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B1 noun #6,000 most common 10 min read

空模様

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Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 空模様 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 空模様 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you can think of '空模様' (soramoyō) as a special word for 'weather' (tenki). While 'tenki' is the word you learn first, 'soramoyō' is used when you look out the window at the sky. Imagine the sky has a 'pattern' (moyō). If the pattern is dark, it might rain. In A1, you might just hear this word in simple weather reports. Just remember: Sora = Sky, Moyō = Pattern. So, 'Soramoyō' is the 'Sky Pattern.' It is a noun, so you use it like 'Soramoyō wa...' (The sky pattern is...). You don't need to use it yourself yet, but recognizing it will help you understand Japanese people talking about the weather before they go outside.

At the A2 level, you can start using '空模様' to describe what you see. You probably know 'tenki ga ii' (the weather is good). 'Soramoyō' is more specific. You use it with adjectives like 'ayashii' (suspicious/strange). When you see dark clouds, you can say 'Soramoyō ga ayashii desu ne' (The sky looks suspicious, doesn't it?). This is a very common phrase. You will also see this word in basic news reports. It's often used with 'ni naru' (to become), as in 'Soramoyō ga waruku naru' (The sky appearance becomes bad). It helps you move beyond just saying 'ame' (rain) or 'hare' (sunny) by describing the *feeling* of the sky.

At the B1 level, you should understand the nuance of 'observation' that '空模様' carries. It's not just a statement of fact (like 'it's raining'); it's a judgment based on visual evidence. You will encounter it in phrases like 'soramoyō o ki ni suru' (to be concerned about the sky's appearance). This is the level where you start using it in more complex sentences with particles like 'shidai' (depending on). For example: 'Soramoyō shidai de, kyanpu wa chūshi desu' (Depending on the appearance of the sky, the camping trip is cancelled). You are now using the word to explain the reasoning behind your decisions based on the environment.

At the B2 level, you can appreciate the metaphorical and literary uses of '空模様.' While it primarily refers to the weather, it can also describe the 'climate' or 'atmosphere' of a situation, similar to 'kumoyuki' (cloud movement). You'll see it in more formal writing, such as editorials or novels, to set a mood. You should be comfortable using it with a variety of descriptive verbs like 'ukagau' (to watch/observe) or 'nagameru' (to gaze). You also start to see it in compound-like structures where the 'moyō' part is attached to other weather words, though 'soramoyō' remains the most versatile. Your usage should reflect an understanding of the visual 'texture' of the atmosphere.

At the C1 level, '空模様' becomes a tool for nuanced expression. You can use it to describe subtle atmospheric changes or to create vivid imagery in your writing. You'll recognize it in classical-style modern literature where the sky's appearance mirrors the psychological state of a character. You should also be aware of its role in formal meteorological discussions where it might be contrasted with 'tenkō' (climate) or 'kishō' (phenomena). At this level, you understand that 'soramoyō' captures the ephemeral, changing nature of the sky, and you can use it to convey a sense of transience (mono no aware) which is central to Japanese aesthetics.

At the C2 level, you have a complete mastery of '空模様,' including its historical etymology and its place in the vast lexicon of Japanese nature-related vocabulary. You can distinguish it perfectly from archaic terms like 'sora-ai' or highly technical terms. You might use it in academic papers on Japanese culture to discuss the relationship between the Japanese people and the sky. You understand the deepest metaphorical implications—how the 'sky pattern' represents the unpredictable nature of fate or social trends. Your usage is indistinguishable from a highly educated native speaker, employing it with poetic precision in both speech and high-level literature.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

空模様 in 30 Seconds

Soramoyō means 'sky appearance' and is used to describe weather through visual observation.
It combines 'sora' (sky) and 'moyō' (pattern) to highlight the clouds and light seen above.
Commonly used in phrases like 'soramoyō ga ayashii' to say the weather looks suspicious.
It is more descriptive and visual than the general word for weather, 'tenki'.

The Japanese word 空模様 (そらもよう - soramoyō) is a beautiful and evocative noun that translates literally to "sky pattern" or "appearance of the sky." In practical everyday usage, it refers to the current state of the weather as observed by looking at the sky, often with an implication of predicting what might happen next. While the word 'weather' (天気 - tenki) is a general term, 空模様 specifically emphasizes the visual aspect—the clouds, the light, the color, and the movement—that signals whether it will stay sunny, start raining, or turn into a storm. It is a word that bridges the gap between pure observation and meteorological prediction.

Literal Meaning: The compound consists of 空 (sora), meaning 'sky,' and 模様 (moyō), meaning 'pattern' or 'design.' It suggests that the sky is a canvas with changing designs that tell a story about the atmosphere.
Predictive Nuance: Unlike 'tenki,' which just states the weather, 'soramoyō' is often used when someone is deciding whether to take an umbrella or cancel an outdoor event. It implies a sense of 'judging' the situation based on visual cues.
Metaphorical Use: In more advanced contexts, it can describe the 'atmosphere' or 'current state' of a human situation, such as a political landscape or the mood of a meeting, though this is secondary to its literal weather meaning.

怪しい空模様になってきたから、早く帰りましょう。
(Ayashii soramoyō ni natte kita kara, hayaku kaerimashō.)
The sky is starting to look suspicious (like it will rain), so let's go home early.

In Japanese culture, where the changing seasons and the nuances of nature are deeply appreciated, having a specific word for the 'look' of the sky is essential. You will hear this word in weather reports when the forecaster is describing clouds moving in, or in casual conversation between neighbors. It carries a slightly more sophisticated or descriptive tone than just saying 'the weather is bad.' It invites the listener to actually look up and see the 'pattern' for themselves.

今日の空模様はどうですか？
(Kyō no soramoyō wa dō desu ka?)
How does the sky look today? (Implies: What's the weather like?)

Historically, 'soramoyō' was vital for farmers and sailors who relied on visual patterns in the sky to plan their work. This historical weight remains in the word today, making it feel more grounded in observation than a digital weather app. When you use this word, you aren't just reporting data; you are sharing a perception of the world above you.

変わりやすい秋の空模様。
(Kawariyasui aki no soramoyō.)
The fickle appearance of the autumn sky.

Using 空模様 correctly involves understanding its role as a noun that describes a state. It is most frequently paired with adjectives that describe the visual quality of the sky or verbs that describe the act of checking or observing the weather conditions. Because it refers to the 'appearance,' it naturally fits into sentences where you are making an assessment based on what you see.

With Adjectives: Common pairings include 怪しい (ayashii - suspicious/threatening), どんよりした (donyori shita - gloomy/overcast), or 穏やかな (odayaka na - calm). These adjectives modify the 'pattern' of the sky to give a specific weather forecast.
With Verbs of Observation: Verbs like 気にする (ki ni suru - to worry about/pay attention to), 伺う (ukagau - to observe/watch), and 眺める (nagameru - to gaze at) are frequently used. You 'worry about the sky appearance' before a picnic.
Grammatical Structures: It often functions as the subject (空模様が...) or the object (空模様を...). It can also be used as a compound noun like '雨模様' (amamoyō - looking like rain), though 'soramoyō' is the broader category.

窓の外の空模様を気にしながら、仕事を続けた。
(Mado no soto no soramoyō o ki ni shinagara, shigoto o tsuzuketa.)
I continued working while worrying about the appearance of the sky outside the window.

When you want to describe a change in weather, you can use the structure '空模様が変わる' (the sky appearance changes). This is more descriptive than just saying 'the weather changed' because it implies the visual transition of clouds and light. In literary contexts, you might see '空模様をうかがう,' which means to carefully watch the sky to decide the best time to act.

明日の運動会は、空模様次第で中止になるかもしれません。
(Ashita no undōkai wa, soramoyō shidai de chūshi ni naru kamoshiremasen.)
Tomorrow's sports day might be cancelled depending on the appearance of the sky (weather conditions).

The phrase '空模様が怪しい' is perhaps the most common collocation. 'Ayashii' literally means suspicious, but here it means 'it looks like it's going to rain.' It's a very natural way to express that gut feeling you get when you see dark clouds on the horizon. Using this phrase makes your Japanese sound much more native and nuanced.

山の空模様は非常に変わりやすい。
(Yama no soramoyō wa hijō ni kawariyasui.)
The appearance of the sky in the mountains is extremely changeable.

You will encounter 空模様 in a variety of real-life scenarios in Japan. It is a staple of the weather reporting industry, but it also finds its way into literature, news, and daily conversations. Understanding where it pops up will help you recognize its register and appropriate usage.

Weather Forecasts (Kishō Yohō): Forecasters often use this word when showing satellite imagery or live camera feeds of the sky. They might say, "Let's look at the sky appearance in Tokyo right now." It sounds more professional and descriptive than just saying 'tenki.'
Casual Outdoor Planning: When groups are planning a BBQ, a hike, or a trip to the beach, someone will invariably check the window and comment on the 'soramoyō.' It's the go-to word for immediate, visual weather assessment.
Literature and Song Lyrics: Because of its poetic 'sky pattern' meaning, it is very common in J-Pop lyrics and novels. It is often used to mirror a character's internal feelings—a 'cloudy sky appearance' often signifies sadness or confusion.

現在の渋谷の空模様です。雲が広がっています。
(Genzai no Shibuya no soramoyō desu. Kumo ga hirogatte imasu.)
This is the current appearance of the sky in Shibuya. Clouds are spreading.

In the workplace, if an event is scheduled outdoors, the organizer might send an email saying, "We will decide whether to proceed based on the 'soramoyō' at 10:00 AM." This usage is very standard and polite. It shows that the decision is being made based on observable reality rather than just a potentially inaccurate forecast.

彼女の心は、移ろいやすい秋の空模様のようだった。
(Kanojo no kokoro wa, utsuroiyasui aki no soramoyō no yō datta.)
Her heart was like the ever-changing appearance of the autumn sky.

In news reports about natural disasters or typhoons, 'soramoyō' is used to describe the worsening conditions. Reporters on the ground will describe the 'threatening sky appearance' (険しい空模様 - kewashii soramoyō) to convey the severity of the situation to viewers at home. It provides a vivid mental image that 'bad weather' simply cannot match.

夕方の空模様から判断すると、夜は冷え込みそうだ。
(Yūgata no soramoyō kara handan suru to, yoru wa hiekomisō da.)
Judging from the appearance of the sky this evening, it looks like it will get cold tonight.

While 空模様 is a versatile word, learners often make a few common errors when trying to integrate it into their Japanese. The most frequent issue is overusing it or confusing it with the more general term 'tenki' (weather).

Confusing with 'Tenki': You cannot always swap 'tenki' for 'soramoyō.' For example, you wouldn't say 'soramoyō ga ii' (the sky appearance is good) to mean 'it's a nice day' as often as you would say 'tenki ga ii.' 'Soramoyō' is more about the state or look than the quality of the day.
Incorrect Adjective Pairing: Learners sometimes use 'kirei' (beautiful) with 'soramoyō.' While not grammatically wrong, 'kirei na sora' is much more natural. 'Soramoyō' usually takes adjectives related to change or weather signs, like 'ayashii' or 'fuantei' (unstable).
Mixing up with 'Amamoyō': 'Amamoyō' specifically means 'looking like rain.' If you say 'soramoyō' when it's already pouring rain, it sounds a bit odd because the 'appearance' has already become the 'reality.' Use 'soramoyō' for the lead-up or the general look.

❌ 今日の空模様はいいですね。
(Kyō no soramoyō wa ii desu ne. - Sounds slightly unnatural.)
✅ 今日はいい天気ですね。
(Kyō wa ii tenki desu ne. - Standard and natural.)

Another mistake is using 'soramoyō' to refer to indoor environments. Since 'sora' means sky, it is strictly for the outdoors. If you want to talk about the 'atmosphere' of a room, use 'fun'iki' (雰囲気). The only exception is the metaphorical use for social 'climates,' but that is an advanced usage that requires a very specific context.

急に空模様がおかしくなってきた。
(Kyū ni soramoyō ga okashiku natte kita.)
The appearance of the sky suddenly became strange/unusual.

Finally, remember that 'soramoyō' is a noun. Beginners sometimes try to use it as an adjective or a verb. Always treat it as a thing you observe or a thing that changes. 'Soramoyō suru' is incorrect; instead, use 'soramoyō ga kawaru.'

❌ 空模様している。
(Soramoyō shite iru. - Incorrect.)
✅ 空模様をうかがっている。
(Soramoyō o ukagatte iru. - Correct: Watching the sky's appearance.)

Japanese has many words for weather and the sky. Understanding the subtle differences between 空模様 and its alternatives will greatly improve your expressive range.

天気 (Tenki): The most general word for weather. It covers sun, rain, snow, etc. Use this for general statements like "The weather is nice." Use 'soramoyō' when you are looking at the sky to judge the weather.
天候 (Tenkō): A more formal and technical word for weather, often used in news or academic contexts. It refers to weather patterns over a short period. 'Soramoyō' is more visual and immediate.
雲行き (Kumoyuki): Literally "the movement of clouds." This is very similar to 'soramoyō' but focuses specifically on the clouds. It is also very commonly used metaphorically to mean "how things are developing" (e.g., in a business deal).
空合い (Sora-ai): A slightly more old-fashioned or regional version of 'soramoyō.' It means the state or look of the sky. You might encounter this in older literature.

怪しいのは空模様だけじゃない、交渉の雲行きも怪しい。
(Ayashii no wa soramoyō dake janai, kōshō no kumoyuki mo ayashii.)
It's not just the look of the sky that's suspicious; the direction of the negotiations is also looking shaky.

When choosing between these, consider your focus. If you are looking at the blue sky and feeling happy, use 'tenki.' If you are looking at dark clouds and wondering if you should take your laundry inside, use 'soramoyō.' If you are talking about the long-term climate of a region, use 'tenkō.' If you are talking about the 'vibe' of a situation, 'kumoyuki' is the most common choice.

今日の天気予報では晴れだったが、実際の空模様は今にも雨が降りそうだ。
(Kyō no tenki yohō de wa hare datta ga, jissai no soramoyō wa ima ni mo ame ga furisō da.)
The weather forecast said sunny today, but the actual appearance of the sky looks like it's about to rain any minute.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The word 'moyō' comes from 'mo' (appearance) and 'yō' (form). In the Edo period, 'soramoyō' became a common way for commoners to describe the visual signs of weather before scientific forecasting existed.

Pronunciation Guide

UK sɒrə mɒjəʊ

US sɔrə moʊjoʊ

Japanese has pitch accent rather than stress. In 'soramoyō', the pitch usually starts low on 'so' and rises on 'ra', staying relatively high through 'moyō'.

Rhymes With

Moyō (Pattern) Koyō (Employment) Doyō (Saturday) Toyō (East) Kōyō (Autumn leaves) Sōyō (General) Hōyō (Embrace) Kyōyō (Culture)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'sora' as 'soar-ah' with a heavy American 'r'.
Stressing the 'yo' too much at the end.
Failing to distinguish the long 'ō' at the end of 'moyō'.
Pronouncing 'moyō' as 'moy-oh' (like 'boy'). It should be 'mo-yo'.
Treating it as two separate words with a pause in between.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 3/5

Kanji for Sora (空) is easy, but Moyō (模様) is slightly more complex for beginners.

Writing 4/5

Writing '模様' requires practice due to the number of strokes.

Speaking 2/5

Pronunciation is straightforward once you master the Japanese 'r'.

Listening 3/5

Can be confused with 'amamoyō' or other 'moyō' compounds if not listening carefully.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

空 (Sora) 天気 (Tenki) 模様 (Moyō) 雨 (Ame) 雲 (Kumo)

Learn Next

天候 (Tenkō) 気象 (Kishō) 雲行き (Kumoyuki) 予報 (Yohō) 崩れる (Kuzureru)

Advanced

気圧 (Kiatsu) 温暖化 (Ondanka) 季節外れ (Kisetuhazure) 夕凪 (Yūnagi) 五月雨 (Samidare)

Grammar to Know

Noun + 次第 (shidai)

空模様次第で中止します。(Cancelled depending on the sky appearance.)

～てくる (te-kuru) for change

空模様が怪しくなってきた。(The sky started looking suspicious.)

～ながら (nagara) for simultaneous action

空模様を気にしながら歩く。(Walk while worrying about the sky.)

～そう (sō) for appearance

雨が降りそうな空模様だ。(It's a sky appearance that looks like rain.)

～によって (ni yotte) for cause/reason

空模様によって予定が変わる。(Plans change depending on the sky appearance.)

Examples by Level

空模様を見ます。

I look at the sky's appearance.

Basic VO sentence.

今日の空模様はどうですか？

How is the sky's appearance today?

Question with 'dō desu ka'.

空模様が明るいです。

The sky's appearance is bright.

Adjective 'akarui' modifying the noun.

変な空模様ですね。

It's a strange sky appearance, isn't it?

Adjective 'hen na' with sentence ending 'ne'.

空模様を気にします。

I care about the sky's appearance.

Verb phrase 'ki ni suru'.

きれいな空模様です。

It is a beautiful sky appearance.

Na-adjective 'kirei na'.

空模様は雨ではありません。

The sky appearance is not rain (it doesn't look like rain).

Negative 'dewa arimasen'.

窓から空模様を確認した。

I checked the sky's appearance from the window.

Past tense verb 'kakunin shita'.

空模様が怪しくなってきました。

The sky has started to look suspicious.

Structure: ~te kuru (start to/come to be).

この空模様なら、傘はいらないでしょう。

With this sky appearance, you probably won't need an umbrella.

Conditional 'nara'.

空模様を伺ってから出かけます。

I will go out after checking the sky's appearance.

Te-form followed by 'kara' (after doing...).

どんよりした空模様ですね。

It's a gloomy sky appearance, isn't it?

Onomatopoeic adjective 'donyori shita'.

午後の空模様が心配です。

I'm worried about the afternoon sky appearance.

Noun + ga shinpai (worried about...).

空模様が変わる前に帰りましょう。

Let's go home before the sky appearance changes.

Structure: ~mae ni (before...).

テレビで今の空模様を見た。

I saw the current sky appearance on TV.

Location particle 'de'.

明日の空模様はどうなるでしょうか。

I wonder what tomorrow's sky appearance will be.

Speculative 'deshō ka'.

空模様次第で、イベントの場所を変更します。

Depending on the appearance of the sky, we will change the event location.

Noun + shidai (depending on).

山の空模様は非常に変わりやすいので注意してください。

The appearance of the sky in the mountains is very changeable, so please be careful.

Reason 'node' followed by 'chūi shite kudasai'.

空模様から判断すると、雪が降るかもしれません。

Judging from the appearance of the sky, it might snow.

Phrase 'kara handan suru to' (judging from...).

昨日の荒れた空模様が嘘のように晴れている。

It's sunny as if yesterday's rough sky appearance was a lie.

Simile '~no yō ni'.

空模様を気にしながら、洗濯物を干した。

I hung out the laundry while worrying about the sky's appearance.

Simultaneous action '~nagara'.

急速に悪化する空模様に、人々は足を速めた。

The people quickened their pace at the rapidly worsening sky appearance.

Particle 'ni' indicating the cause/target of the action.

空模様を伺いつつ、出発のタイミングを計った。

While observing the sky appearance, I timed the departure.

Formal simultaneous action '~tsutsu'.

不気味な空模様が、嵐の前触れを感じさせた。

The eerie sky appearance made me feel the precursor of a storm.

Causative form 'kanjisaseru'.

経済の空模様も、今はまだ不透明なままだ。

The 'sky appearance' (climate) of the economy also remains opaque for now.

Metaphorical usage of 'soramoyō'.

刻々と変化する空模様を、カメラに収めた。

I captured the ever-changing appearance of the sky on camera.

Adverb 'kokukoku to' (moment by moment).

空模様の崩れを予測して、早めに避難した。

Predicting the breakdown of the sky appearance (weather), we evacuated early.

Noun 'kuzure' (breakdown/deterioration).

穏やかな空模様に包まれ、午後のひとときを過ごした。

Wrapped in a calm sky appearance, I spent a moment of the afternoon.

Passive structure 'tsutsumare' (being wrapped/enveloped).

空模様を伺い知ることは、古来より重要な知恵だった。

To know and understand the sky appearance has been important wisdom since ancient times.

Compound verb 'ukaishiru' (to perceive/infer).

不穏な空模様が、町全体に緊張感をもたらした。

The unsettling sky appearance brought a sense of tension to the whole town.

Adjective 'fuon na' (unsettling/threatening).

空模様の変化に敏感なのは、農家の人々だ。

It is the farmers who are sensitive to changes in the sky's appearance.

Emphasis structure '...no wa ... da'.

旅先の空模様を調べるのが、彼の日課だ。

Checking the sky appearance of his travel destinations is his daily routine.

Noun phrase 'tabisaki no soramoyō'.

移ろいゆく空模様を眺めていると、時の流れを忘れてしまう。

Gazing at the shifting appearance of the sky, one forgets the passage of time.

Verb 'utsuroiyuku' (to shift/fade away).

政界の空模様は、一晩で一変することもある。

The 'sky appearance' (climate) of the political world can change completely in a single night.

Advanced metaphorical use.

空模様に一喜一憂するのも、自然と共に生きる醍醐味だ。

Being alternately happy and sad depending on the sky's appearance is the true pleasure of living with nature.

Four-character idiom 'ikki-ichiyū' (alternating joy and grief).

不透明な空模様の中に、一筋の光が差し込んだ。

A single ray of light shone through the opaque sky appearance.

Metaphorical or literal 'opaque' (futōmei).

空模様の微細な変化を読み取る、熟練の職人の眼差し。

The gaze of a skilled craftsman who reads the subtle changes in the sky's appearance.

Adjective 'bisai na' (minute/subtle).

万葉の時代から、人々は空模様に想いを馳せてきた。

Since the Manyo era, people have let their thoughts dwell on the appearance of the sky.

Expression 'omoi o haseru' (to turn one's thoughts to).

空模様をメタファーとして、人生の機微を描き出す。

Using the sky appearance as a metaphor, it depicts the subtleties of life.

Word 'kibi' (subtleties/inner workings).

混沌とした空模様が、現代社会の閉塞感を象徴しているかのようだ。

The chaotic sky appearance seems as if it symbolizes the sense of entrapment in modern society.

Conjecture '...ka no yō da'.

天の配剤とも言うべき絶妙な空模様の下、式典は挙行された。

Under an exquisite sky appearance that could be called a dispensation from heaven, the ceremony was held.

Formal term 'ten no haizai' (heavenly arrangement).

空模様の推移を冷徹に観察し、次なる一手を探る。

To observe the transition of the sky appearance with cool detachment and search for the next move.

Adverb 'reitetsu ni' (with cool detachment).

あえかなる空模様に、滅びの美学を見出す。

In the fragile appearance of the sky, one finds the aesthetics of ruin.

Archaic adjective 'aeka naru' (fragile/delicate).

空模様という名のキャンバスに、自然が描く一期一会の芸術。

On the canvas named 'sky appearance,' nature paints a once-in-a-lifetime art piece.

Idiom 'ichigo-ichie' (once-in-a-lifetime encounter).

人心の空模様を読み解くことは、リーダーに不可欠な資質である。

Deciphering the 'sky appearance' (mood) of people's hearts is an essential quality for a leader.

Metaphorical 'jinshin no soramoyō'.

空模様の変転は、宇宙の摂理そのものを体現している。

The transformations of the sky appearance embody the very providence of the universe.

Formal word 'setsuri' (providence/natural law).

寂寥感漂う空模様が、詩人の魂を揺さぶる。

The sky appearance drifting with a sense of loneliness shakes the poet's soul.

Noun 'sekiryō-kan' (sense of loneliness/desolation).

空模様を司る神への祈りが、古（いにしえ）の地平に響き渡る。

Prayers to the god who governs the sky appearance echo across the ancient horizon.

Verb 'tsukasadoru' (to rule/govern).

Common Collocations

空模様が怪しい

空模様を伺う

空模様を気にする

空模様が変わる

空模様を眺める

不穏な空模様

穏やかな空模様

空模様次第で

怪しげな空模様

空模様を確認する

Common Phrases

雨模様

— Looking like it will rain soon. Often confused with 'soramoyō' but specifically for rain.

今日は一日中、雨模様ですね。

空模様がおかしい

— The sky looks strange or unusual. Used when the weather seems unpredictable.

なんだか空模様がおかしいぞ。

どんよりした空模様

— A heavy, gray, and overcast sky. Describes a gloomy atmosphere.

どんよりした空模様で、気分も沈む。

変わりやすい空模様

— Unstable or fickle sky appearance. Common in spring and autumn.

今日は変わりやすい空模様だから、折り畳み傘を持って行って。

今の空模様

— The current appearance of the sky. Used in live reports.

今の空模様をライブカメラで見てみましょう。

空模様が悪化する

— The sky appearance (weather) is getting worse.

夜にかけて空模様が悪化する見込みです。

空模様をチェックする

— To check the sky's appearance. Modern casual usage.

出かける前に空模様をチェックした？

空模様から察するに

— Judging from the appearance of the sky. A slightly formal way to predict.

空模様から察するに、一雨来そうだ。

不気味な空模様

— An eerie or ominous sky appearance.

不気味な空模様に、動物たちが騒ぎ出した。

空模様を見る

— To look at the sky's appearance. The most basic way to use the word.

ちょっと外の空模様を見てきて。

Often Confused With

空模様 vs 雨模様 (Amamoyō)

Specifically means 'looks like rain.' Soramoyō is the general 'sky look' (can be sunny, cloudy, etc.).

空模様 vs 天気 (Tenki)

Tenki is the general fact of weather. Soramoyō is the visual appearance/pattern of the sky.

空模様 vs 雲行き (Kumoyuki)

Kumoyuki focuses on cloud movement. Soramoyō is the whole sky (color, light, clouds).

Idioms & Expressions

"空模様をうかがう"

— To watch the sky to judge the weather, or metaphorically, to see how a situation is developing before acting.

上司の顔色の空模様をうかがう。

Can be metaphorical

"空模様が怪しい"

— Literal: The sky looks like rain. Metaphorical: A situation is starting to look bad or suspicious.

二人の関係の空模様が怪しい。

Very common

"女心と秋の空模様"

— A variation of the idiom 'A woman's heart is like the autumn sky,' meaning both are fickle and change quickly.

彼女の気持ちはまさに女心と秋の空模様だ。

Proverbial

"空模様を気にする"

— To be anxious about the weather or the 'vibe' of a situation.

彼はいつも周りの空模様を気にしている。

Common

"空模様が変わる"

— A sudden change in weather or a sudden shift in the atmosphere of a group.

彼の発言で会議の空模様が変わった。

Metaphorical

"空模様を読む"

— To read the sky (predict weather) or to read the room/situation.

ベテランの漁師は空模様を読むのがうまい。

Skill-based

"険しい空模様"

— A harsh or severe sky appearance, often used to describe a very intense storm or a very tense situation.

交渉は険しい空模様の中で行われた。

Formal/Literary

"空模様を占う"

— To forecast the weather or predict the future outcome of a situation.

今後の景気の空模様を占う。

Journalistic

"空模様に任せる"

— To leave things to the weather (fate).

あとは空模様に任せるしかない。

Resigned

"空模様と相談する"

— To decide based on the weather conditions.

空模様と相談して、行くかどうか決めよう。

Casual/Personification

Easily Confused

空模様 vs 模様 (Moyō)

Learners might think it only means 'fabric pattern.'

In 'soramoyō,' it refers to the visual state or sign of something, not just a repeating design.

この布の模様は花柄だ。 (This cloth's pattern is floral.)

空模様 vs 気配 (Kehai)

Both imply a 'sign' of something happening.

Kehai is a general 'vibe' or 'hint' (can be seen, heard, or felt). Soramoyō is strictly visual and sky-related.

雨の気配がする。 (There is a hint/sign of rain.)

空模様 vs 様子 (Yōsu)

Both mean 'appearance' or 'state.'

Yōsu is much broader and can apply to people, objects, or situations. Soramoyō is specific to the sky.

母の様子がおかしい。 (My mother's state/behavior is strange.)

空模様 vs 状態 (Jōtai)

Both refer to a 'condition.'

Jōtai is a more static, formal word for 'condition' or 'status.' Soramoyō is more dynamic and visual.

道路の状態が悪い。 (The road condition is bad.)

空模様 vs 景色 (Keshiki)

Both involve looking at the outdoors.

Keshiki is 'scenery' or 'landscape' (mountains, buildings, etc.). Soramoyō is just the sky and its weather signs.

ここからの景色は最高だ。 (The scenery from here is the best.)

Sentence Patterns

[Adjective] + 空模様ですね。

きれいな空模様ですね。

空模様が [Verb (stem)] + はじめる。

空模様が変わりはじめた。

空模様からして、[Prediction]。

空模様からして、雨は降らないだろう。

空模様を [Verb (te-form)] + 過ごす。

空模様を眺めて過ごした。

空模様に [Noun] を感じる。

空模様に秋の気配を感じる。

[Metaphorical Noun] の空模様。

二人の仲の空模様。

空模様が [Verb (passive/causative)]。

空模様に翻弄される。

空模様の [Noun] たるや、[Description]。

空模様の美しさたるや、言葉に尽くせない。

Word Family

Nouns

空 (Sora - Sky)

模様 (Moyō - Pattern)

雨模様 (Amamoyō - Looking like rain)

雪模様 (Yukimoyō - Looking like snow)

Verbs

空ける (Akeru - To empty/open)

模様替えする (Moyōgae suru - To rearrange/redecorate)

天気 (Tenki)

雲 (Kumo)

青空 (Aozora)

曇り空 (Kumorizora)

夕焼け (Yūyake)

How to Use It

frequency

Common in daily speech, very high in weather media.

Common Mistakes

Using 'soramoyō' instead of 'tenki' for 'Good weather.' → 今日はいい天気ですね。
'Soramoyō ga ii' is rare. 'Tenki ga ii' is the standard way to say the weather is nice.
Using it as a verb: 'Soramoyō shite iru.' → 空模様を伺っている。
'Soramoyō' is a noun and cannot be turned into a verb with 'suru.'
Saying 'soramoyō' when it is already raining heavily. → ひどい雨ですね。
Once it's raining hard, the 'appearance' (prediction) is over. Use 'soramoyō' for the lead-up or the general look.
Using 'soramoyō' for the 'pattern' on a shirt. → シャツの模様。
While 'moyō' means pattern, 'soramoyō' is a fixed compound only for the sky.
Confusing it with 'amamoyō' in a sunny context. → 穏やかな空模様。
'Amamoyō' can ONLY be used for rain-related appearances. 'Soramoyō' is for any weather.

Tips

Use it for Prediction

Always reach for 'soramoyō' when you are making a guess about the weather based on what you see. It makes you sound more like a native speaker who is observing the world.

Combine with Shidai

The pattern 'Soramoyō shidai de' (depending on the sky) is extremely useful for planning. 'Soramoyō shidai de ikimasu' (I'll go depending on the sky).

Learn the Adjectives

Pair it with 'ayashii' (suspicious), 'donyori' (gloomy), or 'fuantei' (unstable). These are the most natural combinations you'll hear in Japan.

Small Talk Essential

In Japan, talking about the 'soramoyō' is a safe and polite way to start a conversation with a neighbor or a shopkeeper.

Vivid Descriptions

In journals or stories, use 'soramoyō' to set the mood. A 'threatening sky appearance' immediately tells the reader that something dramatic might happen.

Watch the News

Japanese weather forecasters love this word. Watching the first 2 minutes of a morning news show will likely give you a real-life example.

Check Before You Go

If you are with Japanese friends, look out the window and say 'Soramoyō o chotto mite kuru' (I'll go check the sky for a bit). It's a very natural phrase.

Sky Design

Remember: Sora (Sky) + Moyō (Pattern/Design). The sky's design today tells you the weather!

Metaphorical Use

Try using it for a situation's 'vibe.' 'Kaigi no soramoyō ga ayashii' (The atmosphere of the meeting is looking suspicious/bad).

Not for Indoors

Never use 'soramoyō' to describe the 'pattern' of a room or the 'weather' inside. It's strictly for the big blue (or gray) sky above.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of the sky as a giant 'Sora' (Sky) blanket with a 'Moyō' (Pattern) on it. If the pattern is gray, it's rain! Sora + Moyō = Sky Pattern.

Visual Association

Imagine a fashion designer looking at the sky like it's a piece of fabric. They are checking the 'pattern' (moyō) of the 'sky' (sora) to see if it's a good design for a picnic.

Word Web

Sky Pattern Weather Clouds Prediction Observation Atmosphere Appearance

Challenge

Go to your window right now. Look at the sky and say out loud in Japanese: 'Kyō no soramoyō wa [adjective] desu ne.' Try to do this for three days in a row.

Word Origin

The word is a compound of two ancient Japanese words. 'Sora' (sky) has roots in Old Japanese, originally referring to the vast space above. 'Moyō' (pattern) originally referred to the designs on cloth or natural textures.

Original meaning: The 'texture' or 'design' of the sky.

Japonic

Cultural Context

No particular sensitivities. It is a neutral, nature-based word.

English speakers usually just say 'the weather' or 'how the sky looks.' 'Sky pattern' isn't a common phrase, so 'soramoyō' feels more poetic when translated literally.

Weathering With You (Tenki no Ko) - A movie where the 'soramoyō' is central to the plot. Manyoshu - Ancient poetry collection with many references to sky states. NHK News - The most common place to hear 'soramoyō' used professionally.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Before going out

空模様はどう？
空模様が怪しいね。
空模様を確認して。
空模様を見てから決める。

Weather Forecast

現在の空模様です。
空模様が悪化する見込みです。
荒れた空模様になります。
空模様の推移を見てみましょう。

Outdoor Events

空模様次第で中止です。
空模様が心配ですね。
空模様が持ちこたえる。
空模様が悪くなる前に。

Literature/Poetry

物悲しい空模様。
移ろう空模様。
空模様に心を映す。
果てしない空模様。

Metaphorical (Situation)

景気の空模様。
政界の空模様。
二人の仲の空模様。
雲行きと空模様。

Conversation Starters

"「今の空模様からすると、午後は雨が降りそうですね。」 (Based on the current sky appearance, it looks like it will rain in the afternoon, doesn't it?)"

"「最近、空模様が安定しませんね。傘が手放せません。」 (The sky appearance hasn't been stable lately, has it? I can't let go of my umbrella.)"

"「窓の外の空模様、すごくきれいじゃないですか？」 (Isn't the sky appearance outside the window really beautiful?)"

"「明日のキャンプ、空模様が心配で眠れませんでした。」 (I couldn't sleep because I was worried about the sky appearance for tomorrow's camping trip.)"

"「山の空模様って、どうしてあんなに変わりやすいんでしょうね。」 (I wonder why the sky appearance in the mountains is so changeable.)"

Journal Prompts

今日の空模様を詳しく描写してください。雲の形や色はどうでしたか？ (Describe today's sky appearance in detail. What were the cloud shapes and colors like?)

空模様があなたの気分にどのような影響を与えますか？ (How does the appearance of the sky affect your mood?)

「空模様が怪しい」と感じて、予定を変更した経験はありますか？ (Have you ever changed your plans because you felt the 'sky appearance was suspicious'?)

あなたが一番好きな空模様はどんなものですか？その理由も書いてください。 (What kind of sky appearance do you like the most? Write the reason as well.)

人生を空模様に例えると、今はどんな模様ですか？ (If you were to compare your life to the sky's appearance, what kind of pattern is it right now?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, you can say 'kirei na soramoyō,' but it's more common to just say 'kirei na sora.' 'Soramoyō' is typically used when you are talking about the weather conditions or changes.

It is neutral. It's used in everyday conversation, but it's also perfectly acceptable in formal news reports and literature. It's a very versatile word.

'Soramoyō' is the general appearance of the sky (could be any weather). 'Amamoyō' specifically means the sky looks like it's about to rain. Note that 'amamoyō' is sometimes used when it's already raining lightly.

Technically yes, but it's less common. People usually use 'hosizora' (starry sky) or 'yozora' (night sky). 'Soramoyō' is mostly about daytime weather observation.

In Japanese, 'ayashii' often means 'unreliable' or 'threatening' when applied to weather. It's the standard way to say the sky looks like it will turn bad soon.

No, it is strictly a noun. You cannot say 'soramoyō suru.' You must say 'soramoyō ga [verb]' or '[verb] soramoyō'.

Yes, metaphorically. You might hear 'keizai no soramoyō' (the economic climate) or 'shijō no soramoyō' (the market outlook).

It's 模様. 'Mo' (模) has the tree radical on the left. 'Yō' (様) also has the tree radical. It's a bit complex, so practice carefully!

There isn't a direct single-word opposite, but you could contrast it with 'chi' (earth) or 'tenki' (when referring to the actual weather fact vs the look).

You can, but 'tenki ga ii' is much more natural. 'Soramoyō' is better suited for descriptions like 'ayashii' (suspicious) or 'odayaka' (calm).