津波

• Reading: つなみ
• Romaji: tsunami
• Kanji breakdown: 津 (tsu) — harbor, port; 波 (nami) — wave
• Pronunciation: /tsɯ.na.mi/

Meaning

Tsunami; tidal wave. A series of large ocean waves caused by underwater earthquakes or volcanic eruptions.

A Japanese word that has been adopted into many world languages. Tsunamis in Japan are often triggered by offshore earthquakes. Key phrases include 津波警報 (tsunami warning) and 津波が押し寄せる (a tsunami surges in).

Examples

1. 地震の後、津波の警報が出ました。 After the earthquake, a tsunami warning was issued.
2. 海の近くに住む人は津波に注意が必要です。 People living near the ocean need to be careful about tsunamis.
3. 津波が来る前に高い場所へ逃げてください。 Before a tsunami arrives, please flee to higher ground.

Usage Guide

Context: disaster, news, safety

Tone: serious

Origin & History

Compound of 津 (harbor, port) and 波 (wave). Originally described unusual waves observed in harbors after offshore earthquakes, before the open-ocean wave itself was understood.

Cultural Context

Era: Pre-modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal