This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun #2,716 most common 11 min read

温度

ondo Top 2,716

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 温度 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 温度 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you should focus on the most basic use of 温度 (Ondo). Think of it as the word you use to talk about things being 'hot' or 'cold' in a measurable way. You will mostly use it with the words 高い (takai - high) and 低い (hikui - low). For example, if you are drinking tea and it's too hot, or if the room feels cold, you can mention the 'ondo.' At this stage, you don't need to worry about complex science. Just remember that in Japanese, we don't say 'the temperature is hot'; we say 'the temperature is high.' This is a very common pattern for beginners to learn. You might also see this word on a remote control for an air conditioner. It's a great 'survival' word because it helps you ask for comfort in a Japanese home or hotel. Focus on simple sentences like 'What is the temperature?' (温度は何ですか？) or 'The temperature is 20 degrees' (温度は20度です). By the end of A1, you should be able to recognize the kanji characters for 'Ondo' and use them to talk about your immediate environment.

At the A2 level, you begin to use 温度 (Ondo) in more practical, daily situations. You will start using verbs like 上げる (ageru - to raise) and 下げる (sageru - to lower) to control your environment. For instance, 'Please lower the temperature' (温度を下げてください). You also learn to distinguish between Ondo and Kion (weather temperature). At A2, you should understand that while you use Ondo for the heater or the oven, you use Kion for the snow or the sun outside. You will also start encountering compound words like 設定温度 (settei ondo), which means the 'set temperature' on a machine. This is very useful when staying in Japan and using appliances. You might also use it in basic cooking contexts, like checking if the oil is ready for frying. The goal at A2 is to move beyond just describing a state to actually making requests or giving simple instructions involving temperature changes.

At the B1 level, your use of 温度 (Ondo) becomes more precise and varied. You will start using the intransitive verbs 上がる (agaru - to rise) and 下がる (sagaru - to fall) to describe natural changes. For example, 'The temperature rose suddenly' (温度が急に上がった). You also begin to use Ondo in more 'serious' or hobby-related contexts. If you like gardening, you might talk about the soil temperature. If you like coffee, you might discuss the best temperature for brewing beans. You will also learn about the word's metaphorical use, such as 温度差 (ondo-sa), which describes a difference in enthusiasm or perspective between people. This shows you are moving beyond literal physical descriptions into more abstract Japanese. You should also be comfortable using terms like 適温 (teku-on - suitable temperature) and 一定 (ittei - constant). At this stage, you can explain why a certain temperature is necessary for a process, such as keeping food fresh or ensuring a chemical reaction works correctly in a school experiment.

At the B2 level, you use 温度 (Ondo) in professional and academic settings. You are expected to understand its role in complex systems. You might discuss 温度管理 (ondo kanri - temperature management) in the context of food safety or logistics. You will encounter the word in news articles about 地球温暖化 (chikyuu ondanka - global warming), where it refers to the average global temperature. At this level, you should be able to use more advanced adjectives like 最適 (saiteki - optimal) or 異常 (ijou - abnormal) to describe temperature states. You can participate in discussions about climate change or energy efficiency, using Ondo as a key piece of technical vocabulary. You should also be aware of the nuances between Ondo and other related terms like Netsudo (degree of heat) or Suion (water temperature) and choose the correct one instinctively. Your ability to use the word in formal reports or business presentations is a hallmark of the B2 level.

At the C1 level, you have a sophisticated command of 温度 (Ondo), including its most subtle metaphorical and technical applications. You can use it to describe the 'social temperature' of a room or the 'political temperature' of a nation's debate. You understand how the choice of Ondo over more specific terms like Kion can change the tone of a sentence from casual to scientific. You are comfortable with idiomatic expressions like 温度を測る (ondo o hakaru), which can mean 'measuring the temperature' literally or 'testing the waters' metaphorically in a negotiation. At this level, you can read and understand complex scientific papers or industrial manuals where Ondo is used in the context of thermodynamics or precision engineering. You also appreciate the linguistic history of the word and how it fits into the broader system of 'On-yomi' compounds in Japanese. Your usage is indistinguishable from a native speaker, even in highly specialized or poetic contexts.

At the C2 level, your mastery of 温度 (Ondo) is complete and effortless. You can explore the philosophical implications of 'temperature' in Japanese literature or high-level academic discourse. You might analyze how authors use Ondo to create atmosphere or symbolize emotional distance. You are capable of translating complex English technical documents about thermal dynamics into natural, professional Japanese, selecting the perfect synonyms and related terms for every specific nuance. You can debate the ethics of 'ondo kanri' in the environment or the workplace with total fluency. At this stage, the word is no longer just a vocabulary item; it is a versatile tool that you can manipulate to express the most minute differences in meaning, whether you are writing a scientific thesis, a legal contract, or a piece of creative fiction. You have a deep understanding of how Ondo interacts with the Japanese worldview of harmony, precision, and the relationship between humans and their physical environment.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

温度 in 30 Seconds

Ondo means general physical temperature in Japanese.
Use 'takai' (high) or 'hikui' (low) to describe it.
Avoid using it for weather (use kion) or fevers (use netsu).
Common in cooking, science, and controlling household appliances.

The Japanese word 温度 (おんど - Ondo) is a fundamental noun used to describe the physical state of heat or coldness in an object, substance, or environment. While English uses the word 'temperature' for almost everything, Japanese speakers often distinguish between the general concept of physical temperature and more specific types, such as atmospheric temperature (気温 - kion) or body temperature (体温 - taion). However, 温度 remains the umbrella term used in scientific, technical, and general daily contexts when referring to the measurable degree of heat.

Scientific Context: In laboratory settings or industrial manufacturing, 温度 refers to the precise measurement of thermal energy. It is the standard term used in physics and chemistry textbooks.

The kanji composition provides deep insight into its meaning. The first character, 温 (on), represents 'warmth' or 'gentleness,' often associated with hot water or the sun. The second character, 度 (do), translates to 'degree,' 'measure,' or 'frequency.' Together, they literally mean the 'degree of warmth.' This logical construction makes it easy for learners to remember that the word refers to a measurable scale of heat. In Japan, the Celsius scale is used exclusively for daily measurements, so when someone speaks about 温度, they are thinking in degrees Celsius (°C).

この部屋の温度はちょうどいいです。(The temperature of this room is just right.)

Culturally, the concept of 温度 extends beyond physical heat. It is frequently used in cooking instructions, where maintaining the correct oil temperature (油の温度 - abura no ondo) is crucial for making perfect tempura. It is also used when discussing the 'temperature' of a liquid, such as tea or bathwater, though 'suion' (water temperature) is a more specific alternative. Understanding the breadth of this word involves recognizing that while it is a scientific term, it is deeply embedded in the sensory experience of Japanese daily life, from the precise heat of a 'washlet' toilet seat to the climate control of a high-speed Shinkansen train.

Social Metaphor: 温度 is sometimes used metaphorically to describe the 'warmth' or 'coolness' of a reaction or a relationship. For example, '温度差' (ondo-sa) refers to a difference in enthusiasm between two people.

お湯の温度を測ってください。(Please measure the temperature of the hot water.)

In the modern digital age, you will see 温度 on smartphone apps, digital thermometers, and air conditioner remotes. It is a word that bridges the gap between high-level science and the most basic human needs for comfort. Whether you are adjusting your refrigerator settings or discussing global warming (地球温暖化 - chikyuu ondanka), this word is your primary tool for navigating thermal concepts in Japanese.

適切な温度で保存してください。(Please store it at an appropriate temperature.)

Technical Precision: In engineering, '温度管理' (ondo kanri) or temperature management is a critical field, ensuring that machinery does not overheat and products are manufactured consistently.

設定温度を25度にします。(I will set the temperature to 25 degrees.)

By mastering 温度, you unlock the ability to communicate about comfort, safety, and science. It is one of the first abstract nouns a student learns, yet its applications continue to grow in complexity as you advance into specialized fields of study or professional work in Japan.

Using 温度 correctly involves understanding its relationship with verbs and adjectives. The most common way to describe temperature is by using the adjectives 高い (takai - high) and 低い (hikui - low). Unlike English, where we might say 'the temperature is hot,' in Japanese, it is more natural to say 'the temperature is high' (温度が高い). This distinction is vital for sounding like a native speaker.

Describing State: To say 'The temperature is [adjective],' use the pattern: [Subject] + の + 温度 + は + [Adjective] + です。

水面の温度は非常に低いです。(The temperature of the water surface is very low.)

When you want to talk about changing the temperature, you use verbs like 上げる (ageru - to raise) and 下げる (sageru - to lower). These are transitive verbs, meaning you (the subject) are performing the action on the temperature. If the temperature changes on its own, you use the intransitive versions: 上がる (agaru - to rise) and 下がる (sagaru - to fall). This grammatical distinction is a common hurdle for learners but is essential for accurate communication.

Another important verb associated with 温度 is 測る (hakaru - to measure). Whether you are using a thermometer for a science experiment or checking if a baby's milk is too hot, this is the verb you need. Additionally, 保つ (tamotsu - to maintain) is used when you need to keep the temperature steady, which is common in medical or culinary contexts.

エアコンで室内の温度を一定に保ちます。(Maintain a constant indoor temperature with the air conditioner.)

Measuring and Checking: Use '測る' (hakaru) for the act of measurement and '確認する' (kakunin suru) for checking the current value.

In more advanced usage, you might encounter compound nouns. 設定温度 (settei ondo) refers to the 'set temperature' on a device. 適温 (teku-on) is a shorthand for 'suitable temperature.' Understanding these compounds allows for more concise and professional-sounding Japanese. For instance, in a restaurant, a waiter might ensure the sake is served at the 適温.

料理によって最適な温度が異なります。(The optimal temperature varies depending on the dish.)

Lastly, the concept of 温度調整 (ondo chousei) or 'temperature adjustment' is frequently seen on control panels. Whether you are in a Japanese hotel room trying to figure out the shower or using a microwave, recognizing these kanji characters will help you navigate the interface successfully. The word 温度 is truly a workhorse of the Japanese language, appearing in every level of speech from casual home life to specialized academic research.

Metaphorical Use: You can say '彼らの関係には温度差がある' (There is a 'temperature difference' in their relationship), meaning one person is more invested than the other.

The word 温度 is ubiquitous in Japan, and you will encounter it in several distinct environments. One of the most common places is in the weather forecast. While the announcer will use '気温' (kion) for the air temperature, they often use '温度' when discussing the temperature of the ocean or the ground. In summer, you will hear warnings about '温度上昇' (rise in temperature) in relation to heatstroke prevention.

Public Transportation: On Japanese trains, announcements often mention that the '温度管理' (temperature control) is being adjusted for passenger comfort. You might even see '弱冷房車' (mildly air-conditioned cars) where the temperature is set slightly higher.

車内の温度を調整しております。(We are adjusting the temperature inside the train.)

In the kitchen, the word is indispensable. If you watch Japanese cooking shows or follow recipes on sites like Cookpad, you will constantly see references to the '油の温度' (oil temperature) or 'オーブンの温度' (oven temperature). Precision is a hallmark of Japanese cuisine, and maintaining the exact 温度 is seen as a sign of a skilled chef. In a sushi restaurant, the temperature of the rice (shari) is carefully monitored to be at body temperature for the best flavor.

Another fascinating place you will hear this word is in traditional Japanese baths (Sento or Onsen). While the general term for hot water is 'o-yu,' the specific heat of the water is always referred to as the 'お湯の温度.' Many baths have digital displays showing the current temperature, usually around 40°C to 42°C. Locals might comment, '今日の温度はちょうどいいね' (Today's temperature is just right, isn't it?).

お風呂の温度は42度に設定されています。(The bath temperature is set to 42 degrees.)

Workplace and Industry: In Japanese offices, the 'Cool Biz' campaign encourages companies to keep the '温度設定' of air conditioners at 28°C during the summer to save energy. This leads to many office discussions about the 温度 being too high or too low.

In retail environments, especially pharmacies or electronics stores, you will see '温度計' (thermometers) for sale. The packaging will describe the device's ability to measure '室温' (room temperature) and '湿度' (humidity), with 温度 being the primary feature. From the high-tech sensors in a factory to the simple thermometer on a balcony, 温度 is a word that Japanese people interact with multiple times a day.

このワインは適切な温度で冷やされています。(This wine is chilled at the appropriate temperature.)

In summary, whether you are listening to a news report about global warming, following a recipe for tempura, or simply trying to stay comfortable in your apartment, the word 温度 is an essential part of the Japanese auditory landscape. Paying attention to how it is used in these different contexts will greatly improve your situational fluency.

Learning 温度 seems straightforward, but there are several pitfalls that English speakers frequently fall into. The most common mistake is using 温度 when you should use 気温 (kion). While 'temperature' covers both in English, Japanese makes a strict distinction: 気温 is specifically for the air temperature outside (weather), while 温度 is for the temperature of objects, liquids, or general physical properties.

Mistake: Weather: Incorrect: 今日の温度は30度です (Today's 'ondo' is 30 degrees).
Correct: 今日の気温は30度です (Today's 'kion' is 30 degrees).

外の気温をチェックしましょう。(Let's check the outside temperature [kion].)

Another major error is using 温度 to describe a human fever. In English, we say 'My temperature is high.' In Japanese, you must use 熱 (netsu). If you say '私の温度が高い' (watashi no ondo ga takai), it sounds like you are a piece of machinery or a scientific specimen that has been heated up, rather than a person with a fever.

A third mistake involves the choice of adjectives. As mentioned before, you should use 高い (high) and 低い (low) with 温度. Avoid using 暑い (atsui - hot weather) or 熱い (atsui - hot to touch) directly with the word 温度. You don't say 'the temperature is hot' (温度が熱い); you say 'the temperature is high' (温度が高い).

Mistake: Adjective Choice: Incorrect: 温度が暑い (The temperature is hot weather).
Correct: 温度が高い (The temperature is high).

お湯の温度が低すぎます。(The water temperature is too low.)

Furthermore, learners often confuse the transitive and intransitive verbs for changing temperature. If you want to tell someone to turn down the heat, use 温度を下げて (Ondo o sagete). If you notice the temperature is dropping naturally, you say 温度が下がっている (Ondo ga sagatte iru). Mixing these up can make your sentences sound grammatically awkward or even change the meaning entirely.

Finally, be careful with the word 温室 (onshitsu). While it contains the 'on' kanji from 温度, it means 'greenhouse.' Some learners accidentally use this when trying to say 'room temperature' (which is 室温 - shitsuon). These small nuances are the difference between being understood and sounding truly proficient in Japanese.

While 温度 is the general term for temperature, Japanese has a rich vocabulary of more specific words that you should use depending on the context. Using these more precise terms will instantly elevate your Japanese level and make your descriptions more accurate.

気温 (Kion) vs. 温度 (Ondo): 気温 is strictly for the atmospheric air temperature. If you're looking at a weather app, you're looking at 気温. 温度 is the physical property of any matter.

今日の気温は昨日より高い。(Today's air temperature is higher than yesterday's.)

When talking about water, 水温 (Suion) is the preferred term. This is used for swimming pools, the ocean, or the water in a fish tank. If you are specifically talking about the temperature of the water you are about to bathe in or drink, you might use 'お湯の温度,' but in a scientific or hobbyist context (like keeping tropical fish), 水温 is the standard.

体温 (Taion) vs. 熱 (Netsu): 体温 is the medical term for 'body temperature.' 熱 usually refers to a fever or heat in a more general, often non-measured sense.

毎朝体温を測っています。(I measure my body temperature every morning.)

Inside a building, you might use 室温 (Shitsuon), which literally means 'room temperature.' While you can say '部屋の温度' (heya no ondo), 室温 is more formal and commonly used in instructions (e.g., 'Leave at room temperature'). If you are talking about the degree of heat or passion in a situation, you might use 熱度 (Netsudo), though this is less common than the metaphorical 'ondo-sa' mentioned earlier.

Other technical terms include 高温 (kouon - high temperature) and 低温 (teion - low temperature). These are often used as prefixes. For example, '低温殺菌' (teion sakkin) means pasteurization (literally 'low-temperature sterilization'). In a more poetic or literary sense, ぬくもり (nukumori) refers to a gentle, human warmth that cannot be measured by a thermometer, contrasting with the clinical 温度.

この牛乳は低温で殺菌されています。(This milk is pasteurized at a low temperature.)

Comparison Table

温度 (Ondo): General physical temperature.
気温 (Kion): Weather/Air temperature.
水温 (Suion): Water temperature.
体温 (Taion): Human body temperature.
室温 (Shitsuon): Room temperature.

By choosing the right word from this list, you demonstrate a nuanced understanding of the Japanese language and its focus on context-specific vocabulary.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The kanji '温' originally depicted water being warmed by the sun or a person in a tub. The character '度' originally represented a hand measuring something with a tool.

Pronunciation Guide

UK ɒndəʊ

US ɑndoʊ

Flat (Heiban). In standard Japanese (Tokyo dialect), 'Ondo' starts low and stays relatively level, though some speakers may have a slight initial rise.

Rhymes With

Kondo (Next time) Sando (Three times) Hondo (Mainland) Undo (Exercise) Nando (How many times) Shindo (Vibration) Kendo (Japanese fencing) Gendo (Limit)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'On' like the English word 'own'. It should be a short 'o'.
Stressing the first syllable too hard.
Elongating the 'o' at the end like 'ondooo'.
Mixing up the 'n' sound with a nasal 'm'.
Pronouncing 'do' like 'du' (doo).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji are common but require learning the 'on' and 'do' readings. Easy to recognize once learned.

Writing 3/5

Writing '温' (warm) can be tricky for beginners due to the number of strokes.

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is very simple for English speakers.

Listening 1/5

The word is distinct and easy to pick out in a sentence.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

高い (Takai) 低い (Hikui) 水 (Mizu) 部屋 (Heya) 度 (Do)

Learn Next

気温 (Kion) 湿度 (Shitsudo) 体温 (Taion) 調節 (Chousetsu) 変化 (Henka)

Advanced

熱力学 (Thermodynamics) 比熱 (Specific heat) 熱伝導 (Heat conduction) 絶対零度 (Absolute zero) 恒温 (Homeostasis/Constant temperature)

Grammar to Know

Adjective + する (to make something ...)

温度を高くします。 (I will make the temperature high.)

Noun + が + Intransitive Verb

温度が上がります。 (The temperature rises.)

Noun + を + Transitive Verb

温度を上げます。 (I raise the temperature.)

Noun + の + Noun

部屋の温度 (Room temperature)

Counter 'Do' for degrees

30度 (30 degrees)

Examples by Level

温度が高いです。

The temperature is high.

Simple subject-predicate structure using the 'i-adjective' takai.

今の温度は何ですか？

What is the current temperature?

Using 'nan desu ka' to ask for information about a noun.

温度は20度です。

The temperature is 20 degrees.

'Do' is the counter for degrees.

お湯の温度をチェックします。

I will check the temperature of the hot water.

The particle 'no' links 'oyu' (hot water) and 'ondo'.

この部屋の温度はいいです。

The temperature of this room is good.

'Ii' is used to express that something is satisfactory.

温度が低いです。

The temperature is low.

The opposite of 'takai' is 'hikui'.

エアコンの温度。

Air conditioner temperature.

A simple noun phrase.

温度を教えてください。

Please tell me the temperature.

Using 'te-form + kudasai' for a polite request.

温度を上げてください。

Please raise the temperature.

Transitive verb 'ageru' indicates the speaker wants someone to change the setting.

温度を2度下げました。

I lowered the temperature by 2 degrees.

Past tense of 'sageru' (to lower).

設定温度を確認してください。

Please check the set temperature.

Compound noun 'settei ondo' (set temperature).

油の温度が上がりました。

The oil temperature has risen.

Intransitive verb 'agaru' means the temperature rose on its own.

水面の温度を測りましょう。

Let's measure the temperature of the water surface.

Volitional form 'mashou' (let's).

温度計はどこにありますか？

Where is the thermometer?

'Ondokei' is the word for thermometer.

適切な温度で保存します。

Store it at an appropriate temperature.

'Tekisetsu na' is a na-adjective meaning appropriate.

外の気温と部屋の温度。

The outside air temperature and the room temperature.

Contrasting 'kion' (weather) and 'ondo' (room).

温度の変化に注意してください。

Please pay attention to the change in temperature.

'Henka' means change; 'ni chuui' means pay attention to.

一定の温度を保つ必要があります。

It is necessary to maintain a constant temperature.

'Hitsuyou ga arimasu' means there is a necessity.

彼らの間には温度差があります。

There is a 'temperature difference' (difference in enthusiasm) between them.

Metaphorical use of 'ondo-sa'.

温度が下がると、水は氷になります。

When the temperature falls, water becomes ice.

Conditional 'to' used for natural consequences.

最適な温度を調整するのは難しいです。

Adjusting to the optimal temperature is difficult.

Nominalizing the verb phrase with 'no wa'.

この機械は温度を自動で制御します。

This machine controls the temperature automatically.

'Seigyo' means control; 'jidou de' means automatically.

冬は部屋の温度を高くします。

In winter, I make the room temperature high.

Adjective + 'suru' means to make something a certain way.

温度が高すぎると壊れます。

If the temperature is too high, it will break.

Verb stem + 'sugiru' means to do something excessively.

地球の平均温度が上昇しています。

The Earth's average temperature is rising.

'Heikin' means average; 'joushou' is a formal word for rising.

精密機器のため、温度管理が重要です。

Temperature management is important because of the precision equipment.

'Tame' expresses a reason or purpose.

反応温度を一定に維持してください。

Please maintain the reaction temperature at a constant level.

'Iji' is a formal word for maintenance.

急激な温度変化は避けるべきです。

Abrupt temperature changes should be avoided.

'Beki' indicates something that should be done.

温度センサーが故障しているようです。

It seems the temperature sensor is malfunctioning.

'You desu' expresses an appearance or likelihood.

この素材は高温に耐えられます。

This material can withstand high temperatures.

Potential form of 'taeru' (to endure).

室内温度と湿度のバランスが大切です。

The balance between indoor temperature and humidity is important.

'Shitsudo' is the word for humidity.

温度設定を誤ると品質が低下します。

If you make a mistake in the temperature setting, the quality will drop.

'Ayamaru' means to make a mistake; 'teika' means decline.

議論の温度が高まってきました。

The 'temperature' (intensity) of the discussion has risen.

Metaphorical use describing the intensity of a social situation.

温度分布をシミュレーションで解析します。

We will analyze the temperature distribution through simulation.

'Bunpu' means distribution; 'kaiseki' means analysis.

市場の温度感を探る必要があります。

It is necessary to gauge the 'temperature' (sentiment) of the market.

'Ondokan' refers to the perceived atmosphere or sentiment.

絶対温度は物理学の基本概念です。

Absolute temperature is a fundamental concept in physics.

'Zettai ondo' (absolute temperature) is a technical term.

彼は周囲との温度差に悩んでいる。

He is troubled by the 'temperature difference' (gap in perspective) with those around him.

Deeply metaphorical use regarding psychological isolation.

温度勾配が熱伝導に影響を与えます。

The temperature gradient affects heat conduction.

'Koubai' (gradient) and 'netsudendou' (heat conduction) are advanced terms.

この論文は温度依存性について述べている。

This paper discusses temperature dependence.

'Izonssei' means dependency; 'nobete iru' means stating/describing.

温度上昇を抑制するための対策を講じる。

Take measures to suppress the rise in temperature.

'Yokusei' means suppression; 'taisaku o koujiru' is a formal idiom for taking measures.

その詩は、夕暮れ時の空気の温度を繊細に描写している。

The poem delicately depicts the temperature of the air at twilight.

Literary usage where 'ondo' contributes to sensory imagery.

政治的な温度計とも言えるこの選挙は、国民の不満を浮き彫りにした。

This election, which could be called a political thermometer, highlighted the public's dissatisfaction.

Complex metaphorical extension of 'ondokei' into political science.

微細な温度ゆらぎが宇宙の構造形成に寄与した。

Minute temperature fluctuations contributed to the formation of the universe's structure.

'Yuragi' (fluctuation) is a high-level scientific term.

作品全体の温度を一定に保つことが、監督のこだわりだった。

Maintaining a constant 'temperature' (aesthetic tone) throughout the work was the director's obsession.

Applying 'ondo' to the abstract concept of artistic tone.

熱力学第二法則は、温度の不可逆的な変化を示唆している。

The second law of thermodynamics suggests an irreversible change in temperature.

Highly technical academic sentence structure.

言論の温度が過熱し、社会の分断を招いている。

The 'temperature' of public discourse has overheated, leading to social fragmentation.

Using 'ka-netsu' (overheat) metaphorically for public debate.

極限状態における温度計測の精度が、研究の成否を分ける。

The precision of temperature measurement in extreme conditions determines the success or failure of the research.

'Kyokugen joutai' (extreme state) and 'seibi o wakeru' are advanced collocations.

温度という概念そのものが、分子の運動エネルギーの反映に過ぎない。

The concept of temperature itself is nothing more than a reflection of molecular kinetic energy.

'Ni suginai' is a formal expression meaning 'nothing more than'.

Synonyms

気温体温水温熱室温

Antonyms

暑さ寒さ

Common Collocations

温度が高い

温度が低い

温度を上げる

温度を下げる

温度を測る

温度を保つ

温度調節

設定温度

温度差

温度管理

Common Phrases

温度が上がる

— The temperature rises naturally.

日が昇ると温度が上がる。

温度が下がる

— The temperature falls naturally.

夜になると温度が下がる。

適正な温度

— The proper or appropriate temperature.

適正な温度でワインを保管する。

急激な温度変化

— A sudden or sharp change in temperature.

急激な温度変化で体調を崩した。

一定の温度

— A constant or steady temperature.

一定の温度で実験を行う。

温度を確認する

— To check the temperature.

オーブンの温度を確認してください。

温度を記録する

— To record the temperature.

一時間おきに温度を記録する。

適切な温度

— The suitable or correct temperature.

適切な温度で苗を育てる。

温度計を見る

— To look at the thermometer.

温度計を見て、エアコンをつけた。

温度を下げるボタン

— The button to lower the temperature.

温度を下げるボタンはどれですか？

Often Confused With

温度 vs 気温 (Kion)

English speakers use 'temperature' for weather, but Japanese uses 'Kion'.

温度 vs 熱 (Netsu)

Use 'Netsu' for fevers, not 'Ondo'.

温度 vs 湿度 (Shitsudo)

Don't confuse temperature with humidity.

Idioms & Expressions

"温度差がある"

— Literally 'a difference in temperature,' but idiomatically used for a gap in enthusiasm or commitment between people.

夫婦の間で、教育方針に温度差がある。

Common Metaphor

"温度を測る"

— Metaphorically used to mean 'testing the waters' or gauging a situation before acting.

交渉の前に、相手の温度を測る必要がある。

Business/Formal

"温度感が違う"

— Having a different 'vibe' or sense of urgency regarding a project or idea.

チーム内でプロジェクトに対する温度感が違う。

Business/Colloquial

"空気が凍るような温度"

— A metaphorical 'freezing' temperature describing a very tense social atmosphere.

彼の発言で、部屋の温度が一気に下がった気がした。

Literary

"熱い温度で語る"

— To speak with great passion (metaphorical heat).

彼は夢について熱い温度で語った。

Informal

"温度を一定に保つ"

— Idiomatically used to mean keeping one's cool or maintaining a steady emotional state.

どんな時も心の温度を一定に保ちたい。

Philosophical

"温度設定を間違える"

— Metaphorically used when someone's reaction is inappropriate for the situation (too intense or too cold).

彼は冗談の温度設定を間違えたようだ。

Slangy/Modern

"冷めた温度"

— A 'cooled' temperature, meaning a lack of interest or a cynical attitude.

彼女は冷めた温度でそのニュースを聞いた。

Literary

"温度を上げる (Social)"

— To hype up a crowd or increase the excitement of a gathering.

DJが会場の温度を上げた。

Colloquial

"温度を共有する"

— To be on the same page or share the same level of enthusiasm.

メンバー全員で目標への温度を共有する。

Business

Easily Confused

温度 vs 気温 (Kion)

Both mean 'temperature'.

Kion is only for outdoor air. Ondo is for everything else.

今日の気温は高いが、水温（温度）は低い。

温度 vs 体温 (Taion)

Both refer to heat levels.

Taion is for bodies. Ondo is for inanimate objects.

体温計で体温を測る。

温度 vs 室温 (Shitsuon)

Both can describe a room.

Shitsuon is a specific noun for 'room temperature'. Ondo is the property of the room.

室温を一定にする。

温度 vs 熱 (Netsu)

Both relate to heat.

Netsu is the energy or a fever. Ondo is the numerical scale.

熱があるから、体温（温度）を測る。

温度 vs 湯加減 (Yukagen)

Both describe bath water.

Yukagen is the 'feel' or 'condition' of the bath water. Ondo is the degree.

お湯の温度はどう？湯加減はいい？

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] の温度は [Adjective] です。

お茶の温度は高いです。

温度を [Verb-ageru/sageru]。

温度を下げてください。

温度が [Verb-agaru/sagaru] と、[Result]。

温度が下がると、寒くなります。

温度を一定に [Verb-tamotsu/iji suru]。

温度を一定に保つことが重要です。

[Abstract Noun] の温度を測る。

市場の温度を測る。

温度分布の解析。

温度分布の解析を行う。

温度という概念の [Nuance]。

温度という概念の再定義。

微細な温度 [Noun]。

微細な温度ゆらぎ。

Word Family

Nouns

温度計 (Thermometer)

温室 (Greenhouse)

温泉 (Hot spring)

温暖化 (Global warming)

Verbs

温める (To warm something up)

温まる (To get warm)

温存する (To preserve/save)

Adjectives

温かい (Warm - for touch/feeling)

温厚な (Gentle/Warm-hearted)

温暖な (Mild/Warm climate)

熱 (Heat/Fever)

冷気 (Cold air)

湿度 (Humidity)

気圧 (Atmospheric pressure)

沸点 (Boiling point)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in both daily life and technical fields.

Common Mistakes

Using 'Ondo' for weather. → 今日の色は30度です。(Wrong) -> 今日の気温は30度です。(Right)
Japanese makes a clear distinction between air temperature (Kion) and general temperature (Ondo).
Saying 'Ondo ga atsui'. → 温度が高いです。
Temperature is a measurement, so it is 'high' or 'low', not 'hot' or 'cold'.
Using 'Ondo' for a fever. → 熱があります。
Using 'Ondo' to describe your health sounds like you are a machine.
Confusing 'Ageru' and 'Agaru'. → 温度を上げます (I raise it) vs 温度が上がります (It rises).
Mixing transitive and intransitive verbs is a common beginner error in all Japanese verbs.
Using 'Ondo' instead of 'Suion' in science. → 水温を測る。
While 'Ondo' is okay, 'Suion' is much more professional when specifically talking about water.

Tips

Pair with High/Low

Always remember that temperature is a scale. In Japanese, scales are described as 'high' or 'low', not 'hot' or 'cold'. This applies to price, height, and temperature.

The 'On' Family

If you see '温' at the start of a word, it almost always relates to warmth. Examples: Onsen (hot spring), Ondan (warm), Onshitsu (greenhouse).

Listen for 'Do'

Numbers followed by 'do' are almost always temperature or angles. Context will tell you which one it is.

Celsius Only

Japan uses Celsius. If you say '100 degrees,' people will think you are boiling, not just in a heatwave!

Oil Temperature

Recipes often say 'Abura no ondo'. For tempura, this is usually 170-180 degrees Celsius.

Using Ondo-sa

Use 'Ondo-sa' when you feel you and your partner aren't on the same page about a plan. It's a very useful social idiom.

Smartphone Weather

Check your phone's weather app. You'll see 'Kion' for the main temp, but 'Ondo' might appear in the detailed settings or for other sensors.

Body Temp

In a hospital, you'll hear 'Taion'. If you're just feeling sick at home, 'Netsu' is the word to use.

Stroke Order

The left side of '温' is the water radical. This helps you remember it relates to the warmth of water (like a bath).

Polite Requests

When asking to change the AC in a taxi or shop, 'Ondo o sagete itadakemasu ka?' is a very polite and helpful phrase.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'ON' (turning the heater ON) and 'DO' (the DEGREES it goes up). When you turn it ON, the DO (degrees) of the temperature changes.

Visual Association

Visualize a digital thermometer with the characters '温' and '度' glowing on the screen as the numbers rise.

Word Web

Thermometer Heat Cold Celsius Cooking Climate Aircon Physics

Challenge

Go around your house today and identify three things whose 'Ondo' you can change (e.g., microwave, shower, AC). Say the word 'Ondo' out loud each time.

Word Origin

Borrowed from Middle Chinese roots. '温' (on) means warm/heat, and '度' (do) means measure/degree. The compound was formalized in Japan during the modernization of the education system in the Meiji era to translate Western scientific concepts.

Original meaning: The degree of warmth.

Sino-Japanese (Kango).

Cultural Context

None. This is a neutral scientific and daily term.

In the US/UK, we often use 'hot' or 'cold' as nouns ('the heat is killing me'), but in Japan, the formal noun 'Ondo' is much more common in daily speech.

NHK Weather reports (constant use of Kion/Ondo) Japanese cooking shows (Ondo management for frying) Climate change documentaries (Chikyuu Ondanka)

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Cooking

油の温度を180度にする
お湯の温度を測る
オーブンの温度設定
適温で焼く

Home Comfort

エアコンの温度を上げる
部屋の温度が低い
温度調節ボタン
設定温度を確認する

Science/Lab

温度の変化を記録する
一定の温度を保つ
反応温度を上げる
精密な温度計

Health (Metaphorical/General)

体温を測る
お風呂の温度
飲み物の温度
温度差を感じる

Environment

地球の平均温度
温度上昇の抑制
海水温度の変化
異常な温度

Conversation Starters

"「この部屋の温度、ちょうどいいですか？」 (Is the room temperature okay?)"

"「お風呂の温度は何度が好きですか？」 (What temperature do you like your bathwater?)"

"「最近、急に温度が上がりましたね。」 (The temperature has risen suddenly lately, hasn't it?)"

"「この料理、温度が下がると美味しくないですよ。」 (This dish won't be tasty once the temperature drops.)"

"「エアコンの設定温度は何度にしていますか？」 (What do you have your air conditioner temperature set to?)"

Journal Prompts

今日の部屋の温度について書いてください。快適でしたか？ (Write about today's room temperature. Was it comfortable?)

あなたが一番好きな飲み物の理想的な温度について説明してください。 (Describe the ideal temperature for your favorite drink.)

地球温暖化（温度上昇）について、自分ができることを考えて書きましょう。 (Think about and write what you can do regarding global warming/temperature rise.)

「温度差」という言葉を使って、人間関係について書いてみてください。 (Try writing about human relationships using the word 'ondo-sa'.)

日本の夏と冬、どちらの温度が過ごしにくいですか？理由も書きましょう。 (Which temperature is harder to live in, Japan's summer or winter? Write the reason too.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically yes, but 'Kion' is much more natural and common. Use 'Kion' for the forecast.

You can say 'Heya no ondo' or the more formal 'Shitsuon'.

No, use 'Netsu'. To say 'measure body temperature,' use 'Taion o hakaru'.

The counter is 'do' (度). For example, 25度 (nijuu-go do).

No, use 'takai' (high) or 'hikui' (low). 'Ondo ga takai' is the correct way.

Literally 'temperature difference,' but usually means a difference in enthusiasm between people.

Look for the characters '温度' or '温度設定'.

Yes, 'Ondo ga hikui' means the temperature is low (it is cold).

It is a Kango word (Sino-Japanese), using the On-yomi readings.

Use 'Ondo o agete kudasai' (Please raise) or 'Ondo o sagete kudasai' (Please lower).