Translation guide
The moment or act of starting a war or armed conflict. In Japanese, this concept is expressed through specific nouns and set phrases, often used in historical, political, or military contexts.
Referring to the start of a war or large-scale conflict, often in formal or historical contexts.
The most direct and common term for the opening of hostilities or outbreak of war. Used in formal and historical contexts.
A formal, somewhat literary phrase meaning 'to open hostilities' or 'to commence war.' Often used in historical narratives.
両国はついに戦端を開いた。
The two countries finally opened hostilities.
Means 'outbreak' and is commonly used with 'war' (戦争) to mean 'outbreak of war.' Emphasizes the sudden start.
戦争の勃発
the outbreak of war
Referring to the beginning of a specific battle, attack, or military operation.
A straightforward compound meaning 'start of combat' or 'commencement of hostilities.' Used in military contexts.
戦闘開始の合図
the signal to begin combat
A common phrase meaning 'to begin an attack.' More specific than general hostilities.
敵は夜明けに攻撃を開始した。
The enemy began their attack at dawn.
Used in international law or diplomatic language to denote the formal start of armed conflict.
A formal, legalistic phrase directly translating to 'commencement of hostilities.' Used in treaties and official statements.
敵対行為の開始は国際法に違反する。
The commencement of hostilities violates international law.