related contexts and news.
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Using 豪雨 (gōu) for light rain.
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Using 雨 (ame) for general rain or 小雨 (kosame) for light rain/drizzle.
豪雨 specifically denotes intense, voluminous rainfall. Using it for a light shower would be an exaggeration and incorrect. For example, saying '豪雨が降っている' when it's just drizzling is wrong.
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Incorrect particle usage, e.g., using を (o) instead of で (de) for cause.
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Use で (de) to indicate the cause of an event. For example, '豪雨で電車が遅れた' (Gōu de densha ga okureta - The train was delayed due to heavy rain).
The particle で (de) is used to indicate the cause or means by which something happens. Using を (o) incorrectly makes the sentence grammatically unsound.
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Confusing 豪雨 (gōu) with 大雨 (ōame) in terms of intensity.
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Use 豪雨 (gōu) for more extreme downpours and 大雨 (ōame) for general heavy rain.
While both mean heavy rain, 豪雨 implies a higher level of intensity and potential danger. 大雨 is a more general term. Understanding this nuance is important for accurate communication.
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Trying to use 豪雨 as an adjective without proper conjugation.
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Use it as a noun, often followed by の (no) when modifying another noun (e.g., 豪雨の日 - gōu no hi - a day of heavy rain) or used with particles like で (de) to indicate cause.
豪雨 is a noun. Directly attaching な (na) like an i-adjective or na-adjective is incorrect. For example, '豪雨な天気' is wrong; it should be '豪雨の天気' or '豪雨に見舞われた天気'.
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Mispronouncing the word, especially the stress or vowel sounds.
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Pronounce it as 'gō-u,' with the stress on the first syllable 'gō.'
Incorrect pronunciation can lead to misunderstanding. Pay attention to native speaker pronunciation to ensure clarity.
Tips
Kanji Clues
The kanji 豪 (gō) means 'overpowering' or 'grand,' and 雨 (u) means 'rain.' Together, 豪雨 (gōu) literally means 'overpowering rain,' which helps convey its intensity.
Stress and Pitch
Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable: 豪 (gō). The 'u' sound is short and unstressed. Practicing with native speakers or audio resources will help you achieve natural pronunciation.
Cause and Effect
Commonly used with particles like で (de) to indicate cause: 豪雨で (gōu de - due to heavy rain). For example, 豪雨で道路が寸断された (Gōu de dōro ga sundan sareta - The roads were cut off due to heavy rain).
Mnemonics
Imagine a 'go' cart (豪 - gō) being completely overwhelmed and submerged by a massive amount of rain (雨 - u). This vivid image can help you remember the meaning of 'overpowering rain'.
Disaster Preparedness
In Japan, understanding terms like 豪雨 is crucial for disaster preparedness (防災 - bōsai). It's frequently mentioned in weather warnings and news related to typhoons and heavy rainfall seasons.
豪雨 vs. 大雨
While both mean heavy rain, 豪雨 (gōu) implies a more extreme, potentially dangerous downpour, whereas 大雨 (ōame) is a more general term for significant rainfall.
Listen to Weather Reports
Tune into Japanese weather forecasts or news segments discussing severe weather. This will expose you to natural usage of 豪雨 in context and help you understand its nuances.
Sentence Building
Practice writing sentences describing the impact of heavy rain, using phrases like 豪雨のため (gōu no tame - due to heavy rain) or 豪雨により (gōu ni yori - caused by heavy rain).
Related Terms
Expand your vocabulary by learning related terms like 集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu - localized downpour) and 災害 (saigai - disaster) to discuss weather events more comprehensively.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a 'go' cart (豪 - gō) being completely overwhelmed and submerged by a massive amount of rain (雨 - u). The 'go' cart is tiny and helpless against the 'overpowering' rain.
Visual Association
Picture a cartoon character named 'Gō' who is a superhero. He's trying to stop a giant water hose spraying enormous amounts of water (representing 豪雨) from flooding a city. The 'ō' in 'gō' can remind you of the 'oh no!' reaction to such heavy rain.
Word Web
Challenge
Try to describe a recent severe weather event you experienced or heard about, using the word 豪雨. Focus on conveying the intensity and impact.
Word Origin
The word 豪雨 (gōu) is composed of two kanji: 豪 (gō) and 雨 (u). The kanji 豪 originates from Chinese and historically carried meanings related to 'heroic,' 'chivalrous,' or 'overpowering.' In modern Japanese, it often implies something grand, overwhelming, or excessive. The kanji 雨 (u) simply means 'rain.' Together, they form a compound word that vividly describes rain that is overpowering or excessive in its intensity and volume.
Original meaning: The original Chinese character 豪 conveyed a sense of strength, dominance, or abundance. When combined with 雨 (rain), it naturally evolved to mean rain that is overwhelmingly strong or abundant.
Sino-Japanese (derived from Chinese characters)Cultural Context
The term 豪雨 itself is neutral and descriptive. However, discussions surrounding it can be sensitive due to the potential for loss of life, property damage, and displacement caused by the associated disasters. It's important to use the term respectfully, especially when referring to actual events.
In English-speaking countries, terms like 'heavy rain,' 'downpour,' 'torrential rain,' and 'deluge' are used. While 'heavy rain' is common, 'downpour' and 'deluge' convey a similar sense of intensity to 豪雨.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Weather Forecasts
- 豪雨の予報です。
- 豪雨に注意してください。
- 記録的な豪雨となる恐れがあります。
News Reports on Natural Disasters
- 豪雨により、〇〇地方で被害が発生しました。
- 豪雨災害からの復旧作業が進められています。
- 専門家は、豪雨の頻度増加について警告しています。
Personal Anecdotes about Weather
- 昨夜はひどい豪雨だった。
- 豪雨で外出できなかった。
- こんな豪雨は初めてだ。
Disaster Preparedness Discussions
- 豪雨に備える必要があります。
- 豪雨対策が急務です。
- 避難勧告が出されました。豪雨に警戒してください。
Discussions about Climate Change
- 気候変動は豪雨を増加させる可能性がある。
- 豪雨の頻度が増えている。
- 異常気象としての豪雨について議論されている。
Conversation Starters
"Have you experienced any heavy rain (豪雨) recently where you are?"
"What kind of precautions do you usually take when there's a forecast for heavy rain (豪雨)?"
"How does heavy rain (豪雨) typically affect daily life in Japan?"
"What are some common phrases used to describe heavy rain (豪雨) in Japanese?"
"Do you think heavy rain (豪雨) events are becoming more frequent?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you experienced heavy rain (豪雨) and how it impacted you or your surroundings.
Imagine you are a weather reporter. Write a short report about an impending heavy rain (豪雨) event, including warnings and advice.
Discuss the potential long-term effects of increasingly frequent heavy rain (豪雨) on society and the environment.
Write a fictional story where heavy rain (豪雨) plays a significant role in the plot.
Reflect on the Japanese cultural attitudes towards natural phenomena like heavy rain (豪雨) and disaster preparedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questionsWhile both translate to 'heavy rain,' 豪雨 (gōu) generally implies a more extreme, potentially hazardous level of rainfall, often associated with downpours or torrential rain. It suggests a greater volume and intensity that can cause significant disruption or damage. 大雨 (ōame) is a broader term for heavy rain and might not necessarily carry the same implication of extreme danger or overwhelming volume. Think of 豪雨 as a 'downpour' and 大雨 as 'heavy rain'.
You should use 豪雨 (gōu) when the rain is exceptionally intense and voluminous, far beyond a normal shower. If it's just raining normally, use 雨 (ame). If it's a significant amount of rain that might cause problems like flooding or make travel difficult, then 豪雨 is appropriate.
Yes, 豪雨 (gōu) is common during the rainy season (梅雨 - tsuyu) in early summer (June-July) and during typhoon season (typically August to October). These periods often bring prolonged periods of heavy rainfall and intense downpours.
豪雨 (gōu) can cause various types of damage, including floods (洪水 - kōzui), landslides (土砂崩れ - doshakuzure), mudslides, damage to infrastructure like roads and bridges, power outages, and agricultural damage. It can also disrupt transportation and daily life.
豪雨 (gōu) is generally considered a formal or neutral term. It is commonly used in weather reports, news broadcasts, and official warnings. For very informal situations, people might use 土砂降り (doshaburi) to describe extremely heavy rain.
One way is to associate 豪 (gō) with 'overpowering' or 'grand.' Imagine rain that is so 'overpowering' it's like a deluge. The kanji 雨 (u) simply means 'rain.' So, 豪雨 is 'overpowering rain.' You can also visualize a 'go' cart being submerged by a massive amount of rain.
Common phrases include 豪雨警報 (gōu keihō - heavy rain warning), 豪雨対策 (gōu taisaku - measures against heavy rain), 豪雨被害 (gōu higai - damage from heavy rain), and 豪雨に見舞われる (gōu ni mimawareru - to be struck by heavy rain).
While there isn't a single universal numerical definition that applies everywhere, 豪雨 (gōu) refers to rainfall that is significantly above normal levels and is considered intense enough to potentially cause problems. Official warnings often specify rainfall amounts or rates (e.g., 'over X mm per hour') that are classified as 豪雨.
No, 豪雨 (gōu) specifically refers to heavy *rain*. For heavy snowfall, you would use terms like 大雪 (ōyuki - heavy snow) or 猛吹雪 (mōfubuki - blizzard).
集中豪雨 (shūchūgōu) is a specific type of 豪雨 (gōu) that is localized and often sudden. It means 'localized downpour' or 'concentrated heavy rain,' and it's often associated with flash floods, especially in urban areas.
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Summary
豪雨 (gōu) is a crucial term for understanding severe weather in Japanese, signifying intense, voluminous rainfall that can lead to significant disruptions and dangers like flooding.
- 豪雨 (gōu) means heavy rain or downpour.
- It describes intense, voluminous rainfall.
- Used in weather reports and news about severe weather.
- Implies potential for flooding and disruption.
Kanji Clues
The kanji 豪 (gō) means 'overpowering' or 'grand,' and 雨 (u) means 'rain.' Together, 豪雨 (gōu) literally means 'overpowering rain,' which helps convey its intensity.
Context is Key
Use 豪雨 (gōu) when the rain is significantly intense and potentially disruptive. For less severe heavy rain, 大雨 (ōame) might be more appropriate. Avoid using it for light showers.
Stress and Pitch
Pay attention to the stress on the first syllable: 豪 (gō). The 'u' sound is short and unstressed. Practicing with native speakers or audio resources will help you achieve natural pronunciation.
Cause and Effect
Commonly used with particles like で (de) to indicate cause: 豪雨で (gōu de - due to heavy rain). For example, 豪雨で道路が寸断された (Gōu de dōro ga sundan sareta - The roads were cut off due to heavy rain).
Example
昨夜は豪雨に見舞われた。
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