海流

• Reading: かいりゅう
• Romaji: kairyuu
• Kanji breakdown: 海 (kai) — sea, ocean; 流 (ryuu) — flow, current, stream
• Pronunciation: /kai.ɾjɯː/

Meaning

Ocean current. A continuous flow of seawater in a particular direction.

A noun used in geography, science, and weather contexts. Japan is significantly influenced by ocean currents — the warm 黒潮 (Kuroshio) and cold 親潮 (Oyashio) affect climate, fishing, and marine ecosystems along its coasts. Understanding 海流 is essential for discussing Japanese geography and environmental topics at the N2 level.

Examples

1. 暖かい海流のおかげで、この地域の冬は比較的穏やかだ。 Thanks to the warm ocean current, winters in this region are relatively mild.
2. 海流の変化が魚の生息域に影響を与えている。 Changes in ocean currents are affecting the habitat of fish.
3. 日本の近海には複数の海流が流れている。 Multiple ocean currents flow through the waters near Japan.

Usage Guide

Context: geography, science, weather

Tone: academic

Origin & History

From Sino-Japanese: 海 (kai, sea) + 流 (ryuu, flow/current). Literally 'sea flow' — the movement of water through the ocean.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated