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A2 noun #4,500 most common 13 min read

音量

Top 4,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 音量 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 音量 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners should recognize '音量' (onryou) as the word for 'volume' on devices like phones and TVs. You might see it on a button or a menu. At this stage, you don't need to use it in complex sentences, but you should understand simple requests like '音量を下げてください' (Please lower the volume). You might also encounter the loanword 'ボリューム' (boryuumu), which is often easier for English speakers to remember. Focus on the connection between 'sound' (oto) and 'quantity' (ryou). You will mostly use it with the adjectives 'ookii' (loud) and 'chiisai' (quiet). For example, '音量が大きい' (The volume is loud). This is a very practical word for daily life and will help you manage your environment in Japan.

At the A2 level, you should be able to actively use '音量' in a variety of daily situations. You should know the common verb pairings: '音量を上げる' (turn up) and '音量を下げる' (turn down). You should also be able to express reasons for changing the volume, such as 'うるさいから音量を下げます' (I will lower the volume because it's noisy). You will start to notice this word in public announcements on trains or in stores, reminding people to be quiet. Understanding the cultural nuance—that keeping a low 'onryou' in public is polite—is also part of the A2 journey. You can now use the word to navigate settings on your Japanese smartphone or computer confidently. You should also be able to distinguish 'onryou' from 'koe' (voice), using 'onryou' for devices and 'koe' for people.

By B1, you can use '音量' in more nuanced and professional contexts. You might use the verb '調整する' (chousei suru - to adjust) instead of just 'ageru' or 'sageru'. You can describe specific problems, like '音量のバランスが悪い' (The volume balance is bad) or '音量が不安定だ' (The volume is unstable). You are also becoming familiar with related technical terms like '音質' (sound quality) and can compare them: '音量は十分ですが、音質が低いです' (The volume is sufficient, but the quality is low). You can handle more complex social interactions, such as politely asking a neighbor to lower their volume during a late-night party, using appropriate honorifics. You also understand the metaphorical use of 'volume' in some contexts, though 'onryou' remains mostly literal.

At the B2 level, you can discuss '音量' in technical or academic terms. You might talk about '音量制限' (volume limits) in the context of health and safety or '音量調節機能' (volume control functions) when reviewing a product. You understand the nuances of sound engineering, such as '音圧' (sound pressure) and how it differs from 'onryou'. You can participate in discussions about urban noise pollution (騒音問題 - souon mondai) and the legal regulations regarding 'onryou' in residential areas. Your vocabulary includes related idioms and formal expressions. You can read manuals and technical specifications for audio equipment in Japanese without difficulty. You also recognize how 'onryou' is used in media production, such as leveling voices in a podcast or mastering a music track.

At the C1 level, you have a deep understanding of the linguistic and social implications of '音量'. You can discuss the evolution of the term and its kanji roots. You are capable of explaining the psychological effects of different 'onryou' levels on human concentration and health. In professional settings, you might lead a meeting about audio-visual setups, using 'onryou' as a precise technical parameter. You can appreciate the use of 'onryou' in literature or film criticism to describe the 'sonic atmosphere' of a work. You are also aware of regional variations or specific jargon used in the Japanese music and broadcasting industries. Your use of the word is indistinguishable from a native speaker, including the subtle choice between 'onryou', 'oto', and 'boryuumu' based on the register and audience.

At the C2 level, you possess a mastery of '音量' that allows for philosophical or highly specialized discourse. You might analyze the 'aesthetics of silence' in Japanese culture and how 'onryou' is managed to create specific emotional responses in traditional arts like Noh or Kabuki. You can write academic papers or technical white papers in Japanese regarding acoustics, sound propagation, or the sociology of noise. You understand the most obscure synonyms and historical variations of the term. You can debate the ethics of 'onryou' in public spaces from a legal and sociological perspective. Your command of the word extends to its most abstract applications, and you can use it with total precision in any given context, from a casual chat to a high-level scientific symposium.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

音量 in 30 Seconds

音量 (onryou) means 'volume' or 'loudness'.
It is used for devices like TVs, phones, and radios.
Common verbs: ageru (raise) and sageru (lower).
Common adjectives: ookii (loud) and chiisai (quiet).

The Japanese word 音量 (onryou) is a fundamental noun that translates directly to 'volume' or 'loudness' in English. It is composed of two kanji characters: 音 (oto), meaning 'sound,' and 量 (ryou), meaning 'quantity' or 'amount.' Literally, it refers to the 'quantity of sound.' This term is essential for anyone navigating daily life in Japan, from adjusting the television at home to managing audio levels in professional settings. In Japanese society, where public harmony and noise levels are culturally significant, understanding how to discuss and control volume is crucial for social etiquette.

Technical Definition: The physical magnitude or amplitude of an audio signal as perceived by the human ear, usually measured in decibels in scientific contexts, but referred to as 'level' or 'volume' in everyday speech.

テレビの音量をもう少し下げてもらえますか？ (Could you please lower the TV volume a little more?)

Historically, the term became widespread with the advent of radio and television broadcasting in the early 20th century. Before electronic amplification, people used more descriptive phrases like 'loud voice' or 'quiet sound.' With the introduction of the volume knob (つまみ), a specific noun was needed to describe the measurable output of devices. Today, you will see this word on every digital device, remote control, and audio interface in Japan. It is the standard term used in manuals, software settings, and technical specifications.

Kanji Breakdown: 音 (On/Oto): Sound, noise, or note. Often used in words like 音楽 (ongaku - music). 量 (Ryou): Quantity, mass, or amount. Used in words like 重量 (juuryou - weight) or 数量 (suuryou - quantity).

このスピーカーは音量を最大にしても音が割れない。 (Even if you maximize the volume on this speaker, the sound doesn't distort.)

In a cultural context, Japan has strict unwritten rules about 'onryou' in public spaces. On trains, it is expected that your headphone volume is low enough that others cannot hear it—a phenomenon known as 'oto-more' (sound leaking). If someone's volume is too high, they are disturbing the 'wa' (harmony). Therefore, being able to identify and use this word helps you navigate social boundaries. It is not just about the physics of sound; it is about the social impact of your presence in a shared environment.

Social Etiquette: Managing your 'onryou' in public is seen as a sign of maturity and respect for others (omoiyari). High volume in residential areas after 9 PM is generally considered rude.

深夜なので、音量に気をつけてください。 (Since it is late at night, please be careful with the volume.)

Furthermore, in the world of content creation, YouTube, and streaming, 'onryou' is a frequent topic. Creators often discuss 'onryou baransu' (volume balance) between their voice and the background music. If you are watching a Japanese livestream, you might see comments like '音量が小さいです' (The volume is low) or '音量が大きすぎます' (The volume is too high). This makes it a very active word in modern digital communication.

マイクの音量設定を確認します。 (I will check the microphone volume settings.)

To summarize, 'onryou' is the standard, formal, and most versatile word for volume in Japanese. It covers everything from the physical measurement of decibels to the everyday act of turning up the radio. Its usage is consistent across formal settings, technical manuals, and casual conversations, making it an indispensable part of your A2-level vocabulary. Whether you are asking a friend to turn down their music or adjusting the settings on your new Japanese laptop, 'onryou' is the word you will reach for every time.

Using 音量 correctly involves pairing it with the right verbs and particles. Because it is a noun representing a measurable quantity, it is frequently used with verbs of change (increase/decrease) and verbs of state (large/small). The most common verbs you will encounter are ageru (to raise) and sageru (to lower). These are transitive verbs, meaning you (the subject) are performing the action on the volume.

Basic Action Verbs: 音量を上げる (Onryou o ageru): To turn up the volume.
音量を下げる (Onryou o sageru): To turn down the volume.

好きな曲が流れたので、音量を上げた。 (Since my favorite song came on, I turned up the volume.)

When describing the state of the volume, we use the adjectives ookii (big/loud) and chiisai (small/quiet). Note that Japanese speakers do not say 'high volume' or 'low volume' as often as 'big' or 'small.' While takai (high) and hikui (low) are technically understood, they often refer to the pitch (frequency) rather than the loudness. Therefore, always stick to ookii and chiisai for loudness.

Descriptive Adjectives: 音量が大きい (Onryou ga ookii): The volume is loud.
音量が小さい (Onryou ga chiisai): The volume is quiet/low.

隣の部屋の音量が大きすぎて眠れない。 (The volume in the next room is too loud, and I can't sleep.)

In more technical or formal contexts, such as adjusting settings on a computer or a mixing board, the verb chousei suru (to adjust) is used. This is a Suru-verb that implies a precise or professional level of control. You will see this in help menus and software interfaces. Another useful verb is shiboru, which literally means 'to wring out' or 'to squeeze,' but in the context of audio, it means to turn the volume down significantly or to muffle it.

会議が始まる前に、マイクの音量を調整してください。 (Please adjust the microphone volume before the meeting starts.)

When asking someone to change the volume, the polite ~te kudasai form is standard. However, in a restaurant or public place, you might use the even more polite ~te itadakemasu ka? (Could I receive the favor of you...). For example, '音量を下げていただけますか？' (Could you please lower the volume?). Conversely, if you are at a party and want to pump up the music, you might say '音量をもっと上げて！' (Turn up the volume more!).

Advanced Verbs: 音量を絞る (Onryou o shiboru): To turn down low.
音量を調節する (Onryou o chousei suru): To adjust the volume.

夜遅いので、音量を絞って音楽を聴く。 (Since it is late at night, I turn the volume down low to listen to music.)

Finally, consider the use of the particle ni when referring to specific levels. '音量をゼロにする' (Set the volume to zero) or '音量を最大にする' (Set the volume to maximum). This structure is very common in digital settings. By mastering these verb and adjective pairings, you will be able to describe any audio situation with precision and natural-sounding Japanese.

通知の音量を最小に設定した。 (I set the notification volume to the minimum.)

In conclusion, 'onryou' is not just a word but a central point for various grammatical constructions. Whether you are using it as an object with 'o' or a subject with 'ga', the patterns are consistent. Practice these basic combinations, and you will find that communicating about sound levels becomes second nature in your Japanese journey.

You will encounter 音量 in a vast array of real-world scenarios in Japan. One of the most common places is on public transportation. Japanese trains and buses frequently play announcements regarding 'manner mode' (mobile phone etiquette). You will hear announcements like '車内では、携帯電話をマナーモードに設定し、通話はご遠慮ください。また、音量にもご注意ください' (Inside the train, please set your phone to manner mode and refrain from talking. Also, please be careful about the volume). This refers specifically to the sound coming from headphones or games.

Public Announcements: 鉄道のアナウンス (Train announcements): Often mention 'onryou' in the context of headphone leakage.
館内放送 (In-building broadcasts): At libraries or museums, asking for low volume.

ヘッドホンの音量漏れにご注意ください。 (Please be careful of volume leakage from your headphones.)

Another prime location for this word is in the world of Japanese electronics and technology. If you buy a Sony camera, a Nintendo Switch, or a Panasonic television in Japan, the settings menu will invariably have a section labeled '音量設定' (Onryou Settei - Volume Settings). In these menus, you'll see options for 'アラーム音量' (Alarm volume), 'メディア音量' (Media volume), and '操作音' (Operation sounds). Knowing this word allows you to navigate Japanese software interfaces without needing a translation app.

Digital Interfaces: 設定画面 (Settings screen): Look for the '音量' icon (usually a speaker) to adjust sound levels.
YouTube/Twitch: Viewers often comment on 'onryou' during live streams.

スマホの音量制限を解除する方法を教えてください。 (Please tell me how to disable the volume limit on my smartphone.)

In the workplace, particularly in offices or during remote meetings (Zoom/Teams), 'onryou' is a frequent topic of discussion. If a colleague is too quiet during a call, you might say 'すみません、音量が少し小さいようです' (Excuse me, it seems your volume is a bit low). Conversely, if the background music in a cafe where you are working is too loud, you might ask the staff '音量を少し下げていただくことは可能ですか？' (Is it possible to have the volume lowered a bit?).

スピーカーの音量が適切かどうか確認してください。 (Please check if the speaker volume is appropriate.)

Furthermore, at live music venues (Live Houses) or movie theaters, staff use 'onryou' when discussing the sound system. You might see signs that say '大音量にご注意' (Beware of high volume) at concerts. In movie theaters, the 'onryou' is carefully calibrated to ensure the best cinematic experience. If you ever work in the service or entertainment industry in Japan, this word will be a daily part of your vocabulary.

Entertainment Industry: ライブハウス (Live Houses): Sound engineers manage 'onryou baransu'.
映画館 (Movie theaters): Sound checks involve measuring 'onryou' levels.

この映画は音量の迫力がすごいです。 (The power of the volume in this movie is amazing.)

In summary, 'onryou' is ubiquitous. It bridges the gap between technical settings and social etiquette. Whether you are reading a warning sign, adjusting your phone, or participating in a professional meeting, you will hear and see 'onryou' everywhere. It is one of those 'invisible' words that once you learn, you realize has been surrounding you all along in the Japanese soundscape.

Learning to use 音量 correctly involves avoiding several common pitfalls that English speakers often fall into. The first and most frequent mistake is confusing 'onryou' (volume) with 'koe' (voice) or 'oto' (sound). While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Onryou' refers specifically to the *magnitude* or *level* of the sound, whereas 'oto' refers to the sound itself, and 'koe' refers specifically to human or animal vocalizations.

Mistake 1: Confusing with 'Koe': Incorrect: 彼の音量が大きい (His volume is big).
Correct: 彼の声が大きい (His voice is loud).
Explanation: Use 'koe' for people, 'onryou' for devices or general sound levels.

× 彼の音量が大きい。
○ 彼の声が大きい。 (His voice is loud.)

Another common error is using the wrong adjectives. As mentioned in the usage section, English speakers often want to say 'high volume' (takai onryou) or 'low volume' (hikui onryou). In Japanese, takai and hikui refer to pitch. If you say '音量が高い,' a Japanese person might think you are talking about a high-pitched sound rather than a loud one. Always use ookii (big) and chiisai (small).

Mistake 2: Using 'Takai/Hikui': Incorrect: 音量が高い (The volume is high).
Correct: 音量が大きい (The volume is loud/big).
Explanation: 'Takai' refers to frequency (pitch), not amplitude (loudness).

× 音量を低くしてください。
○ 音量を小さくしてください。 (Please turn down the volume.)

Thirdly, learners sometimes confuse 'onryou' with 'ongaku' (music). Because they both start with the kanji 'on' (sound), beginners might accidentally say 'ongaku o ageru' (raise the music) when they mean 'onryou o ageru.' While 'ongaku o ookiku suru' (make the music big) is acceptable, 'onryou' is the more precise term for the setting itself.

Mistake 3: Over-reliance on 'Boryuumu': While 'boryuumu' is common, using it in formal writing or technical reports can seem unprofessional. 'Onryou' is the standard for documentation and formal speech.

レポートには「ボリューム」ではなく「音量」と書きましょう。 (Let's write 'onryou' instead of 'boryuumu' in the report.)

Finally, watch out for the particle usage. When you are adjusting the volume, 'onryou' is the direct object, so use the particle o (音量を下げる). When you are describing the volume, it is the subject, so use ga (音量が大きい). Using wa is also possible for emphasis or contrast (音量はいいですが、音質が悪いです - The volume is fine, but the sound quality is bad). Misusing these particles can make your sentence sound disjointed.

By being mindful of these distinctions—choosing 'ookii' over 'takai', 'koe' for people vs. 'onryou' for devices, and using the correct particles—you will sound much more like a native speaker. These nuances are what separate an A2 learner from a truly proficient speaker. Pay attention to how Japanese people around you use these terms, and you'll quickly internalize the correct patterns.

While 音量 is the most common and versatile word for volume, there are several other terms that overlap in meaning or are used in specific contexts. Understanding these alternatives will help you refine your Japanese and choose the most appropriate word for each situation. The most obvious alternative is the katakana loanword ボリューム (boryuumu), which comes directly from the English 'volume.'

音量 vs. ボリューム (Boryuumu): 音量 (Onryou): Formal, technical, standard. Used in menus, manuals, and polite speech.
ボリューム (Boryuumu): Casual, colloquial. Also used to describe the 'quantity' of food or the 'thickness' of hair.

この定食はボリュームがあるね。 (This set meal has a lot of volume/is very filling.) Note: You cannot use '音量' here.

Another related term is サウンド (saundo). While 'onryou' is specifically about loudness, 'saundo' refers to the overall sound or audio experience. You might hear people talk about 'saundo chekku' (sound check) at a concert, which includes adjusting the 'onryou' but also the 'onshitsu' (sound quality). Speaking of 音質 (onshitsu), this is a word you should learn alongside 'onryou.' It refers to the quality, clarity, or tone of the sound.

音量 vs. 音 (Oto): 音 (Oto): The sound itself. 'Oto o chiisaku suru' (make the sound small) is a very common, slightly more casual way to say 'lower the volume' without using the noun 'onryou'.

テレビの音を小さくして。 (Make the TV sound smaller/lower the volume.)

In scientific or high-end audio contexts, you might encounter 音圧 (on-atsu), which means 'sound pressure.' This is a more technical term used by audio engineers to describe the physical force of sound waves. While 'onryou' is the perceived loudness, 'on-atsu' is the measurable pressure. Similarly, レベル (reberu) is often used in professional audio settings, such as 'nyuuryoku reberu' (input level).

Technical Terms: 音圧 (On-atsu): Sound pressure (physics/engineering).
レベル (Reberu): Level (standard in mixing and digital audio).

このプラグインで音圧を上げることができます。 (You can increase the sound pressure with this plugin.)

Finally, consider the word 騒音 (souon), which means 'noise' or 'din.' While 'onryou' is neutral (it can be good or bad), 'souon' is always negative. It refers to unwanted, loud, or disturbing sound. If the 'onryou' of your neighbor's party is too high, it becomes 'souon' to you. Distinguishing between these helps you express your feelings about the sound environment more clearly.

In conclusion, while 'onryou' will be your 'workhorse' word for volume, having these alternatives in your back pocket allows for much more nuanced communication. Whether you're adjusting a professional mixer, complaining about a noisy neighbor, or just asking a friend to turn down the TV, you now have the linguistic tools to do so effectively and naturally in Japanese.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

While the kanji for 'On' (音) looks like a sun under a stand, it actually represents a mouth with a mark inside, indicating 'sound coming out'.

Pronunciation Guide

UK on-ryoo

US on-ryoʊ

Pitch accent is usually flat (Heiban) or on the first syllable (Atamadaka) depending on regional dialect, but standard is Heiban: on-ryou.

Rhymes With

Kouryou (荒涼) Touryou (棟梁) Souryou (送料) Douryou (同僚) Houryou (豊漁) Moryou (猛烈 - partial) Geryou (下痢 - no) Onkyou (音響)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'ryou' as 'ree-oh' (it should be one syllable).
Making the 'n' too strong like an English 'n'.
Shortening the final 'ou' sound.
Confusing the pitch with 'onryou' (vengeful spirit - although the kanji are different, the reading can be similar in some contexts).
Swapping the order of 'on' and 'ryou'.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji are common but require knowing both 'on' and 'ryou'.

Writing 3/5

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

Speaking 1/5

Pronunciation is straightforward.

Listening 1/5

Very distinct sound, easy to pick out in announcements.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

音 (Sound) 大きい (Big) 小さい (Small) 上げる (To raise) 下げる (To lower)

Learn Next

音質 (Sound quality) 騒音 (Noise) 調整 (Adjustment) 設定 (Settings) 響く (To resonate)

Advanced

周波数 (Frequency) 振幅 (Amplitude) デシベル (Decibel) 音響工学 (Acoustic Engineering)

Grammar to Know

Transitive vs. Intransitive Verbs

音量を上げる (Transitive) vs 音量が上がる (Intransitive)

Adjective to Adverb Conversion

音量を大きくする (Make the volume big/loud)

Polite Requests with ~te kudasai

音量を下げてください。

Giving Reasons with ~node

うるさいので、音量を下げます。

Indicating specific points with 'ni'

音量を最大にする。

Examples by Level

音量を下げてください。

Please lower the volume.

Uses the polite request form '~te kudasai'.

音量が大きいです。

The volume is loud.

Uses the adjective 'ookii' to describe the state.

音量を上げます。

I will turn up the volume.

Uses the transitive verb 'ageru'.

音量が小さいです。

The volume is quiet.

Uses 'chiisai' for low volume.

テレビの音量。

TV volume.

A simple noun-noun connection with 'no'.

音量ボタンはどこですか？

Where is the volume button?

Uses 'doko desu ka' to ask for location.

音量をゼロにします。

I will set the volume to zero.

Uses 'ni suru' to indicate a change to a specific state.

ラジオの音量。

Radio volume.

Simple noun phrase.

うるさいので、音量を下げてください。

It's noisy, so please turn down the volume.

Uses 'node' to give a reason.

ヘッドホンの音量に注意してください。

Please be careful with the headphone volume.

Uses 'ni chuui suru' (to be careful of).

音量をもっと大きくしてもいいですか？

Is it okay to make the volume a bit louder?

Uses '~te mo ii desu ka' to ask for permission.

このパソコンは音量が小さいです。

This computer's volume is low.

Describing a characteristic of a device.

音量ボタンを押してください。

Please press the volume button.

Uses the verb 'osu' (to press).

夜は音量を小さくしましょう。

Let's keep the volume low at night.

Uses the volitional '~mashou' for a suggestion.

スマホの音量を調整しました。

I adjusted the smartphone volume.

Uses the past tense of 'chousei suru'.

音量が聞こえません。

I can't hear the volume (the sound level).

Uses the potential form 'kikoemasen'.

音量のバランスを調整する必要があります。

It is necessary to adjust the volume balance.

Uses 'hitsuyou ga aru' (there is a necessity).

隣の人のテレビの音量が気になります。

I'm bothered by the volume of the neighbor's TV.

Uses 'ki ni naru' to express being bothered/concerned.

自動で音量を調節する機能があります。

There is a function that automatically adjusts the volume.

Uses a relative clause to describe 'kinou' (function).

音量を上げすぎると、耳に悪いです。

If you turn the volume up too much, it's bad for your ears.

Uses '~sugiru' (too much) and the conditional '~to'.

会議中なので、音量を最小にしてください。

Since we are in a meeting, please set the volume to minimum.

Uses 'saishou' (minimum).

このアプリで音量を個別に設定できます。

You can set the volume individually with this app.

Uses 'kobetsu ni' (individually).

音量が急に大きくなって驚きました。

The volume suddenly got loud and I was surprised.

Uses 'kyuu ni' (suddenly) and the te-form for cause.

適切な音量で音楽を楽しんでください。

Please enjoy music at an appropriate volume.

Uses 'tekisetsu na' (appropriate).

周囲の騒音に合わせて、音量が自動で変わります。

The volume changes automatically according to the surrounding noise.

Uses 'ni awasete' (according to/in response to).

このスピーカーは、大音量でも音が歪みません。

This speaker does not distort sound even at high volumes.

Uses 'dai-onryou' (large volume) and 'yugamu' (distort).

音量制限機能をオンにすることをお勧めします。

I recommend turning on the volume limit function.

Uses 'o susume shimasu' (recommend).

動画編集で、BGMの音量を少し絞りました。

In video editing, I turned down the background music volume a bit.

Uses 'shiboru' in a technical context.

聴覚保護のため、一定の音量を超えないようにしてください。

For hearing protection, please ensure the volume does not exceed a certain level.

Uses 'youni shite kudasai' (make sure to).

ライブ会場では、音量による耳への負担が大きいです。

At live venues, the burden on the ears due to volume is significant.

Uses 'ni yoru' (due to).

音量の設定が保存されていないようです。

It seems the volume settings have not been saved.

Uses '~te inai you desu' (seems not to be).

音量を一定に保つためのコンプレッサーを使用します。

We use a compressor to keep the volume constant.

Uses 'tamotsu' (to maintain/keep).

音量の微調整が、作品のクオリティを左右します。

Fine-tuning the volume dictates the quality of the work.

Uses 'sayuu suru' (to influence/dictate).

都市部における深夜の音量トラブルが増加しています。

Volume-related troubles late at night in urban areas are increasing.

Uses 'ni okeru' (in/at).

音量の知覚は、個人の体調や環境によって異なります。

The perception of volume varies depending on an individual's physical condition and environment.

Uses 'ni yotte kotonaru' (varies depending on).

彼は、音量の変化を巧みに利用して感情を表現した。

He skillfully used changes in volume to express emotion.

Uses 'takumi ni' (skillfully).

放送基準に従い、音量を規定の範囲内に収める。

Keep the volume within the specified range in accordance with broadcasting standards.

Uses 'shitagai' (following/according to).

音量が飽和状態に達し、ノイズが発生している。

The volume has reached a saturation point, and noise is occurring.

Uses 'houwa joutai' (saturation state).

音量のフェードイン・フェードアウトを滑らかにする。

Make the volume fade-in and fade-out smooth.

Uses 'nameraka ni' (smoothly).

静寂の中に響く微かな音量が、緊張感を高める。

The faint volume echoing in the silence heightens the tension.

Uses 'kasuka na' (faint/slight).

音量の物理的属性と心理的影響の相関関係を研究する。

Study the correlation between the physical attributes of volume and psychological effects.

Uses 'soukan kankei' (correlation).

音量の増幅過程において、信号の劣化を最小限に抑える。

Minimize signal degradation during the volume amplification process.

Uses 'saishougen ni osaeru' (keep to a minimum).

現代社会における音量の氾濫は、精神的疲弊の一因である。

The flood of volume in modern society is one cause of mental exhaustion.

Uses 'hanran' (flood/overflow).

音量のダイナミックレンジを最大限に活用した録音。

A recording that makes maximum use of the dynamic range of volume.

Uses 'katsuyou shita' (utilized).

聴衆の反応を見ながら、即興で音量をコントロールする。

Control the volume through improvisation while watching the audience's reaction.

Uses 'sokkyou de' (through improvisation).

音量の極端な変動が、聴覚系に及ぼす生理的影響。

The physiological effects that extreme fluctuations in volume have on the auditory system.

Uses 'oyobosu' (to exert/have an effect).

音量の減衰率を計算し、音響設計に反映させる。

Calculate the volume attenuation rate and reflect it in the acoustic design.

Uses 'gensuiritsu' (attenuation rate).

音量というパラメーターを通じて、空間の広がりを演出する。

Produce a sense of spatial expansion through the parameter of volume.

Uses 'tsuujite' (through/via).

Common Collocations

音量を上げる

音量を下げる

音量を調節する

音量が大きい

音量が小さい

音量を絞る

音量ボタン

大音量

音量制限

音量設定

Common Phrases

音量に注意する

— To be careful/mindful of the volume level.

周囲の迷惑にならないよう、音量に注意してください。

音量をゼロにする

— To set the volume to zero (mute).

会議が始まったので音量をゼロにした。

音量を最大にする

— To set the volume to its maximum level.

パーティーで音量を最大にした。

音量を控えめにする

— To keep the volume at a modest or low level.

夜間は音量を控えめにしてください。

音量が不安定だ

— The volume level is inconsistent or fluctuating.

接続が悪くて音量が不安定だ。

音量バランス

— The balance between different sound sources.

声と音楽の音量バランスを整える。

音量を最適化する

— To optimize the volume level for the best experience.

視聴環境に合わせて音量を最適化する。

音量を一定に保つ

— To maintain a constant volume level.

この機能は音量を一定に保ちます。

音量調節つまみ

— A volume control knob.

古いラジオの音量調節つまみを回す。

音量不足

— Insufficient volume level.

会場が広すぎて、スピーカーの音量不足だ。

Often Confused With

音量 vs 声 (Koe)

Koe is for voices of living beings; Onryou is for sound magnitude in general or devices.

音量 vs 音 (Oto)

Oto is the sound itself; Onryou is the measurement of how loud that sound is.

音量 vs 音質 (Onshitsu)

Onshitsu is sound quality (clarity, bass, etc.); Onryou is just loudness.

Idioms & Expressions

"音量を絞る"

— To reduce the volume significantly, often to avoid disturbing others.

家族が寝ているので音量を絞った。

Neutral

"大音量を響かせる"

— To make a very loud sound resonate through a space.

スタジアムに大音量を響かせる。

Descriptive

"音量に耳を傾ける"

— To listen intently to the sound level (often used metaphorically for subtle sounds).

微かな音量に耳を傾ける。

Literary

"音量を爆上げする"

— Slang for turning the volume up extremely high.

好きな曲が来たから音量を爆上げした。

Slang

"音量を殺す"

— To completely silence or suppress the volume.

気配を消すために音量を殺した。

Dramatic

"音量を稼ぐ"

— To increase the perceived loudness without clipping (audio engineering jargon).

マスタリングで音量を稼ぐ。

Technical

"音量に圧倒される"

— To be overwhelmed by the sheer loudness of something.

オーケストラの音量に圧倒された。

Neutral

"音量を調整し直す"

— To re-adjust the volume after an initial setting.

マイクの位置を変えたので音量を調整し直す。

Neutral

"音量が跳ね上がる"

— For the volume to suddenly jump up to a high level.

CMに入ると音量が跳ね上がる。

Descriptive

"音量を均一にする"

— To make the volume uniform across different tracks or segments.

アルバム全体の音量を均一にする。

Technical

Easily Confused

音量 vs 音響 (Onkyou)

Both start with 'On'.

Onkyou refers to acoustics or sound systems as a whole, whereas onryou is just volume.

このホールの音響は素晴らしいが、音量が足りない。(The acoustics are great, but the volume is lacking.)

音量 vs 分量 (Bunryou)

Both end with 'Ryou'.

Bunryou is the quantity of physical items or ingredients, not sound.

砂糖の分量を量る。(Measure the quantity of sugar.)

音量 vs 音声 (Onsei)

Both start with 'On'.

Onsei refers to audio signals or voice recordings, not the loudness level.

動画の音声が途切れる。(The video's audio is cutting out.)

音量 vs 騒音 (Souon)

Both involve sound levels.

Souon is specifically 'noise' or 'disturbing sound', while onryou is neutral.

道路の騒音がひどい。(The road noise is terrible.)

音量 vs 音色 (Neiro)

Both involve sound characteristics.

Neiro is the 'tone color' or timbre, not the loudness.

ピアノの美しい音色。(The beautiful tone of the piano.)

Sentence Patterns

[Device] no onryou o [Verb].

TV no onryou o ageru.

Onryou ga [Adjective] desu.

Onryou ga ookii desu.

Onryou o [Adverb] suru.

Onryou o saishou ni suru.

Onryou ni chuui shite [Action].

Onryou ni chuui shite kudasai.

Onryou no [Noun] ga [Verb].

Onryou no baransu ga kuzureru.

Onryou toiu [Noun] ni okeru...

Onryou toiu shihyou ni okeru henka.

Onryou o [Verb]-te kudasai.

Onryou o sageru-te kudasai.

Onryou ga [Verb]-sugiru.

Onryou ga ooki-sugiru.

Word Family

Nouns

音 (Sound)

量 (Quantity)

音響 (Acoustics)

音質 (Sound quality)

分量 (Portion)

Verbs

音を出す (To make a sound)

計量する (To measure quantity)

増幅する (To amplify)

Adjectives

騒々しい (Noisy)

静かな (Quiet)

膨大な (Enormous - for quantity)

スピーカー

ヘッドホン

マイク

リモコン

オーディオ

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily life, technology, and public service announcements.

Common Mistakes

Using 'onryou ga takai' for loud volume. → 音量が大きい (onryou ga ookii).
In Japanese, volume is 'big' or 'small', not 'high' or 'low'. 'Takai' refers to pitch.
Using 'onryou' for a person's voice in casual talk. → 声が大きい (koe ga ookii).
'Onryou' is for devices/signals. 'Koe' is for the human voice.
Saying 'onryou up' as a verb. → 音量を上げる (onryou o ageru).
While 'volume up' is common in English, in Japanese you must use the verb 'ageru'.
Forgetting the particle 'o' with 'ageru/sageru'. → 音量を下げる (onryou o sageru).
Since you are acting on the volume, the object particle 'o' is necessary.
Confusing 'onryou' with 'ongaku'. → 音量を下げる (onryou o sageru).
'Ongaku' means music. You lower the 'volume', not the 'music' (usually).

Tips

Use 'ni' for Target Levels

When setting the volume to a specific point, use the particle 'ni'. Example: '音量を10に設定する' (Set volume to 10).

Headphone Leakage

In Japan, 'oto-more' (sound leaking from headphones) is considered rude. Always check your onryou in public.

Volume vs. Sound

Don't just say 'oto o ageru'. While understood, 'onryou o ageru' is more precise and sounds more adult.

Settings Menus

Look for the speaker icon in Japanese apps; it is almost always labeled '音量'.

Volume Requests

If someone is too loud, say '声を小さくしてください' (lower your voice), not 'onryou o sageru'.

Context Clues

If you hear 'onryou' and 'sageru', someone wants you to turn it down. Act quickly to be polite!

Kanji Roots

Remembering 'Ryou' (量) as 'amount' helps you learn words like 'suuryou' (quantity) later.

Festival Volume

Festivals are the only time 'dai-onryou' is socially celebrated in public streets.

The 'N' Sound

The 'n' in 'onryou' is slightly nasal. Don't let your tongue touch the roof of your mouth too hard.

Stroke Order

The stroke order for '量' is vital for it to look balanced. Start from the top and work down.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'ON' (like turning sound ON) and 'RYOU' (sounds like 'row' of speakers). You are measuring the 'ON-ROW' of sound.

Visual Association

Imagine a slider bar on a phone screen. One end is '音' (sound) and the other is '量' (how much).

Word Web

音量 (Center) 上げる下げる調節大きい小さいボタン設定

Challenge

Try to find the '音量' setting on every electronic device you own today.

Word Origin

The word is a Sino-Japanese compound (Kango). '音' (On) originates from Middle Chinese /ʔim/, and '量' (Ryou) from Middle Chinese /lɨɐŋ/.

Original meaning: The literal combination of 'sound' and 'measure/quantity'.

Japonic (Sino-Japanese vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Be careful when asking neighbors to lower their volume; use polite language like 'Sumimasen...' to avoid conflict.

In the West, high volume can be a sign of energy or excitement (e.g., loud bars). In Japan, it is more often associated with disruption.

Manner Mode announcements in Tokyo Metro. The 'Volume' setting in Nintendo games. Japanese noise complaint laws (Souon-hou).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

At home with TV

音量を下げて
音量が大きすぎる
リモコンで音量を変える
音量をミュートにする

On the train

音量漏れ
ヘッドホンの音量
音量に注意
マナーモード

In an online meeting

音量が小さいようです
音量を上げてください
マイクの音量設定
音量を確認します

At a Karaoke box

伴奏の音量
マイクの音量
音量を調節するつまみ
大音量で歌う

Using a smartphone

音量ボタン
着信音量
メディアの音量
音量制限

Conversation Starters

"テレビの音量、これで大丈夫ですか？ (Is the TV volume okay like this?)"

"最近のイヤホンは、音量が自動で調整されるんですね。 (Recent earphones automatically adjust the volume, don't they?)"

"このカフェ、ちょっと音量が大きくないですか？ (Isn't the volume in this cafe a bit high?)"

"YouTubeの音量バランスを直したいんだけど、どうすればいい？ (I want to fix the YouTube volume balance, what should I do?)"

"隣の部屋の音量が気になって、勉強に集中できません。 (I'm bothered by the volume from the next room and can't focus on studying.)"

Journal Prompts

今日、公共の場所で音量に気をつけた経験はありますか？ (Did you have an experience today where you were careful about volume in a public place?)

あなたの好きな音楽を聴くときの、理想的な音量はどれくらいですか？ (What is your ideal volume level when listening to your favorite music?)

騒音問題（音量のトラブル）について、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about noise problems/volume-related troubles?)

新しいオーディオ機器を買ったとき、最初に音量をどう設定しますか？ (When you buy new audio equipment, how do you first set the volume?)

日本の「マナーモード」と「音量」の文化について、あなたの国の文化と比較してください。 (Compare the Japanese culture of 'manner mode' and 'volume' with your own country's culture.)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Technically, you should use '声の大きさ' (koe no ookisa) for people. However, in technical settings like a podcast where a person's voice is a recorded signal, '音量' is acceptable.

Yes, they mean the same thing in the context of audio. 'ボリューム' is more casual and can also refer to food portions, while '音量' is more formal and specific to sound.

You should say '音量を上げてください' (Onryou o agete kudasai). For extra politeness, use '音量を上げていただけますか？'.

There isn't a direct opposite noun, but '消音' (shouon - mute/silence) or '静寂' (seijaku - silence) are used in opposite contexts.

It means 'large volume' or 'high volume'. It is often used to warn people about loud music or events.

They ask passengers to keep their headphone volume low so the sound doesn't leak out and bother others, which is considered bad manners.

No. 'Takai' means high-pitched. Use 'ookii' for loud volume.

It means 'volume limit'. It's a setting on phones to prevent the sound from getting too loud and damaging your hearing.

Yes, it typically appears around the N4 or N3 level, but is essential for A2 daily communication.

It is written as 音 (sound) and 量 (quantity). Practice the strokes for 量 carefully as it has many lines.